2025 NBA Rookie of the Year Picks: Edey leads pack, Castle and Knecht loom

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 shot

Seems 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.

Zach Edey To win 2025 Rookie of the Year

+350

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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.

Stephon Castle To win 2025 Rookie of the Year

+700

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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.

Reed Sheppard To win 2025 Rookie of the Year

+850

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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.

Dalton Knecht To win 2025 Rookie of the Year

+1000

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