Memphis Grizzlies guard Jaylen Wells claimed the top spot on this week’s Kia Rookie Ladder, surpassing teammate Zach Edey in the rankings. Wells, a second-round pick from Washington State, has stepped up big for Memphis amid a string of injuries, thriving since he was moved into the starting lineup.
Wells Maximizes Opportunity
Jaylen Wells has embraced his new starting role with style. Since Halloween, he’s boosted his scoring average to 14 points per game on 49% shooting, showcasing impressive improvement. His plus-20.2 net rating as a starter highlights his growing impact on the court. Wells was instrumental in the Grizzlies’ recent blowout victories, outperforming Edey in overall contributions.
Edey Holds Strong at No. 2
Despite losing the top spot, Zach Edey continues to shine for Memphis. Now coming off the bench, the 7’3” center has improved his defensive presence, recording seven blocks over his past four games. Edey has also upped his minutes and stats across the board, drawing praise for his dominance in the paint, with former NBA star Greg Oden recognizing his impact.
Rising Stars Across the League
The Rookie Ladder also highlights other emerging talents, like Washington’s Bub Carrington, who recently notched a double-double at just 19 years old. Also, Atlanta’s Zaccharie Risacher, who broke through with a 33-point game against the Knicks. Philadelphia’s Jared McCain made his debut on the list, taking advantage of extended minutes in Tyrese Maxey’s absence.
As rookies like Wells and Edey rise to the occasion, they bring excitement and energy to every game. Keep an eye on these young stars as they continue to leave their mark on the season.
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