Jul 13, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) shoots against Portland Trail Blazers center Donovan Clingan (23) during the first quarter at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

NBA All-Rookie Projections For The 2024-25 Season

Originally posted on NBA Draft on SI | By Arya Chawla | Last updated Sep 30, 2024 4:15 PM ET

Alas, the NBA returns this week. The lengthy off-season concluded with a blockbuster trade late last week between the Minnesota Timberwolves and New York Knicks. Minnesota sent out star big man Karl-Anthony Towns in exchange for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo. This transaction served as a memorable introduction to the 2024-24 NBA season, which has finally dawned upon us.

In particular, the new NBA season means the 2024-25 rookie class will make their debuts. While a successful first season looks different for every draftee, each rookie will be gunning for one of the ten prestigious spots on an All-Rookie team. Across the first and second team, these rookies are in the best position to earn All-Rookie honors.

First Team:

Zach Edey, Memphis Grizzlies

Filling an important role for a playoff contender, Edey is in prime positon to make a big impact with his physical play on the interior.

Donovan Clingan, Portland Trail Blazers

The most dominant defender in his draft class, Clingan will make a sizeable impact right out of the gate with his incredible paint-protecting acumen.

Kel’el Ware, Miami Heat

After a dominant summer league campaign, Ware brings his intriguing mix of athletic traits and impressive skills to a top-notch player development team in Miami.

Matas Buzelis, Chicago Bulls

A well-rounded wing, Buzelis will positively contribute to Chicago in many facets of the game on both ends.

Reed Sheppard, Houston Rockets

Sheppard will nail threes and rack up steals unlike any other rookie, adding notable impact through this productivity.

Second Team:

Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs

Castle’s complementary offensive skills and NBA-ready perimeter defense will allow him to stand out in San Antonio.

Alexandre Sarr, Washington Wizards

A versatile defender, Sarr’s best traits will allow him to find lanes to productivity for the Wizards.

Zaccharie Risacher, Atlanta Hawks

The first overall pick will bring impact through his off-ball play offensively and steady defensive contributions.

Terrence Shannon Jr., Minnesota Timberwolves