Evaluating the Impact of the 2024–25 NBA Rookie Class

By Lorenzo Blackston

2024 NBA Draft First Round Picks: https://www.si.com/nba/draft/newsfeed/2024-nba-draft-grading-all-30-first-round-picks-01j1bwtppc79

As the 2024–25 NBA season comes to a close, this year’s rookies are beginning to make their mark. Some stepped in with immediate impact, while others showed flashes of future stardom. Whether filling key roles or building toward something bigger, these first-year players gave fans and franchises hope. Here's a look at some of the most promising rookies from this year’s class — and what they bring moving forward.

Zaccharie Risacher – Atlanta Hawks The No. 1 overall pick lived up to the hype, bringing smooth scoring and strong defense to a Hawks team in transition. Risacher averaged 13.8 points , 4.6 rebounds , and shot 36.7% from deep , showing poise beyond his years on both ends of the floor. His ability to space the floor and guard wings gives Atlanta a much-needed building block. Grade: A- Future Outlook: Risacher projects as a cornerstone two-way wing who can anchor the perimeter on both ends for years to come.

Zach Edey – Memphis Grizzlies Edey’s size was never in question — but his adaptability surprised critics. The 7’4” big man averaged 9.2 points , 8.3 rebounds , and 1.3 blocks , even knocking down the occasional three. His feel for the game and touch around the rim gave Memphis a stable interior presence amid injuries. Grade: B+ Future Outlook: Edey looks like a future defensive anchor and rebounding force who can complement Jaren Jackson Jr. in the frontcourt rotation.

Dalton Knect–Los Angeles Lakers

As a rookie, Knect proved to be a reliable scorer and shooter off the bench. In 78 games, he averaged 9.1 points in 19.2 minutes, shooting 46.1% from the field and 37.6% from three. While not a major rebounder or playmaker, his floor spacing and shooting made him a valuable bench contributor. Defensively, he showed hustle and smart positioning.

Grade: B+/A-

Future Outlook: Knect projects as a dependable role player who can stretch defenses and provide steady scoring as he develops in the Lakers’ rotation.

Stephon Castle – San Antonio Spurs Castle meshed perfectly with Victor Wembanyama, bringing energy and two-way toughness to San Antonio’s backcourt. He averaged 14.7 points , 4.1 assists , and 3.7 rebounds , handling the ball well and defending multiple positions. A late-season stretch of consistent play proved he belonged. Grade: A- Future Outlook: Castle’s versatility and competitive edge give the Spurs a future floor general who can grow alongside Wemby.

Matas Buzelis – Chicago Bulls Buzelis didn’t always get big minutes, but when he did, the flashes were undeniable. The lanky forward averaged 8.6 points , 3.5 rebounds , and shot 36.1% from three , using his length to get shots off from anywhere. His best games hinted at high offensive upside. Grade: B Future Outlook: Buzelis has the tools to become a modern stretch forward who can score in bunches and fill multiple roles.

Bub Carrington – Washington Wizards Carrington flew under the radar early but made a name for himself by season’s end. In 82 games , he posted 9.8 points , 4.4 assists , and 4.2 rebounds , showing composure and vision beyond his age. His season finale — 15 points, 9 assists, and 7 rebounds — was a statement. Grade: B+ Future Outlook: Carrington could evolve into the Wizards’ lead guard of the future, providing steady playmaking and shot creation.