Race to ROY
This NBA season is very interesting and different from the previous years. The 2017 draft class was most definitely packed with not only skilled athletes, but even more interestingly each had stories which appealed heavily to the media (most notably Lonzo Ball). From the #1 pick of Markelle Fultz, even to the #27th pick of Kyle Kuzma, the NBA has definitely reloaded and is paving the way for seasons to come. However, which rookie will come out on top? It's a long season ahead but we can look at which top 3 rookies are going above and beyond at the moment.
1. Ben Simmons (my favorite to win it)
Technically a sophomore drafted back in 2016, but due to pre-season injuries Simmons did not see the hardwood until this season. This manimal of a human is currently averaging 17.5 ppg, 8.9 rpg, and 7.7 apg. Also with a current field goal percentage sitting at a nice 50.4%, Simmons is performing pretty well for a rookie. If Simmons remains healthy and finishes the season with his current stat line, he would just the second rookie ever to finish with stats such as his (first rookie being Oscar Robertson back in the 1960-61 season, he's definitely in good company). With the help of his teammates such as Joel Embiid and Robert Covington, his success is definitely something not to be taken granted for. His downside however resides in free throw percentage (at a poor 57%), turnover rate of 4.0 per game, and yet has to take a shot from the three point land. With that being said, there is plenty of work to be done in the upcoming summer leading to 2018.
2. Jayson Tatum (the most complete rookie, in my opinion)
Jayson Tatum, a 5 star NCAA recruit, had an excellent college career, and then proceeded to be drafted at #3 overall to the Boston Celtics. Tatum has the most complete game overall in the entire 2017 draft class. Currently averaging 13.8 ppg, 5.6 rpg, and 1.3 apg. The most interesting stat that stands out to me most is his field goal and three point percentage; currently at, 51% and 50% respectively. If Tatum can finish the season strong, with his current percentages, he would be only the second rookie ever to lead the league in three point percentage in entire NBA history. With the help of his captain, Kyrie Irving, and teammates Jayson Tatum is blooming to be a dominant player for many years to come.
3. Donovan Mitchell (the dark horse)
I know what you're thinking, who in the world is this guy? I suggest you to not sleep on this guy, he is full of potential and just because he's had one week of success, receiving media coverage, do not let this fool you. This guy is here to stay. Currently averaging 17.3 ppg, 3.2 apg, 3.0 rpg, and a current field goal percentage of 42%, Mitchell is performing exceptionally well. His most notable performance was as of recent, against the New Orleans Pelicans, in which he dropped 41 points (being only the second rookie to score more than 40 points in a game; first being Blake Griffin back in 2011). Pairing his basketball IQ with his above the charts athleticism, Mitchell is flying under the radar, but definitely a force to be reckoned with.