The excitement is building for the 2025 NBA Draft’s top picks, including Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper. Flagg, selected first overall by the Dallas Mavericks, has emerged as a strong favorite for the Kia Rookie of the Year award. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches and hailing from Newport, Maine, he made a significant impact at Duke before entering the league.
Who Will Challenge Cooper Flagg on the Kia Rookie Ladder?
While Cooper Flagg is the frontrunner, he is not without competition. The following players, selected in the NBA Draft lottery, will be key challengers throughout the season.
Top Lottery Picks
- Dylan Harper, San Antonio Spurs (No. 2)
Harper plays behind De’Aaron Fox, which may limit his opportunities. Still, teammate Victor Wembanyama believes he can impact games immediately. - VJ Edgecombe, Philadelphia 76ers (No. 3)
Edgecombe has led all rookies in preseason scoring and joins a talented backcourt with Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain. His defensive skills have impressed coach Nick Nurse. - Kon Knueppel, Charlotte Hornets (No. 4)
Knueppel adds versatility to the Hornets, contributing alongside stars like LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. His offensive contributions were notable in preseason. - Ace Bailey, Utah Jazz (No. 5)
Bailey contended with health issues but showed promise by scoring over 20 points in multiple games. His offensive cutting and jump-shooting highlight his potential. - Tre Johnson, Washington Wizards (No. 6)
Johnson’s shooting performance in preseason drew praise. His statistical dip raises questions, but his work ethic remains a positive for Washington’s young core. - Jeremiah Fears, New Orleans Pelicans (No. 7)
Coach Willie Green emphasized the need for Fears to maintain an aggressive mindset. He is likely to back up Jordan Poole this season. - Egor Dëmin, Brooklyn Nets (No. 8)
Dëmin targets increased strength as he prepares for his debut. Improving his shot will be crucial for his impact on the game. - Collin Murray-Boyles, Toronto Raptors (No. 9)
Murray-Boyles is recovering from a forearm injury and is anticipated to bring defensive versatility upon his return. - Khaman Maluach, Phoenix Suns (No. 10)
Maluach is making strides in camp, showcasing his scoring ability and the potential to contribute significantly. - Cedric Coward, Memphis Grizzlies (No. 11)
Coward’s journey through multiple schools showcases his determination. He is positioned as a wing defender with significant height. - Noa Essengue, Chicago Bulls (No. 12)
Essengue has room to grow as he strengthens his physique in a crowded Bulls frontcourt. - Derik Queen, New Orleans Pelicans (No. 13)
After recovering from an injury, Queen is ready to show his scoring ability as a forward or center. - Carter Bryant, San Antonio Spurs (No. 14)
Bryant is seen as a key defensive asset for the Spurs, complementing their other talented players.
As the season progresses, the Rookie Ladder will highlight each player’s performance in comparison to Cooper Flagg. The race for the Kia Rookie of the Year is just beginning, and it remains to be seen who will rise to the challenge.
