One of the most intriguing NBA futures to bet on this season will be the odds to win Rookie of the Year.
There was no clear-cut, consensus No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft as opinions varied. Now as we start summer League action, we’re seeing some surprise candidates early on emerge as contenders for the rookie award. With that in mind, let’s check out the opening odds at BetAnySports sportsbook and see who might be worth a play.
Chet Holmgren, NBA Oklahoma City Thunder
Odds: +350
A lot of people felt that Chet Holmgren didn’t have an NBA-ready body and that his wiry frame would hold him back from having an immediate impact. However, he has been one of the biggest surprises in Summer League as the power forward has looked crisp and smooth so far. His debut saw him collect 23 points, seven rebounds, four assists and a steal. He made seven of nine from the field with four threes.
His shooting was incredible for a big man and that’s the key here. If his stroke is going to be this smooth, he’s going to be among the frontrunners. We know that the Thunder will give him all of the minutes he can handle, so he’ll have the numbers to make a case.
Paolo Banchero, NBA Orlando Magic
Odds: +450
Banchero was the No. 1 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft and, of course, will get plenty of action as a result. The question is what can he contribute to the Magic right off the bat? He’s yet to get going in Summer League but he will shortly. That will give us our first look.
The major headwind for Banchero could be that the Magic have a lot of young talent around him. On one hand, it could work for him as having guys like Markelle Fultz and Jonathan Isaac and Cole Anthony for support. They might take a lot of pressure off of him. At the same time, it’s likely they cut into his numbers, which could hold him back from having the resume he needs.
Keegan Murray, NBA Sacramento Kings
Odds: +900
One of everyone’s favorite value plays to win Rookie of the Year is Keegan Murray of the Sacramento Kings. For the first time in a while, it feels like the Kings actually have a bit of a foundation and a direction, and Murray might benefit from that. De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis are now the building blocks for this roster and the team should have a decent head coach now in Mike Brown – even if he’s unspectacular.
Murray is a pure scoring from the wing and that’s exactly what the Kings need. He was one of the four finalists for the Naismith Award in college basketball last season and his scoring prowess has been on display early on in Summer League. He dropped 26 in his first outing and 24 in his second.
He’s also a strong rebounder and chips in with blocks and steals, so he has all the mixings to be in the running. If you’re looking for a longer shot who has a really good chance of winning, this is your guy.
