Analyzing Rookie Performances: A Look at the 2024-2025 Basketball Draft Class

Here’s how the rookie class is performing and what to look forward to.

Last week, we looked at the top-five picks from the 2024 draft, alongside two top-performing rookies for the first half of the season. In this article, we will continue our analysis with eight more standout performers from the 2024 rookie class.

Kel’el Ware

Kel’el Ware had a rocky start to the season, struggling due to injuries early on. Upon returning from a nine-game absence in late December, he averaged 10.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in 18.4 minutes per game over 16 games. His return sparked interest as he earned his first start on January 21, scoring 20 points and grabbing 15 rebounds against the Trail Blazers despite the loss. Ware is anticipated to receive significant playing time moving forward.

Ryan Dunn

Ryan Dunn began as a substitute but quickly established himself, earning a spot in the starting lineup during the season. Averaging 7.1 points and 3.0 rebounds in 22.1 minutes per game over a stretch of starts in mid-November, he has returned to the starting role recently and is expected to maintain it.

Carlton Carrington

Starting in most games early in the season yielded 10.4 points, 4.4 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 1.2 steals in 30.3 minutes of play. Carrington’s potential as a primary ball-handler is evident, with his assist numbers reflecting his capability as a distributor, although his recent return to the bench raises questions about future opportunities.

Kyshawn George

Kyshawn George has a mixed performance record, averaging 7.4 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.2 assists while showing promise as a starter with solid numbers in assists and rebounds in recent games. His future performance could hinge on the opportunities presented by adjacent roster changes.

Isaiah Collier

Collier started slowly but has thrived in the spotlight from injuries in the Jazz’s lineup. Currently, he averages 10.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 8.2 assists over the last portion of the season.

Donovan Clingan

Clingan’s contributions have increased despite early injury setbacks, showcasing his double-digit rebounding in several recent games and seeking further development opportunities.

Dalton Knecht

Knecht’s initial performances were electrifying and could see him gain more starting opportunities to influence the scoring significantly as the season progresses.

Jaylen Wells

Wells transitioned from a bench role into a starting position, adapting well with averages reflecting his potential as a valuable team player. His growth trajectory suggests he will continue to enhance his contribution to the Grizzlies.

In conclusion, these rookies show tremendous promise, and their ongoing development will be crucial in defining their teams’ future successes.