The 2024-25 NBA Rookie of the Year (ROY) race was turned on its head when Philadelphia 76ers rookie Jared McCain was ruled out indefinitely with a torn meniscus. Up to that point, he was the runaway favorite for the award. A sensational scorer, he’s averaging 15.3 points per game, the highest in his draft class.
Unfortunately for McCain, he’s all but disqualified by his injury as he could miss the remainder of the season. However, that’s left the door open for a number of players who were beginning to be shut out for Rookie of the Year.
Jared McCain Eliminated From Rookie Of The Year Race, Who Steps Up?
Jaylen Wells
Memphis Grizzlies wing Jaylen Wells has been the steadiest performer among the rookies. His contributions may not ibe as eye-popping as others because he usually isn’t putting up big numbers. Nonetheless, his two-way presence has been key to his team’s ability to be a top-three team in the Western Conference.
In 27 games, Wells has averaged 11.4 points and 3.3 rebounds per contest while shooting 39.0 percent from downtown. His scoring average and win shares (1.3) rank third in his class. The Western Conference Rookie of the Month in November, he’s already outplayed his draft position as a second-round pick.
Jaylen Wells as a Starter this Season for the Grizzlies :
– 14.0 Points
– 49.2% FG (10.2 FGA)
– 43.3% 3PT (5.0 3PA)
– 3.8 RPG
– +81 +/-Memphis is 5-1 in those games.
The 21-Year-Old rookie has shown TONS of exciting flashes on both ends of the floor to start his career. pic.twitter.com/wCVRSm6BYy
— Grizz Lead (@Grizz_Lead) November 12, 2024
In an effort strengthen his grip on the 2024-25 Rookie of the Year award, Wells could try to increase his output. However, one of the best parts of Wells’s game is that he doesn’t try to play outside of himself. He’s not trying to be the next Klay Thompson at the expense of the team’s ball-movement.
Yves Missi
New Orleans Pelicans center Yves Missi is another rookie with an understated impact.
However, Missi’s combination of production and availability has been the most consistent among the big men in his draft class. While playing in 26 of the Pelicans’ 27 games, he’s averaging 9.2 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per contest. Over his past 10 games, he’s averaging 12.8 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game.
How can you not be romantic about basketball? 🥹
Yves Missi went from playing on dirt courts in Cameroon to a Top 3 NBA rookie. No world-class training facilities… just heart, faith & desire 💯 pic.twitter.com/44ffhlePfy
— Kicks (@kicks) December 10, 2024
Of course, his play hasn’t prevented the Pelicans from getting off to a disheartening start. Nonetheless, it’s impossible to blame their record on him. The only thing better than his athleticism, energy, and defensive impact is his story.
Zach Edey
There are a few rookies who could be in this spot. In fact, NBA.com’s rookie ladder has San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle at No. 1, but it’s difficult to overlook his inefficiency. In December, Castle has averaged 12.5 points and 4.0 assists per game but shot just 32.9 percent from the field and 23.3 percent from three.
Ultimately, the third spot comes down to Grizzlies center Zach Edey and Portland Trail Blazers center Donovan Clingan. Though both missed several games due to injury, they have a blend of efficiency and two-way impact that players like Castle do not. With that being said, Clingan has the edge on Edey defensively, but Edey outshines Clingan offensively.
🇨🇦 Represent The Canadians 🇨🇦
Zach Edey | vs. Los Angeles
13 POINTS
10 REBOUNDS
1 BLOCK pic.twitter.com/1GlxHPwHih— NBA Canada (@NBACanada) December 16, 2024
When it comes down to it, it’s difficult to split hairs. However, Edey has been just a bit more consistent with his output. In his most recent outing, he made even Los Angeles Lakers center Anthony Davis look normal.
