The NBA Rookie of the Year odds are generating a lot of buzz as the new season tips off.
It's remarkable to see how much can change in just a year. For example, this time last year, Zach Edey was still playing for Purdue and was projected to be a second-round pick at best in the NBA Draft.
But now, after being selected in the first round by the Memphis Grizzlies, he's the clear favorite to win the Rookie of the Year award.
Before we get to our Rookie of the Year picks, you should check out our NBA Rookie of the Year page, which explains everything you need to know about the award.
2025 NBA Rookie of the Year Odds
| To Win 2025 NBA Rookie of the Year |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zach Edey | +325 | +350 | +525 |
| Alexandre Sarr | +500 | +500 | +600 |
| Zaccharie Risacher | +700 | +700 | +700 |
| Stephon Castle | +700 | +725 | +700 |
| Reed Sheppard | +850 | +900 | +850 |
| Dalton Knecht | +1000 | +1100 | +1000 |
| Matas Buzelis | +1300 | +1200 | +1300 |
| Donovan Clingan | +1850 | +1800 | +2000 |
| Carlton Carrington | +2100 | +1800 | +2000 |
| Ron Holland | +2400 | +2000 | +2500 |
| Rob Dillingham | +2500 | +2000 | +2500 |
| Cody Williams | +2500 | +2000 | +2500 |
Zach Edey
Edey is set to play a crucial role on a promising Grizzlies team. As the starting center for Taylor Jenkins, he will alleviate a lot of pressure on Jaren Jackson Jr.
Despite JJJ's dynamic three-and-D skills, Edey's rebounding ability and threat around the rim could surpass him if he reaches his full NBA potential.
Edey has made an impressive start, dominating early Summer League games, performing well in the preseason, and showing no signs of slowing down for Jenkins' team.
His size, strength, and efficient scoring in the post make him a throwback success.
Zach Edey today vs the Jazz
🔥14 points
🔥15 boards
🔥4 blocks
🔥7-12 shooting+1 poster on Kessler
+1 Game tying shotSeems like he wasnt a bust after all, already has a double double pic.twitter.com/CjH2dHznWS
— 𝓻𝓪𝓯 🐻〽🇧🇷 (@VinceGGCentral) July 9, 2024
Edey's ability to thrive with his back to the basket could appeal to voters in an era dominated by three-point shots and fast-paced play. His fundamental post moves and interior strength set him apart.
Additionally, his guaranteed usage and unique playing style work in his favor as a Rookie of the Year candidate.
Edey also benefits from his supportive environment. Jenkins is known for developing young talent, and Memphis has a passionate fanbase.
With mentors like Ja Morant, Marcus Smart, and JJJ, Edey has the support he needs. For now, it seems like the Rookie of the Year award is Edey's to lose.
Stephon Castle
The Spurs will always be Victor Wembanyama’s team, but he can’t carry the franchise to relevancy in the Western Conference all by himself.
San Antonio had two top-8 picks in the lottery, but ended up with only one player, Stephon Castle. Castle, a former UConn Husky, is a big, strong guard known for his defensive prowess, rebounding ability, and scoring in the paint.
Stephon Castle 16-4-3-2 at HOU pic.twitter.com/bmNF83TBjM
— Brett Usher (@UsherNBA) October 18, 2024
Given San Antonio's limited additions over the summer, Castle is expected to have a significant role alongside Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes.
His tenacious defense and off-ball cutting will complement Wembanyama well. Castle has an good shot to win the Rookie of the Year award at +700 odds.
Reed Sheppard
Reed Sheppard had a breakout 2023-24 NCAA season, leading to his selection as the third overall pick.
In his preseason debut with the Houston Rockets, he showcased his skills, positioning himself as a strong contender for Rookie of the Year in the upcoming season.
Throughout the preseason, Sheppard showed promise while also embracing his rookie status. His most notable performance was against the Thunder, where he scored 11 points and grabbed four rebounds on five-of-seven shooting.
Reed Sheppard is the CHOSEN ONE!! What a debut. 🔥😮💨 #BBN
23 pts, 5 ast, 4 reb, 3 blks pic.twitter.com/ezAlWoA3dM
— Buddy 🏀😼 (@BigBlueBud) July 13, 2024
Moving to the NBA as a guard will pose challenges for Sheppard, but he will have the support of a dynamic backcourt alongside established players like Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet.
His ability to contribute alongside these talents will be crucial in determining his chances of winning NBA Rookie of the Year.
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Dalton Knecht
Dalton Knecht had an outstanding preseason, with his best performance coming in the final game before the opening night.
In that game, he scored 35 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and made seven three-pointers with an impressive 55.6% shooting from the field.
This remarkable scoring display followed a slow start from beyond the arc in his first three preseason appearances, where he made only five of 24 attempts.
My goodness, Dalton Knecht scored 20 straight points for the @Lakers.
LA fans are going to have fun watching him this season pic.twitter.com/GNNGVynhnV
— Trey Wallace (@TreyWallace_) October 18, 2024
Playing for the Lakers, a team with ambitions to win the NBA Championship, Knecht has the chance to have an immediate impact.
His confident shooting and scoring abilities seamlessly fit into the Lakers' offense, especially with established stars like Anthony Davis and LeBron James.
As a result, Knecht has emerged as a dark horse candidate for the Rookie of the Year award.
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