The NBA Rookie of the Year (ROY) race for the 2024-25 season has begun with surprising twists and emerging contenders, upending predictions across the league. Unlike last season’s tight face-off between the highly anticipated Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren, this year’s contest has not stuck to the expected narrative. In fact, “From Underdogs to ROY Favorites” has quickly become the theme for the season, as lesser-known players capitalize on early opportunities to make their case. Names like Jaylen Wells and Tristan da Silva have surged to prominence, proving that the 2024-25 season’s rookie class is filled with surprises. From Underdogs to ROY Favorites, emerging stars showcase unexpected consistency and standout performances in the NBA.
Week 2 of the season brought out the best in these rookies, with unheralded names shaking up the rankings. While some top prospects are off to slower starts, these underdogs are redefining expectations. “From Underdogs to ROY Favorites,” let’s dive into the top five rookies standing out in the early ROY race and the impact they’ve had on their teams.
One of the most exciting stories of the early season is the rise of Orlando Magic forward Tristan da Silva. Initially seen as a role player, da Silva has quickly captured the attention of fans and analysts, showing poise and skill beyond his years. With franchise cornerstone Paolo Banchero sidelined by a torn oblique, head coach Jamahl Mosley was looking for answers in the rotation, and da Silva’s response has been nothing short of impressive.
Last week, da Silva averaged 12.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists, shooting a remarkable 53.3% from the field and a blistering 57.1% from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor and play within the offense has been invaluable to the Magic’s structure, helping them stay competitive despite their injury setbacks. While da Silva isn’t replacing Banchero’s numbers outright, his consistency and versatility are providing crucial stability in Orlando’s lineup, solidifying his position as a valuable rookie contributor.
After a 17, 5 and 2 performance, Tristan Da Silva will start for the Magic. How do you feel about this line up adjustment? #MakeitMagic pic.twitter.com/Jd1Q6Mfbgf— Orlando Magic HQ (@OMagicHQ) November 4, 2024
Phoenix Suns rookie Ryan Dunn is emerging as one of the league’s best shooting assets among newcomers. Known for his perimeter shooting, Dunn has hit 46.2% of his shots overall, with a solid 39.3% from three-point range. His shooting precision has bolstered the Suns’ spacing and offense, making him a perfect fit for the team’s system. Beyond scoring, Dunn has quickly built a reputation as a defensive presence, frequently tasked by head coach Mike Budenholzer to guard top opposing players.
Dunn’s contributions last week helped the Suns maintain an undefeated 3-0 record. The combination of his offensive and defensive skills has made him a versatile weapon for the Suns. While Dunn may not have been a high-profile draft pick, his early performances suggest that he could be a vital piece for Phoenix as they contend in the Western Conference. He exemplifies what it means to go “From Underdogs to ROY Favorites” as he carves out his role on a competitive team.
Washington Wizards rookie Alex Sarr, the No. 2 pick in the 2024 draft, has wasted no time showing why he was so highly touted. Sarr’s stat line from last week tells the story of a versatile forward who’s a force on both ends of the floor. He averaged 11.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, and an astounding 3.3 blocks per game, with his length and agility making him a defensive anchor for Washington.
Sarr’s shot-blocking ability and fluidity on the court have proven invaluable. His skillset enables him to switch onto smaller guards and provide rim protection, a rare combination that has fans and the Wizards’ coaching staff excited about his potential. If he continues on this trajectory, Sarr could become a staple in Washington’s lineup and, indeed, a top contender for the Rookie of the Year. As he goes “From Underdogs to ROY Favorites,” Sarr represents the kind of impact a rookie can have when they’re given the opportunity to shine.
Washington’s other standout rookie, Bub Carrington, has been making waves as one of the most efficient and composed point guards of the season. Standing at 6-foot-4, Carrington averaged 11.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.7 steals per game last week, showcasing his ability to run the team’s offense with a poise that belies his rookie status.
Carrington’s passing and court vision have kept the Wizards’ offense flowing smoothly, and his defensive instincts have contributed to their early success. Initially seen as a lower-profile pick, Carrington has quickly proven his worth. His emergence alongside Alex Sarr makes Washington one of the most exciting young teams to watch. With each game, Carrington is moving “From Underdogs to ROY Favorites,” positioning himself as one of the brightest prospects in this year’s ROY race.
At the top of this week’s ROY rankings is Memphis Grizzlies rookie Jaylen Wells. Drafted 39th overall, Wells has exceeded all expectations, filling in crucial roles left open by injuries to key players like Marcus Smart and Desmond Bane. In four games last week, Wells averaged 12.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, all while maintaining an impressive shooting percentage of 48.7% from the field and 39.6% from three-point range.
Jaylen Wells averages through 7 career NBA games:24.9 MPG
10.3 PPG
3.6 RPG
1.7 APG
4.4 3PA
38.7% 3PWells is 2nd in rookies in scoring. Shooting at an elite level. His point of attack defense has been special, especially for a rookie. All rookie team is becoming likely…will… pic.twitter.com/ZZ6Lz7UCS2— Jaylen Wells Muse (@JaylenWellsMuse) November 3, 2024
Beyond his shooting, Wells has embraced a defensive role, taking on challenging assignments against elite players and consistently delivering. His impact has been a revelation for Memphis, whose coach, Taylor Jenkins, has confidently elevated Wells to a starting role. For Wells, the journey “From Underdogs to ROY Favorites” has been swift but well-earned, and he is now the early frontrunner for Rookie of the Year.
This year’s NBA Rookie of the Year race has brought refreshing unpredictability to the league. The emergence of players like Jaylen Wells, Tristan da Silva, and Alex Sarr has flipped preseason expectations, reminding fans of the NBA’s constant surprises. These rookies’ early contributions are helping their teams navigate the season’s challenges, whether by filling in for injured stars or by stepping up defensively. The rise of these players from “From Underdogs to ROY Favorites” reflects the strength and depth of this year’s draft class, highlighting how quickly a young player’s career can take off with the right opportunity.
It’s always inspiring to see lesser-known rookies rise to the occasion, capturing the imagination of fans and earning respect from veteran players. The 2024-25 ROY race has revealed how dynamic the league’s rookies are this season, with players like Jaylen Wells proving that it’s not about draft position but about seizing the moment. These players have each gone “From Underdogs to ROY Favorites,” embodying resilience and grit. Their ascent in the rankings makes this season’s ROY race a compelling story of unexpected success, reminding us that in the NBA, every player has the potential to shine.
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