The 2025 NBA Draft class is turning into one of the better groups in some time. Players like Cooper Flagg, VJ Edgecombe, and Kon Knueppel have made immediate impacts for their teams in year one. But which player has been the best newcomer in the league this season?
We look to answer that question with our latest rankings of the top NBA Rookie of the Year contenders right now.
5. Dylan Harper
The San Antonio Spurs lucked out by getting the second pick in the NBA Draft, and they used the selection on talented Rutgers guard Dylan Harper. With star scorer De’Aaron Fox, 2024-25 Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle, and veteran Devin Vassell already on the roster, not much was expected of Harper this season.
However, he has forced his way into the rotation with smart ball handling, impact defense, and a strong ability to finish around the basket. He has been a notable part of a team with NBA Finals hopes, and is showing that San Antonio has another serious NBA Rookie of the Year candidate in 2026.
4. VJ Edgecombe
One of the few positives that came out of a disastrous 2024-25 season for the Philadelphia 76ers was landing the No. 3 pick in the NBA Draft. With that selection, they selected Baylor’s VJ Edgecombe. While he was viewed as a high upside project, he has made an impact immediately after his first few months in the league.
He is third among rookies in scoring (16.1 PPG) and has had 10 games with over 20 points, including 34 against the Boston Celtics in October. However, he has also been a force on defense, and his 1.6 steals per game is not just the best among rookies, but is also the fifth highest in the NBA.
3. Kon Knueppel
Most expected Charlotte Hornets first-round pick Kon Knueppel to show his shooting was NBA-ready right away. However, the Duke star has been more than just a good shooter and is leading all rookies in scoring (19.1 PPG). He is also on the verge of being the top scorer on his team, just a few months into his pro career
However, beyond his scoring, he is posting close to six boards and four assists a night. The NBA Rookie of the Year candidate is quickly showing the Hornets why they can move on from LaMelo Ball in a trade.
2. Derik Queen
Thirteenth overall pick Derik Queen may be showing that if the New Orleans Pelicans ever wanted to move on from Zion Williamson, they may have a rock-solid replacement in the frontcourt.
The Maryland standout has brought his formidable post-game to the pros and is putting up close to 13 points a game. However, he leads all rookies in rebounds (7.4 per game) and has shown the rare gift of being an outstanding facilitator from the center spot. He is currently second among rookies with 4.3 assists per game.
Queen is a multi-level threat on offense who may soon break the single-season rookie record for triple-doubles. He is currently tied with league legend Chris Paul with two.
1. Cooper Flagg
Cooper Flagg is one of the most hyped basketball prospects of the last two decades. He was the best player in high school three years ago, he was the best player in college in 2024, and it’s why he was the No. 1 pick overall in 2025. However, his learning curve over his first month with the Dallas Mavericks was steep.
However, in December, he seemingly got his feet under him and has started to look like the All-Star player scouts envisioned. He is second among all rookies in points and steals, and holds the same spot on the Mavs. He is also third in assists and fifth in rebounds among rookies. The teenager is showing why he is the current NBA Rookie of the Year favorite.
