10 Leading Candidates For 2023-24 Rookie Of The Year Award

2023-24 Statistics: 19.0 PPG, 11.0 RPG, 2.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 3.0 BPG

Victor Wembanyama emerges as the frontrunner for the 2023-24 NBA Rookie of the Year, boasting impressive statistics of 19.0 points, 11.0 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.3 steals, and 3.0 blocks per game although he is not that far off from the second-place candidate. The French sensation's dominance on both ends of the court is evident, despite the San Antonio Spurs' challenging 4-22 record.

While the team struggles, Wembanyama's potential shines through, exemplified by his consistent double-doubles and formidable shot-blocking prowess. With room for improvement in his shooting (28.1% from 3-PT FG) and a relatively light physique at 209 lbs, the 7-foot phenom is poised to ascend to the ranks of the world's top players, making him a captivating contender for Rookie of the Year honors. Keep a close eye on Wembanyama's promising trajectory as he evolves on the court because he is the real deal and will only get better with time.

2. Chet Holmgren

2023-24 Statistics: 16.9 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 2.8 BPG

Chet Holmgren, making his rookie debut in the 2023-24 NBA season after recovering from a foot injury last year, is rapidly gaining ground as a formidable contender for the Rookie of the Year title and is right on the heels of Victor Wembanyama. The 7'1" center's impressive statistics include 16.9 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 0.8 steals, and 2.8 blocks per game have greatly helped the team on the court.

Despite his thin physique at 195 lbs, Holmgren's athleticism is evident, allowing him to soar for crucial shot blocks. What sets him apart is his efficient three-point shooting at 37.3%, a promising sign for the Oklahoma City Thunder, who are experiencing success on the court with an impressive 17-8 record which is good for second in the Western Conference. Teaming up with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributes to Holmgren's impact, and the bright future in Oklahoma City signals that this rookie is one to watch as the season unfolds.

3. Jaime Jaquez Jr.

2023-24 Statistics: 12.9 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Jaime Jaquez Jr., the No. 18 overall pick in the 2023 Draft, has defied expectations and become a surprising standout for the Miami Heat in the 2023-24 NBA season. Currently averaging 12.9 points per game, Jaquez Jr. has seamlessly integrated into the Heat's system. Impressively, he ranks as the team's fourth-highest scorer, shooting an efficient 50.5% from the field and 37.3% from three.

Known for his consistent scoring and impactful contributions on fast breaks, Jaquez Jr. embodies the competitive ethos of the Miami culture. With the Heat boasting a commendable 16-12 record, the rookie's unexpected impact has played a significant role in positioning the team as a legitimate contender in the league. Keep an eye on Jaquez Jr. as he continues to exceed expectations and shape the Heat's goal of remaining a title contender despite the loss of last year’s starting backcourt and the failure to acquire Damian Lillard.

4. Dereck Lively II

2023-24 Statistics: 8.9 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 1.1 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.6 BPG

Dereck Lively II, the 7'1" force in the paint for the Dallas Mavericks, has emerged as a crucial enforcer and shot-blocker in the 2023-24 NBA season. With statistics of 8.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, and an imposing 1.6 blocks per game, Lively II has seamlessly filled the Mavericks' longstanding need for a defensive presence. Weighing in at 230 lbs, he brings a physicality that complements well with stars like Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.

Active on the boards and boasting an impressive 73.4% field goal shooting, Lively II has quickly adapted to his role and maximized his impact. As the No. 12 overall pick, his contributions have surpassed expectations, providing the Mavericks with a defensive anchor they've been seeking for seasons. Watch for Lively II's continued surprises as he solidifies his place in the league as a budding center who loves to battle inside.

5. Brandon Miller

2023-24 Statistics: 15.0 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 2.2 SPG, 0.7 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Brandon Miller, the highly touted No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, is living up to the heavy expectations accompanying his arrival. With notable statistics of 15.0 points per game, Miller has showcased his scoring prowess and defensive instincts. While stepping out of the shadow of Victor Wembanyama, the rookie has proven to be a promising long-term talent for the Charlotte Hornets, forming a dynamic duo alongside LaMelo Ball. In many ways, the Hornets have two of their starting spots solidified for the next decade.

Despite the team's rebuilding phase and a challenging 7-19 record, Miller's efficiency stands out, shooting an impressive 38.2% from three-point range and maintaining an 80.4% free-throw accuracy. At only 21 years old, Miller has ample time to further develop his skills and make a lasting impact as the Hornets aim to maximize the potential of their Ball-Miller pairing.

6. Ausar Thompson

2023-24 Statistics: 10.0 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Ausar Thompson is making a significant impact in the 2023-24 NBA season, showcasing a level of performance that outshines his brother, Amen. Standing at 6'7" and weighing 215 lbs, Thompson brings an impressive combination of athleticism and defensive prowess to the court. With statistics of 10.0 points, 8.1 rebounds,0.9 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game, he has emerged as a bright spot for the struggling Detroit Pistons, who currently hold the league's worst record with only two wins.

Thompson's active presence in shot-blocking, passing lanes, and rebounding highlights his versatility on the floor. Although he faces a challenge in improving his three-point shooting (15.3%), the young forward's trajectory suggests that he is navigating the NBA landscape with promise, offering hope for future development as he continues to make his mark on the league with an improved offensive game to come next.

7. Keyonte George

2023-24 Statistics: 10.9 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 5.0 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Keyonte George is living up to the pre-season hype, showcasing his versatile skills in the 2023-24 NBA season. As a 6'4" guard for the Utah Jazz, George is making his mark with statistics of 10.9 points, 3.0 rebounds, and an impressive 5.0 assists per game. Recognized for his scoring ability, playmaking, and agility on the court, George is illustrating why he was regarded as a player with immense potential.

While demonstrating signs of becoming a reliable shooter, his three-point shooting, currently at 32.0%, is an area for improvement, especially considering his average of 5.1 three-point attempts per game. With a commitment from the Jazz, reflected in his significant playing time (25.8 MPG), George is being allowed to prove his worth and potentially solidify his role as a starting guard for the franchise's future.

8. Scoot Henderson

2023-24 Statistics: 11.1 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 4.4 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Scoot Henderson's rookie campaign has seen him face some challenges, deviating slightly from the high expectations set for him as the second-best prospect behind Victor Wembanyama in the 2023 NBA Draft Class. Despite a stint in the G-League to gain valuable playing time and NBA-level conditioning, Henderson has appeared in 17 games for the Portland Trail Blazers, averaging 11.1 points and 4.4 assists per game.

The 19-year-old point guard, with his impressive athleticism and raw talent, is still poised to become the Trail Blazers' long-term starter. Drawing parallels to a young Russell Westbrook, Henderson's struggles from beyond the arc (23.5%) are seen as part of the learning curve, as he works diligently to maximize his natural physical gifts. While facing initial hurdles, Henderson's potential remains an intriguing storyline to watch as he develops into a key player for the Trail Blazers.

9. Jordan Hawkins

2023-24 Statistics: 10.9 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 1.5 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.0 BPG

Jordan Hawkins, the No. 14 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, is making a positive impact for the New Orleans Pelicans in his rookie season. As a 6'5" shooting guard, Hawkins has shown confidence on the offensive end, averaging 10.9 points per game. Notably, he's been efficient from beyond the arc, shooting an impressive 35.6% from three-point range.

With significant playing time, averaging 24.3 minutes per game in 26 appearances (including 9 starts), Hawkins is gaining valuable experience under the guidance of coach Willie Green. As one of the promising prospects for the Pelicans, Hawkins adds to the optimism surrounding the team's future. It will be very interesting to see how Green organizes his depth chart because there can only be so many young promising players at one time.

10. Bilal Coulibaly

2023-24 Statistics: 9.4 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Bilal Coulibaly, the highly scouted No. 7 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, is making a substantial impact in his rookie season. Hailing from France, the 19-year-old wing player is showcasing his versatility with statistics of 9.4 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks per game. Coulibaly's standout attribute is his sharpshooting ability, hitting an impressive 41.6% from beyond the arc while attempting 3.6 three-pointers per game on average.

Utilizing his 6'6" size effectively, he also contributes to the boards, crashing them with authority. Although raw, Coulibaly's potential as a two-way wing player in the modern NBA is evident, especially given his defensive efforts with 1.0 steals and 0.7 blocks per game. As he continues to develop, Coulibaly could evolve into a valuable NBA starter because he is having a strong season with the Washington Wizards.