Analysis of the Most Outstanding NBA Rookies: First Impressions of the 2025 Class
For years, NBA experts and personnel have anticipated the potential of the 2025 draft class. With figures like Cooper Flagg at the forefront, considered one of the most promising American prospects in decades, a group packed with future All-Stars and players with immediate impact was expected. Now, with the rookies already in action, it’s time to evaluate their initial performance.
This analysis focuses on the current quality of the players, rather than long-term projections, which has generated interesting movements between draft expectations and actual performance. Several players selected in the top 10 are not on this list, while others, chosen outside the first positions, have exceeded expectations.
Note: Statistics updated as of the morning of November 12th.
10. Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen (Tie), New Orleans Pelicans
We start with a tie, as the performance of eleven players deserved to be on this list of ten. Fears and Queen, both from the Pelicans, share notable similarities. Despite being in a complicated situation in New Orleans, they have shown flashes of long-term potential. Fears already excels in the pick-and-roll, while Queen has demonstrated his ability to generate play, suggesting a promising future as an offensive hub.
9. Collin Murray-Boyles, Toronto Raptors
Murray-Boyles fits perfectly into the profile of athletic and versatile player that Toronto has cultivated. Although he is not a primary scorer and sometimes struggles with his right hand, his energy and defensive potential are notable. His 2.8 deflections per game put him in second place among rookies.
8. Sion James, Charlotte Hornets
James, a teammate of three lottery players at Duke, has made a notable impact in Charlotte. With an impressive 61% success rate on three-point shots, he has earned the trust of coach Charles Lee, playing at least 25 minutes in six consecutive games. His initial performance positions him as one of the most exciting guards for the Hornets.
7. Will Richard, Golden State Warriors
Richard, known for his performance in the Florida championship, has taken on a role as a role player for the Warriors, fulfilling smart cuts, defensive rotations, and a 44% three-point shooting accuracy. His efficiency places him at the top of the rookie class. In addition, he demonstrated his individual ability with an outstanding performance of 30 points in a game against Sacramento.
6. Cooper Flagg, Dallas Mavericks
Flagg, only 18 years old, is learning the point guard position on the fly on a team with little playmaking. Although his efficiency numbers have been inconsistent, with a low effective field goal percentage and difficulties in ball-handling, his long-term potential remains high. His averages of 15.0 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game put him in a promising position.
5. Ryan Kalkbrenner, Charlotte Hornets
Kalkbrenner, selected at the 34th position, stands out for his shooting efficiency, leading the league with an 81% field goal percentage. In addition, his ability to block shots is exceptional, positioning him as one of the best shot blockers in the league.
4. Dylan Harper, San Antonio Spurs
Harper, although injured, has shown great potential in the six games he played before his injury. His aggressiveness in getting to the basket and his control of turnovers are highlights. His connection with Wembanyama is promising, showing high efficiency in the minutes they have shared on the court.
3. Kon Knueppel, Charlotte Hornets
Knueppel is a modern player, who stands out for his ability to shoot and score three-pointers, with 3.2 three-pointers per game with 40% effectiveness. His versatility and ability to generate play make him an exciting player for the Hornets.
2. VJ Edgecombe, Philadelphia 76ers
Edgecombe has shown great potential, although his performance has been inconsistent. He stands out for his scoring ability, rebounds, and assists. His partnership with Tyrese Maxey on the court promises a bright future for the 76ers. Coach Nick Nurse highlights his athleticism and his ability to surprise.
1. Cedric Coward, Memphis Grizzlies
Coward, selected at the 11th position, has exceeded expectations with averages of 14.5 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, with 51% field goal accuracy and 40% from three-pointers. His maturity and composure, even as a rookie, have made him the best rookie of the 2025-26 season.
