The Best NBA Rookies to Watch in 2025
As we head into the 2025 NBA season, an exciting crop of rookies is poised to make their mark on the league. These young stars have demonstrated exceptional talent and potential in their college careers, and now they’re ready to bring their skills to the professional stage.
Among these promising newcomers, perhaps none has generated more buzz than Jaylen Johnson. The former Duke star was a dominant force in college basketball, showcasing his versatile skill set and impressive athleticism night after night. With his ability to score from anywhere on the court and defend multiple positions, Johnson is expected to be an immediate impact player in the NBA.
Another rookie worth watching closely is Cade Cunningham. A product of Oklahoma State University, Cunningham’s game has drawn comparisons with some of the best point guards in NBA history due to his court vision and playmaking abilities. He also possesses a reliable jump shot that makes him a scoring threat at all times.
From Gonzaga University comes Jalen Suggs who had been turning heads even before he stepped foot onto an NBA court. Known for his clutch performances during March Madness, Suggs brings a winning mentality along with his excellent shooting touch and defensive prowess.
Meanwhile, Evan Mobley out of USC offers something different for fans who appreciate big men who can do it all. Standing at seven feet tall with guard-like agility and ball-handling skills, Mobley promises to be one of those rare centers who can dominate both ends of the floor while stretching defenses with his outside shooting.
Finally, there’s Scottie Barnes from Florida State University – another multi-positional player whose length and athleticism could make him a nightmare matchup for opposing teams. His defensive versatility combined with offensive upside hints at potential stardom if developed correctly.
It should be noted that while these players are highly touted coming into their rookie seasons; success isn’t always immediate or guaranteed in the NBA as many factors come into play such as team fit, coaching, and player development. Nonetheless, these rookies represent the future of the NBA – a future that looks incredibly bright.
As we eagerly anticipate the start of the 2025 NBA season, these rookies will be under intense scrutiny as they attempt to navigate their first year in professional basketball. It’s always exciting to watch young talents grow and develop into potential superstars, and this year promises to be no exception. Whether they live up to expectations or not, one thing is for sure: these rookies are set to bring plenty of excitement and intrigue to an already thrilling league.
