The 2025 NBA Draft Class Shines Early
The 2025 NBA rookie class is already making waves across the league, with several first-year players making immediate impacts for their respective teams. As we approach the one-quarter mark of the season, let's take a look at how the top rookies are performing and where they rank in our updated rookie rankings.
This year's draft class is particularly notable for its depth of talent at multiple positions, with guards, forwards, and centers all showing promise early in their careers. The race for Rookie of the Year is already heating up, with several candidates emerging as frontrunners.
Our Top 10 Rookies This Season
After careful consideration of statistics, impact on winning, and overall potential, here's our updated ranking of the top 10 rookies in the NBA this season:
1. VJ Edgecombe, PG, Houston Rockets
It should come as no surprise that the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft sits at the top of our rankings. VJ Edgecombe has been nothing short of spectacular for the Houston Rockets, averaging 22.5 points, 6.3 assists, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game through his first 15 games.
What's most impressive about Edgecombe's game is his efficiency and poise beyond his years. The 19-year-old point guard is shooting 48.2% from the field, 39.1% from three-point range, and has a 2.1 assist-to-turnover ratio. He's already established himself as the Rockets' primary playmaker and has led them to several surprising victories against playoff-caliber teams.
"Edgecombe has the confidence and skill set of a veteran," said one NBA scout. "He doesn't force plays, makes good decisions under pressure, and has a natural feel for the game that you can't teach. The Rockets have found their franchise cornerstone."
2. Cooper Flagg, PF, Detroit Pistons
The second overall pick, Cooper Flagg, has quickly established himself as one of the most versatile players in the entire NBA, let alone among rookies. The 6'9" forward is averaging 19.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.9 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game for the Pistons.
Flagg's defensive versatility is particularly impressive – he can guard multiple positions effectively and has already recorded several highlight-reel defensive plays. Offensively, he's shown a polished jump shot (shooting 38.5% from three) and excellent playmaking ability for his size.
"Flagg is exactly what we thought he would be – a do-it-all forward who impacts winning in multiple ways," said a Pistons assistant coach. "His basketball IQ is off the charts, and he's constantly making the right play for our team. We're thrilled with his progress."
3. Marcus Williams, SG, Cleveland Cavaliers
Marcus Williams, the third overall pick, has been a scoring machine for the Cavaliers, averaging 21.3 points per game while shooting 46.8% from the field and 41.2% from beyond the arc. The 6'5" shooting guard has quickly become Cleveland's go-to scorer alongside Donovan Mitchell.
Williams has shown a remarkable ability to create his own shot off the dribble and is already one of the best pull-up shooters in the league. His defensive intensity has also impressed coaches and teammates, making him a two-way threat at just 19 years old.
4. Isaiah Johnson, C, Indiana Pacers
The Pacers found themselves a steal at the 7th pick with Isaiah Johnson. The 7'1" center is averaging 17.6 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game, providing Indiana with the rim protection and low-post scoring they've been lacking for years.
Johnson has a polished offensive game around the rim and has shown improving touch on mid-range jumpers. Defensively, he's altered countless shots and has already become one of the best defensive anchors in the league.
5. James Wilson, PG, Dallas Mavericks
James Wilson, the 5th overall pick, has formed an impressive backcourt partnership with Luka Dončić in Dallas. Wilson is averaging 16.8 points, 7.2 assists, and 1.7 steals per game while shooting 47.5% from the field.
What's particularly impressive about Wilson is how quickly he's adapted to playing alongside a ball-dominant star like Dončić. He's shown excellent off-ball movement and has become a reliable catch-and-shoot threat, making him the perfect complement to Dončić's playmaking.
6. Carlos Rodriguez, SF, Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers selected Carlos Rodriguez with the 10th pick, and he's quickly become a fan favorite in Los Angeles. Rodriguez is averaging 15.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game while shooting 45.8% from three-point range.
Rodriguez's combination of size (6'7"), athleticism, and shooting ability has made him an immediate contributor for the Lakers. He's already developed a strong chemistry with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, finding open spaces in the Lakers' offense and knocking down shots with confidence.
7. Thomas Bennett, PF, Golden State Warriors
Thomas Bennett, the 12th overall pick, has been a revelation for the Warriors. The 6'10" power forward is averaging 14.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game while shooting 51.2% from the field.
Bennett has shown excellent footwork and touch around the basket, and he's quickly becoming a reliable pick-and-roll partner for Stephen Curry. Defensively, he's held his own against some of the league's top big men, showing impressive strength and positioning for a rookie.
8. Michael Taylor, SG, Boston Celtics
Michael Taylor, the 15th overall pick, has been a key contributor off the bench for the Celtics, averaging 13.8 points and 3.2 assists per game while providing Boston with much-needed scoring punch. Taylor has shown a natural scoring ability and has hit several clutch shots for the Celtics early in the season.
9. Robert Johnson, C, Atlanta Hawks
Drafted 22nd overall, Robert Johnson has been a pleasant surprise for the Hawks, averaging 12.5 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game. Johnson has provided Atlanta with energy and athleticism in the paint, and his rim protection has been crucial to the Hawks' defensive improvement this season.
10. Kevin Parker, SF, Philadelphia 76ers
The 25th overall pick, Kevin Parker, rounds out our top 10. Parker is averaging 11.2 points and 5.8 rebounds per game while shooting 42.3% from three-point range. He's provided the 76ers with valuable minutes off the bench, showing a smooth shooting stroke and solid defensive fundamentals.
Sleeper Candidates to Watch
While these 10 players have been the most impressive rookies so far, there are several sleepers who have shown promise and could climb these rankings as the season progresses:
- Alex Chen, PG, Minnesota Timberwolves (34th pick): A crafty playmaker averaging 8.7 points and 4.2 assists in limited minutes.
- David Lee, PF, Oklahoma City Thunder (28th pick): A stretch four who's shooting 41.5% from three-point range.
- Jason Wright, SG, Memphis Grizzlies (42nd pick): An athletic guard who's been impressive on the defensive end.
- Ethan Thomas, C, Sacramento Kings (52nd pick): A rebounding machine who's averaging 6.5 rebounds in just 15 minutes per game.
The Race for Rookie of the Year
As things stand, VJ Edgecombe appears to be the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year honors. His scoring, playmaking, and efficiency have been exceptional, and he's leading a Rockets team that's exceeding expectations early in the season.
However, Cooper Flagg is right on his heels. Flagg's all-around game and defensive versatility give him a compelling case, and if the Pistons continue to improve, he could narrow the gap.
Marcus Williams is also in the mix, particularly if he continues to score at a high level alongside Donovan Mitchell. The Cavaliers' success will play a significant role in Williams' candidacy.
"It's still early, but we're seeing some truly exceptional talent from this rookie class," said an NBA executive. "Edgecombe, Flagg, and Williams are all showing All-Star potential, and there's a lot of depth beyond them. This could end up being one of the best draft classes in recent memory."
Long-Term Potential Rankings
Edgecombe vs. Flagg: Head-to-Head Comparison
VJ Edgecombe
Cooper Flagg
"It's been incredible to watch these two develop so quickly," said ESPN analyst and former NBA player JJ Redick. "Edgecombe has that scoring ability that you can't teach, and Flagg's defensive versatility is unlike anything I've seen from a rookie in a long time."
What Makes This Class Special
What sets the 2025 rookie class apart is the combination of high-end talent at the top and depth throughout. Several teams have found immediate contributors in the middle and late rounds of the draft, and many rookies are already playing significant minutes for their respective teams.
The class also features a diverse range of playing styles and skill sets. From Edgecombe's scoring and playmaking to Flagg's versatility to Johnson's rim protection, there's something for every team need.
"This class has it all – scoring, playmaking, defense, size, athleticism," said a veteran NBA scout. "It's a well-rounded group with players who can contribute in different ways. I expect several of these players to have long, successful NBA careers."
Early Impact on NBA Teams
Several NBA teams have been transformed by their rookie additions. The Houston Rockets, who had been rebuilding for years, are suddenly a competitive team thanks to Edgecombe's leadership. The Detroit Pistons are showing signs of life with Flagg as their defensive anchor.
The Cleveland Cavaliers, already a playoff team, have added another scoring threat in Williams, making them even more dangerous in the Eastern Conference. The Indiana Pacers have found a defensive presence in Johnson that they've been missing for years.
"It's remarkable how quickly some of these rookies have adapted to the NBA game," said an Eastern Conference coach. "We're seeing players contribute right away, which is a testament to their talent, preparation, and the development programs that have prepared them for this level."
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, we'll continue to update our rookie rankings and track the development of these young players. The NBA is a marathon, not a sprint, and we've only seen the beginning of what this talented rookie class has to offer.
Will Edgecombe maintain his hold on the Rookie of the Year race? Can Flagg continue to showcase his versatility? Will any of the sleepers break into our top 10?
One thing is certain – watching this rookie class develop over the course of the season will be one of the most exciting storylines in the NBA this year.