Five rookies to watch in the NBA
The Quebecer Bennedict Mathurin, of the Indiana Pacers, does not lack ambition, having in sight the title of rookie of the year in the NBA. However, it is clear that the competition is fierce.
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Bennedict Mathurin, Indiana Pacers
In Game 1 of the NBA on Wednesday night in Indianapolis, Bennedict Mathurin scored 19 points for the Indiana Pacers in a 114-107 loss to the Washington Wizards. The Quebecer, selected sixth overall in the most recent draft, has already shown his potential from the three-point line, making three baskets from “downtown”. Mathurin, who played nearly 29 minutes on Wednesday, could be used frequently by Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle.
Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic
Chosen first in the June draft, Paolo Banchero is logically the big favorite to win the title of rookie of the year in the NBA. Wearing the colors of the Orlando Magic, he also played a first meeting on Wednesday. He had an impressive 27 points despite the Magic losing 113-109 to the Detroit Pistons. He also collected nine rebounds and blocked two shots from the opposition.
Jabari Smith Jr., Houston Rockets
Long considered the potential first pick in the 2022 draft, Jabari Smith Jr. has finally slipped to the third echelon. The Houston Rockets took the opportunity to select this product from the Auburn University Tigers. Smith could benefit from guidance from his father, who briefly played in the NBA for five seasons, mostly with the Sacramento Kings.
Keegan Murray, Sacramento Kings
Keegan Murray will most likely play on the NBA courts over the next weekend. Sick, the Sacramento Kings rookie had to follow the protocol related to the health and safety of players on the Silver circuit earlier this week. Coach Mike Brown then deemed a return to training necessary for Murray before sending him into the fray. Fourth overall pick in the last draft, he stood out during the summer with an average of 23.3 points per game in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.
Jaden Ivey, Detroit Pistons
Up-and-coming Jaden Ivey had the opportunity to make his NBA debut against another rookie to watch in Orlando Magic’s Paolo Banchero on Wednesday night. However, Ivey did pretty well with 19 points. Did the Detroit Pistons, who won the game, pull off a masterstroke by picking him fifth overall in the recent draft? Only the future will tell.
