The 2024-25 NBA season brims with anticipation for first-time players eyeing the Rookie of the Year award. The 2024 NBA Draft had a few unexpected outcomes, one being the selection of Zach Edey, a two-time National Player of the Year. Touted as the ninth pick, Edey landed a spot with the Memphis Grizzlies, a departure from his initial +2000 odds of joining the team.
Following the draft, Edey made an impact during the NBA Summer League and preseason games, marking him as a favorite for the top rookie. As of October 21, the DraftKings Sportsbook showed Rookie of the Year odds with Edey holding a +350 lead. Betting on this Grizzlies’ player could win a $45 total on a $10 bet.
Turning to other potential contenders, the list includes Reed Sheppard (Rockets: +700), Zaccharie Risacher (Hawks: +900), Matas Buzelis (Bulls: +1000), Stephon Castle (Spurs: +1100), Dalton Knecht (Lakers: 1100), and Alexandre Sarr (Wizards: +130). Each of these players holds the possibility of a break-out season and a shot at the prestigious award.
Though Rookie of the Year discussions would be incomplete without the mention of Bronny James, his preseason performance proved lackluster. He managed just eight points in the initial five preseason games, with a shooting rate of only 20% from 20 attempts, zero successful 3-point shots, and five turnovers.
However, James showed promising signs in his last preseason game, racking up 17 points, four rebounds, three steals, and a block. Even so, the impressive performance did not significantly improve his odds for the Rookie of the Year title. James currently stands at +25000, making him an unlikely candidate to clinch the award.
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