NBA Draft 2016: Predicting Rookie of the Year

The major consensus among this year’s NBA draft class is that it was weak overall, even though the two headlining prospects have the potential to be franchise players. However, there was talent to be had outside of Ben Simmons and Brandon Ingram, and there’s a chance that some of them could end up having better careers.

In the end, it doesn’t matter where someone gets drafted, they still have to be placed in the correct system. Surrounding them with mentors or like-minded prospects with similar upside also helps with development. It’s why the last two Rookies of the Year have come out of Minnesota, since they have the benefit of Kevin Garnett to help them learn the ropes. And with Tom Thibodeau coming in this year, we could see them win it for a third straight time.

Nothing can take away the feeling that these prospects will get when they hear their name called on draft night. It’s an unforgettable moment, but it will also be the next chapter in their lives, and it’s up to them to make the most of what they will get.

While Rookie of the Year will matter a lot to some, others will be more focused on making their team competitive again. Regardless, it’s still a remarkable achievement to display, and one that their teams will hold in high regard.

In a top heavy class, there may not be as many draft picks that will play right away, but the ones who do will have a good shot at Rookie of the Year. Here are the five likeliest candidates.

Next: 5. Jamal Murray