The NBA Rookie of the Year award isn't just a shiny trophy—it’s a tradition steeped in excitement, a celebration of young talent, and, yes, a magnet for NBA bettors. Each year, first-year players burst onto the hardwood, aiming to make a name for themselves and solidify their spot in the league, all the while putting their hand up for the prestigious Wilt Chamberlain Trophy. And for fans and bettors alike, the Rookie of the Year race presents an irresistible puzzle to dissect.
This season is no exception. With fresh faces setting the league alight, let's explore six rookies dominating the conversation for Rookie of the Year (and why keeping an eye on betting odds might lead to smarter decisions if you’re considering placing some cash on your choice).
What Makes the Rookie of the Year Race Exciting?
Navigating the Rookie of the Year race is like picking toppings for a pizza—everyone’s got their favorite, but there’s no denying the variety is what makes it fun. Unlike the MVP award, which relies on seasoned players’ proven excellence, this award lets us celebrate potential.
For any rookie, earning this honor means stepping onto an NBA court with confidence, making an immediate impact, and overcoming challenges as they transition out of college or international leagues. That unpredictability is exactly what makes analyzing the race—and betting on it—such a thrilling experience.
Now, onto the players turning heads this season.
The Top 6 Candidates for Rookie of the Year
Here are the top six contenders for the Rookie of the Year award with NBA odds from FanDuel Sportsbook:
1. Stephon Castle — San Antonio Spurs (+400)
If you think Castle is only skating because he landed in Spurs coach Gregg Popovich’s developmental paradise, think again. Castle has been turning heads with his scoring ability despite some subpar stats (like 25.8% shooting from beyond the arc). The exciting part? He’s improving as the season goes on, making him a strong contender for Rookie of the Year honors.
2. Alexandre Sarr — Washington Wizards (+450)
Sarr isn’t just strolling onto the court with a 7-foot-1 frame and an attitude—he’s defending like a seasoned pro and doing a bit of everything on offense. Now, we won’t sugarcoat it—his sub-40% shooting could be better, but his ability to average 2.3 blocks + steals per game shows real defensive prowess. Washington’s current lack of talent is giving him plenty of minutes on the court to prove himself, and taken as a total package Sarr is emerging as the clear frontrunner in the race for rookie glory.
Pro Tip: With plenty of opportunity and flashes of brilliance, expect Sarr to remain a popular NBA betting choice throughout the season.
3. Jaylen Wells — Memphis Grizzlies (+490)
Who doesn’t love an underdog story? Thirty-eight players were drafted before Wells—a snub he seems determined to avenge. Wells is leading all rookies with 11.8 PPG and has proven himself as a reliable scorer. However, he needs to add more tools to his arsenal beyond pure scoring to make his case.
Potential Bet Alert: Wells is streaky, so keep an eye out for odds that might undervalue his potential.
4. Zach Edey — Memphis Grizzlies (+1300)
Edey is proof that size does matter in the NBA! Standing at 7’4” and weighing 305 pounds, he’s a game-changing presence in the paint. His rebounding and shot-blocking are among the best in his rookie class, but his offensive consistency (and foot speed) could use a little fine-tuning. If he steps it up there, we’re looking at a dark horse contender.
Worth Noting: Edey’s physical attributes make him a wildcard in the betting markets.
5. Zaccharie Risacher — Atlanta Hawks (+4400)
It’s rare for a No. 1 pick not to headline the Rookie of the Year race, but Risacher’s Atlanta base of operations complicates things. Playing alongside Trae Young means limited offensive opportunities, but Risacher still produces quietly, with the fourth-best scoring record among rookies. Add his defensive upside (averaging 1.3 “stocks”—steals + blocks—per game), and you can’t count him out yet.
6. Yves Missi — New Orleans Pelicans (+4400)
Missi didn’t just step into New Orleans—he stomped in. Ranking first among rookies in rebounds and third in blocks, Missi is already a defensive juggernaut. Where he lacks offensive firepower, he makes up for it with hustle. His impact may not scream “star,” but it yells “ROTY sleeper alert!”
Key Insight: Bettors shouldn’t ignore defensive excellence; it might push Missi into contention as the season progresses.
How Betting Fits into the Rookie of the Year Race
Betting on Rookie of the Year candidates offers fans a unique way to get into the action. Sportsbooks typically favor players with strong per-game stats, so monitoring minutes played, usage rates, and injuries is key to identifying the best bets.
If you’re placing a wager, consider the team dynamic. Are these rookies getting significant playing time? Are they options one or two in the offense, or are they low on the pecking order?
Lastly, remember this isn’t just about points. Look at all-around contributions and narratives. Sportswriters vote on this award, after all—they love a good story!
