Full Breakdown
NBA Rookies to Watch in the 2025-26 Season
9/8/2025, 1:03:58 PM
Egor Demin: A Wildcard for Rookie of the Year
Egor Demin, the eighth overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, is emerging as a potential candidate for the 2025-26 NBA Rookie of the Year award. The Brooklyn Nets guard has shown promise during the Las Vegas Summer League, averaging 11.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game while shooting 40.7% from the field and 43.5% from three-point range. Analysts suggest that if Demin secures the starting point guard position, he could significantly enhance his chances for the accolade, especially given the competition from other rookies like Dallas Mavericks' Cooper Flagg.
Other Rookies with Potential Playoff Impact
Several rookies are poised to make their mark in the upcoming season. VJ Edgecombe, the No. 3 overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers, is expected to contribute immediately, bringing athleticism and versatility to a team aiming for playoff success. DaRon Holmes II, selected by the Denver Nuggets, is returning from injury and could provide much-needed depth after a strong summer league performance. Asa Newell, drafted by the Atlanta Hawks, is also anticipated to play a significant role as the team seeks to return to the playoffs.
Oklahoma City Thunder's Injury Setbacks
The Oklahoma City Thunder face challenges as they prepare for the 2025-26 season. Thomas Sorber, the 15th overall pick, will miss the entire season due to a torn ACL sustained during an offseason workout. This injury adds to the Thunder's history of rookie setbacks, as Nikola Topic also missed his rookie season due to injury. The Thunder will rely on players like Jaylin Williams to step up in Sorber's absence, as they aim to defend their championship title.
Charlotte Hornets' Rookie Optimism
The Charlotte Hornets are entering the season with a sense of optimism, particularly surrounding their four draft picks, including Kon Knueppel, who was named MVP of the Summer League. The rookies express excitement about the team's potential and the culture being fostered under head coach Charles Lee. They aim to build on their Summer League success and contribute to a brighter future for the franchise.
New Orleans Pelicans' Rookie Contributions
The New Orleans Pelicans selected Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen in the 2025 lottery, both of whom are expected to play pivotal roles in the team's efforts to return to the postseason. Fears, a score-first guard, faces competition for minutes, while Queen's performance in the Summer League has positioned him as a potential contributor in the frontcourt.
Conclusion: A Season of Potential
As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, several rookies are positioned to make significant impacts on their respective teams. From Demin's potential to win Rookie of the Year to the challenges faced by the Thunder and the optimism surrounding the Hornets and Pelicans, the upcoming season promises to be a showcase of emerging talent in the league.
