The NBA season is upon us, and most people would agree that this year's batch of rookies is one of the most exciting to watch out for in recent years. There is a healthy mix of jaw-dropping athleticism, raw talent, and high potential among the bunch and is definitely a great idea for fans to keep an eye for their favorite rookie this season.
But among the bunch, there are five rookies that are a definite must to watch out for the season. These are the newbies who have the ability to pass the NBA season with flying colors. They should be able to create an impact for their respective ball clubs in their initial years.
Here are the 5 NBA rookies to watch out for this season:
Brandon Ingram (Los Angeles Lakers, 2nd Pick)
The Lakers might have gotten the best deal of the draft when they landed Brandon Ingram. You know you are in good company when your college game is already being compared to the likes of Kevin Durant. With Luke Walton as head coach and a dynamic point guard in D'Angelo Russell, expect the wiry 6'10 forward to create a lot of mismatches with his combination of speed and shooting touch. Now that the Lakers have lost the legendary Kobe Bryant, expect the club to thrust the young Ingram to the LA lights.
Ben Simmons (Philadelphia 76ers, 1st Pick)
There is one big reason why the 76ers chose Simmons over Ingram in the NBA draft, and that is the chance to get the second coming of Lebron James. The two have eerily similar builds with an equal blend of court vision, unselfish play, and athleticism. The only problem for Simmons is his recent foot injury that will make him questionable to play.
However, if the young Simmons does get to play this season, expect the Philadelphia 76ers to give their prized rookie a lot of playing time.
Buddy Hield (New Orleans Pelicans, 6th pick)
Known for his shooting prowess, Buddy Hield will be a big boon for the Pelicans, who are a bit poor when it comes to perimeter shooting. Now that Tyreke Evans will be most likely out for a while, expect Hield to take over starting duties and showcase his skills alongside Anthony Davis.
Kris Dunn (Minnesota Timberwolves, 5th Pick)
Kris Dunn is one of those point guards with the size and explosiveness that most teams in NBA just love. Those around the NBA give the talented guard a great shot of winning rookie of the year honors. One problem for Dunn though is that he will most likely play backup to Ricky Rubio during most of his first year. Expect the Timberwolves though to give their newly drafted point guard a good chunk of minutes and test him out at times at the shooting guard position.
Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets, 7th Pick)
Don't sleep on Murray just yet, the 6'5 guard with a good shooting touch has the tools to make a good first year run for the Nuggets. Getting him at number 7 at the draft was a huge steal for Denver and expect the young roster of Denver to make room for Murray once the season goes underway.
The NBA regular season starts on Oct. 25. Be sure to watch out for these rookies as they make that giant leap through the NBA.
