Friday Forecast: 07/18/2025 - NBA Rookie of the Year Power Rankings - July

NBA Rookie of the Year Power Rankings – July

With Summer League underway and the 2025 rookie class already making waves, it’s time to take an early look at who’s positioned to make the biggest impact this season. These rankings weigh expected roles, team fit, and early flashes of production as we project which rookies could headline the Rookie of the Year conversation come next spring.

Top 12

1. Cooper Flagg – F, Mavericks

Flagg is expected to be a centerpiece of a Mavericks team looking to establish its offensive identity—potentially alongside Kyrie Irving for the early part of the year. His high usage rate and all-around game should lead to some eye-popping box scores right away.

2. Ace Bailey – F, Jazz

Bailey, the No. 5 overall pick, is already showing his offensive upside, posting an 18-7-3 line in just his second Summer League game. The Jazz will lean on him heavily, and he looks up to the task of carrying a big load early.

3. Kon Knueppel – G, Hornets

Knueppel slots into what should be a highly productive spot alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. If the early returns are strong, he’s a rookie you’ll want to buy into fast.

4. Dylan Harper – G, Spurs

The No. 2 overall pick faces a crowded Spurs backcourt after the team drafted Stephon Castle last year. Harper’s path to big minutes might take time to develop, but his long-term upside is massive.

5. Tre Johnson – G, Wizards

Washington’s rebuild opens the door for Johnson to step into a major role as the season progresses. His shooting could become a cornerstone of the Wizards’ offense, making him a sleeper ROY candidate.

6. V.J. Edgecombe – G, 76ers

Edgecombe’s two-way talent is undeniable. On a contending Sixers squad, he’ll have to earn his minutes, but his defensive instincts and athleticism give him a real chance to carve out a significant role quickly.

7. Derik Queen – F/C, Pelicans

Queen’s role in the Pelicans’ frontcourt rotation isn’t quite set yet, but his skill set suggests he’ll make his presence felt on the stat sheet sooner rather than later.

8. Egor Demin – G, Nets

Demin is expected to be a major part of Brooklyn’s backcourt rotation from day one. If he catches fire early, he could climb this list quickly and challenge other guards for ROY consideration.

9. Collin Murray-Boyles – F, Raptors

Murray-Boyles brings defensive energy, rebounding, and hustle stats that could help him stand out right away. His offensive game still needs polish, but he’s already making noise in Summer League.

10. Jeremiah Fears – G, Pelicans

Fears figures to be a significant piece of the Pelicans’ long-term plans, but his exact role this season remains unclear. Still, he’s a talented sleeper who could surprise if given the opportunity.

11. Kasparas Jakucionis – G, Heat

The Heat have a knack for getting the most out of their young players, and Jakucionis could be the next example. A playoff push for Miami could also help raise his profile as a rookie contributor.

12. Nique Clifford – G/F, Kings

Clifford is a stat-sheet filler with defensive chops and a developing offensive game. If he cracks Sacramento’s rotation early, he could be a sneaky name to watch as the season unfolds.

Scout's Take:

This rookie class is deep and full of intriguing talent, but early opportunity is everything when it comes to Rookie of the Year candidacy. Watch for how rotations shake out in camp and preseason—especially for guys like Harper, Queen, and Maluach who have high ceilings but unclear roles.

We’ll update these rankings monthly as the season approaches and storylines develop.

Who’s your pick for Rookie of the Year? Flagg or the field?