Jimmy Boyd in 
The 2023-24 NBA season will be here before you know it and something I always have an interest in is the Rookie of the Year (ROY) race. With a fresh batch of talent entering the league, something both professionals and casual fans alike are eager to wager on is who will emerge as the top first-year player. Here’s an in-depth look at the frontrunners and their odds of clinching the coveted ROY title.
2023-24 NBA Rookie of the Year Odds
| Team | Odds | Implied Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Victor Wembanyama | -750 | 88.24% |
| Chet Holmgren | +550 | 15.38% |
| Brandon Miller | +20000 | 0.5% |
| Jaime Jaquez Jr | +50000 | 0.2% |
Victor Wembanyama: -130
Standing at a staggering 7’4″, French center Victor Wembanyama has been the talk of the league for awhile. His unique combination of height, skill, and agility has drawn comparisons to NBA legends like LeBron James and Kevin Durant. Wembanyama’s potential was evident even before he set foot on an NBA court, with many touting him as the “best prospect since LeBron James.”
Joining the San Antonio Spurs, Wembanyama will be under the tutelage of the legendary coach Gregg Popovich. This mentorship, combined with his raw talent, makes him a favorite for the ROY award. However, some experts have raised concerns about his durability over the 82-game season, given his lean frame. Only time will tell if he can withstand the rigors of the NBA.
Chet Holmgren: +280
Chet Holmgren’s journey to the NBA has been anything but straightforward. After missing out on last season due to a Lisfranc injury, the seven-foot big man is set to make his mark with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Despite his setback, Holmgren’s talent is undeniable. His ability to rebound, block shots, and score makes him a two-way threat on the court. Even though he’s seven-foot tall, he can still handle the ball and shoot like a guard. He’s definitely going to be difficult for opposing teams to match up against.
Playing alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, Holmgren will have plenty of opportunities to showcase his skills. The Thunder are in a rebuilding phase so Holmgren will get plenty of opportunities to shine. I think he’ll make an immediate impact in helping OKC be a playoff contender.
Some analysts believe that his two-way ability, combined with a solid defensive presence, could see him clinch the ROY title. It doesn’t seem like you should sleep on this kid just because he was drafted a year ago.
Scoot Henderson: +240
Another name that has consistently popped up in ROY discussions is Scoot Henderson. The dynamic point guard, who chose to play in the NBA G-League instead of going to college, has showcased his prowess on the court. With rumors of Damian Lillard potentially leaving Portland, the Trail Blazers might lean heavily on Henderson, providing him with ample opportunities to shine.
Henderson’s athleticism, leadership skills, and scoring ability make him a strong contender for the ROY title. Some experts even pick him as the favorite over Wembanyama.
Brandon Miller: +1600
Brandon Miller’s entry into the NBA has been accompanied by its fair share of controversies. However, his on-court performances have silenced many critics. You can bet that he has a chip on his shoulder and a desire to prove his detractors wrong.
As the top-ranked wing player of his draft class, Miller’s versatility and scoring prowess make him a name to watch out for in the ROY race. Playing for the Charlotte Hornets alongside LaMelo Ball, Miller is expected to thrive in an up-tempo offense. He’ll get plenty of open shot opportunities in this offense and plenty of easy buckets in transition. Ball’s vision and playmaking skills will ensure Miller gets the ball where he can do damage.
Defensively he is also impressive. His wingspan and agility allow him to guard multiple positions which might make him the best two-way player of this bunch.
Dark Horses in the Race
While the aforementioned rookies are the frontrunners, the ROY race often throws up surprises. Players like Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore, though not as highly touted, have the potential to make a significant impact. Their current odds might be longer, but as the season progresses, these dark horses might just surge ahead.
Conclusion
The 2023-24 NBA Rookie of the Year race promises to be a thrilling contest. While Victor Wembanyama is the consensus favorite, players like Scoot Henderson, Chet Holmgren, and Brandon Miller are hot on his heels. As the season unfolds, it will be fascinating to see which rookie rises to the occasion and etches their name in NBA history. Whatever the outcome, one thing is certain: the future of the NBA is in safe hands.
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