Okay we know it’s really early, but this 2025 NBA draft class is really impressive with no more than 7-8 rookies showing all-star potential. Only a month into the season and Kon Knueppel, Cooper Flagg, Derik Queen, Dylan Harper, VJ Edgecombe, Cedric Coward and Ace Bailey are already displaying maturity that is extremely promising. And it’s not only these early performances looks good statistically, it’s in their confidence and poise with which they play.

Best NBA Draft Classes of All Time

To truly gauge the potential of the 2025 class, it must be measured against the best NBA draft classes. The 1984 Draft is frequently mentioned as the greatest, producing four all-time legends in Michael Jordan, Hakeem Olajuwon, Charles Barkley, and John Stockton. The 1996 Draft is renowned for its incredible depth, yielding multiple MVPs Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson, and Steve Nash alongside a plethora of All-Stars like Ray Allen and Peja Stojaković. Finally, the 2003 Draft featured a transcendent top tier with LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony, and Chris Bosh, all of whom profoundly shaped the modern era of the league.

As the 2025 NBA rookie class reshapes team dynamics and fan excitement, basketball betting markets are reacting quickly. Bitcoin betting sites offer a convenient and secure way to wager on NBA games, with competitive odds across moneylines, point spreads, and player props. For example, some sportsbooks have the Dallas Mavericks at +350 to make the playoffs, powered in part by Cooper Flagg’s strong rookie performances, while VJ Edgecombe’s scoring prop line of 20.5 points per game is set at around -110 odds.

Generational Standouts Leading the Charge

At the top of this rookie class are players already carrying themselves like they’ve been in the league for years. Cooper Flagg, the Mavericks’ No. 1 pick, has backed up the hype with steady production, around 16 points, 6 to 7 rebounds, 3 assists a night and scoring a lot of his points in a clutch.

After a great start, VJ Edgecombe has slowed some. After being taken third by Philadelphia, Edgecombe been the most explosive of the group. He’s averaging 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, and he rarely seems to slow down. His attacking style and nonstop motor have already sparked comparisons to some of the league’s top guards.

Surprise Risers and System Fits

After missing several games to start the season, the Utah Jazz are finally seeing why they chose Ace Bailey with the 5th overall pick. Bailey is a 6-9 wing that has brought a dynamic scoring punch and impressive athleticism. Similar to Bailey, high-flying guard Dylan Harper missed some of the season due to an injury, but the young shooting guard is back and showing his ability to attack the basket often scoring double figures off the bench.

Over in Charlotte, No. 4 pick Kon Knueppel is carving out his own path as a pure shooter. He’s putting up 18 points per game and knocking down more than 40% of his threes. The sharp-shooting Knueppel had a couple week run where the former Dukie rose to the top of the rookie list. The 7-1 center Ryan Kalkbrenner has been an immediate defensive anchor for the Hornets, averaging near  9 points, nearly 7 rebounds and about 2 blocks per hame.

Down in New Orleans, Derik Queen has brought an impressive blend of scoring efficiency and passing, consistently producing near mid-teens in points while effectively initiating offense from the post and the high elbow. Guard Jeremiah Fears has quickly established himself as a reliable perimeter threat, showcasing excellent ball-handling in transition and contributing efficiently in the mid-teens scoring range, fitting seamlessly into the team’s up-tempo style of play.

Rookies Reshaping Team Timelines

Perhaps the most significant impact of this class is on how franchises view the future. Teams with multiple rookies in key roles are accelerating rebuilds or reassessing trade strategies. Veterans with expiring contracts are suddenly more tradable, and front offices are evaluating how to maximize the emerging core’s contributions. On contending squads, rookies stabilize benches and expand lineup options, giving coaches more flexibility and confidence to experiment. The presence of capable rookies has also influenced strategic decision-making. This rookie class, in just the first month, has altered expectations for teams, redefined opportunities for young talent, and quietly shifted the balance of power across the NBA.