Zach Edey: The Giant in Memphis
At 7-feet-4 and weighing 300 pounds, Zach Edey is a towering presence on the court for the Memphis Grizzlies. Selected 9th overall in the draft, Edey has made an immediate impact, averaging 9.1 points and 7.7 rebounds in just 20.5 minutes per game. His 57.3% shooting percentage is a testament to his efficiency, especially given his limited playing time. While concerns about his foot speed and ability to guard in space persist, Edey has shown remarkable improvement, making these issues less significant. While he may not have All-NBA potential, Edey has the makings of a solid, 30-minute starter who could average close to 18 points and 10 rebounds over a full season. His presence near the basket, both offensively and defensively, is invaluable, and he is quickly becoming an essential part of the Grizzlies’ future.
Matas Buzelis: The Relentless Bull
Matas Buzelis, the 11th overall pick by the Chicago Bulls, is a player with immense potential and a relentless motor. At 6-10, Buzelis is a highly athletic wing who is continuously developing new skills, making him one of the few bright spots for the Bulls this season. He averages 6.5 points and 2.9 rebounds in just over 15 minutes per game, demonstrating his efficiency and potential as a per-minute producer. With Zach LaVine now elsewhere and the Bulls pivoting towards a new direction, Buzelis has the opportunity to make significant strides in his second year. Head coach Billy Donovan should give Buzelis more minutes, ideally around 25 per game, to fully explore his capabilities and prepare for the future. Buzelis has the talent and drive to make a significant Year 2 leap, and it would be a disservice to the team not to maximize his potential now.
Carlton "Bub" Carrington: The Youthful Star
Carlton "Bub" Carrington, the 14th overall pick by the Washington Wizards, has quickly become a key player for the team despite his young age. At just 19, Carrington has already started 39 games and is producing a well-rounded line of 9.1 points, 4 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. His 52.8% true shooting percentage may not be stunning, but it is understandable given the team’s overall struggles and the presence of many young players. Carrington’s size at 6-4, his activity on the glass, and his improving playmaking skills make him a valuable asset. Whether he is a genuine point guard or a combo guard, Carrington’s potential in the open floor is undeniable, especially with Kyle Kuzma now in Milwaukee. The Wizards should continue to provide Carrington with opportunities to grow and develop, setting the stage for a long and productive career.
Kel’el Ware: The Dynamic Youngster
Kel’el Ware, the 15th overall pick by the Miami Heat, is a player with raw but significant potential. At 7-feet tall, Ware is a lob threat with a 3-point range, making him a unique and intriguing talent. He also excels in shot-blocking and rebounding, adding to his versatility. However, Ware has not received as many minutes as he should, totaling just 783 minutes over 40 games. The Heat need to give him more playing time in the upcoming season, even if they are reluctant to play their young players. Long-term, Ware has the potential to become a special player and a valuable asset to the team. His youth and undisciplined play are areas for improvement, but with the right guidance, he could develop into a star. The Heat should prioritize Ware’s development to maximize his potential.
Yves Missi: The Defensive Force
Yves Missi, the 21st overall pick by the New Orleans Pelicans, has provided the team with a valuable center who could start for the next decade. At 6-11, Missi possesses a high motor and has averaged 8.4 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. He plays a defensive-oriented style that fits well into most lineups, and while he isn’t a prolific self-creator, he shows patience in the post and knows when to shoot or reset the offense. Whether Missi becomes a star or a solid starter like Mitchell Robinson, his mature game and workhorse mentality are a strong foundation for success. For the Pelicans, who are in need of value and a drastic organizational change, Missi is a home run pick late in the draft. His potential and consistent performance make him an essential part of the team’s future.
The Best of the Rest
While the five players mentioned above stand out, there are other rookies who deserve attention for their potential and early performances. Dalton Knecht of the Lakers is a mature bucket-getter who could flirt with a 20-point average in upcoming seasons. Ron Holland of the Pistons is a rim-pressuring youngster who is one reliable 3-point shot away from becoming a three-level scorer. Donovan Clingan of the Trail Blazers is an elite rebounder, though he needs more consistent playing time to develop his scoring. Tristan da Silva of the Magic is a high-IQ, low-mistake player who is always ready to shoot off the catch and willing to play off superior teammates. Ryan Dunn of the Suns is a formidable defensive prospect who has surprisingly developed a 3-point shot, likely ensuring a long NBA career. These players, along with Edey, Buzelis, Carrington, Ware, and Missi, are shaping the future of the NBA and are certainly names to watch.
