The NBA season has finally arrived. The preseason is underway and the regular season is nearing. Some of the biggest focus this preseason is on the rookies. This is the rookie’s first taste of NBA action and they will get a plethora of opportunities. The preseason is for coaches to see which players can step up and make an impact. While most lottery picks will make some kind of contributions to their teams, here are four rookies set to make immediate impacts.
Victor Oladipo, Orlando Magic
Oladipo was selected second overall by the Orlando Magic in this year’s draft. This 6’4” guard is capable of playing multiple positions and it looks like he will do just that. The Magic have expressed interest in switching Oladipo to point guard, something I’m not sure he is capable of. However no matter what position he ends up playing he will make an impact. He is a terrific defensive player and he has a solid offensive game that is still developing. He possesses a great first step, and has the ability to shoot outside the perimeter. He will also make contributions in the rebounding department, as he is an excellent rebounder. Most importantly, he has a fantastic work ethic. Oladipo will continue to progress as the season goes on and he will certainly be given his opportunities to play.
Trey Burke, Utah Jazz
Burke is a fantastic point guard for the Utah Jazz. He was drafted 9th overall and is well deserving of that pick. Although Burke is undersized at 6’1”, he is a tremendous player. He has a high basketball IQ and is a fantastic passer. The two biggest knocks on Burke are his size and his ability to defend taller point guards. While Burke struggled in summer league play, he will be an immediate impact player for the Jazz. The Jazz have many young and inexperienced starters this year, so expectations are not very high. Burke will be a great leader for this team, and should have no problem finding his open teammates. Burke can score from anywhere on the court and should be a consistent offensive contributor. While Burke will certainly have his fair share of struggles this year, he will be an immediate starter and a great building block for the Jazz
Michael Carter-Williams, Philadelphia 76ers
Michael Cater-Williams is a 6’6” point guard from Syracuse University. He was selected 11th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers. Carter-Williams possess great size and length for the point guard position. This allows him to excel as a perimeter defender and rebounder. He is also a fantastic passer, averaging over seven assists per game last year. He also excels at driving to the basket and getting to the rim. Some areas of concern for Carter-Williams are his ability to shot the jumper and turnovers. He really struggles when shooting outside, as shown by his 39% shooting percentage. He also turns the ball over quite a bit, averaging over three per game. While he is a great passer, he is sometimes too aggressive with his passes. He will certainly struggle at first; however he will provide a positive impact. He is the undisputed starter for the 76ers and he should get plenty of experience. The 76ers roster really lacks any star talent, so he should have free reign over the ball. There are no real expectations for the 76ers this year so Carter-Williams will be free to learn and progress without much criticism. While Carter-Williams will struggle, he will be a solid perimeter defender and a true point guard for the 76ers.
Kelly Olynyk, Boston Celtics
The big man out of Gonzaga was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks but was immediately traded to the Boston Celtics. Boston is a fantastic landing spot for the versatile center and he should make an immediate impact. Boston went with a full rebuild this offseason, trading their two best players and letting their coach walk. Olynyk should see immediate playing time and could start at the center position. Olynyk is a true 7 footer and can score from anywhere. He possesses one of the best offensive repertoires of all the rookie big men. He has a great set of post moves and a consistent jumper. He can also shoot the three with some efficiency. The biggest weakness Kelly will have to deal with is his lack of athleticism.
He has a below average vertical and lacks explosiveness. Even though he is 7’, he struggles to rebound against stronger and more athletic competition. While he isn’t a prolific shot blocker, he plays solid defense in the post. The Celtics lack a true center and Olynyk should earn the starting job. The Celtics will have many inexperienced players in starting roles this year and Olynyk will be one of them. Olynyk and Rajon Rondo should form a danger pick and roll combination. He will also provide consistent scoring from all over the floor. Olynyk will be a major contributor for the Celtics and will make an immediate impact.