NBA Rookie of the Year Betting Odds, Tips, Picks: Wembenyama Favored
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The anticipation has ended. Victor Wembenyama, one of the most eagerly awaited NBA prospects, officially joined the NBA as the San Antonio Spurs' No.1 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft.
All eyes are now on his NBA Summer League debut, marking his first NBA action before the regular season kickoff this autumn. This inaugural game will provide a first glimpse at Wembenyama's potential impact in the NBA.
With the NBA Draft concluded, sportsbooks have announced the futures betting odds for the NBA Rookie of the Year award for the 2023-24 season.
We dissect the top contenders and suggest three promising players to consider for your NBA betting.
Who are the Favorites to Win NBA Rookie of the Year
Victor Wembenyama, San Antonio Spurs
Victor Wembenyama, with odds of -160 on FanDuel Sportsbook, is predictably the frontrunner for the Rookie of the Year award. His odds are even higher at -225 on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Historically, generational talents tend to fare well in securing the Rookie of the Year title. Icons such as LeBron James (2004), Shaquille O’Neal (1993), Patrick Ewing (1986), Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1970), Larry Bird (1980), Michael Jordan (1985), Allen Iverson (1997), Tim Duncan (1998), and Kevin Durant (2008) all captured this prestigious award.
Considering this trend, a bet on Wembenyama at -160 might prove to be the right move.
In terms of NBA betting, a new element to consider is the recently introduced minimum game requirement for postseason awards eligibility.
Under the latest collective bargaining agreement, players must participate in at least 65 regular season games to qualify for these awards. Therefore, the Spurs' careful handling of Wembenyama could potentially affect his eligibility.
Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder
In the shadow of Wembenyama's hype, Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren is also a remarkable prospect, set to make his debut this season after recovering from a foot injury. Holmgrem has +650 sports betting odds at FanDuel Sportsbook.
A unicorn-type player like Wembenyama, Holmgren aims to join Ben Simmons and Blake Griffin, who both won Rookie of the Year honors in their second season after injuries delayed their NBA debuts.
Holmgren has a similar skill set to Wembenyama. At 7 feet, he can score inside and has a solid handle and shot from outside. In summer league, Holmgren averaged 17 points, 9.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and four blocks while making 50% of his shots and 41% from 3.
He’s had another year to develop his skinny frame and could benefit from sitting out and getting accustomed to the NBA.
Holmgren, too, might face concerns over meeting the 65-game requirement to be eligible for awards.
Brandon Miller, Charlotte Hornets
Not to be overlooked, Brandon Miller, with odds at +1300 on FanDuel Sportsbook, could prove a worthy bet. As one of the top draft picks, Miller's transition to the NBA raises the least concerns.
His scoring capabilities, combined with his 6-9 frame and impressive 38% 3-point shooting during his solo season at Alabama, make him a promising NBA candidate.
Miller will also have the luxury of playing alongside LaMelo Ball, whose 8.4 assists per game ranked fifth in the league. Ball’s uptempo style and ability to push the ball in the open floor should create more scoring opportunities for a player like Miller. Forward Miles Bridges thrived alongside Ball, averaging 20 points per game in his previous season with the team.
Another thing going for Miller is we just saw a player of his type receive Rookie of the Year honors. Orlando’s Paolo Banchero is a 6-10 forward who averaged 20 points, 6.9 rebounds and was named Rookie of the Year after being the No. 1 overall pick. Miller has the potential to put up a similar stat line this season, making him a worthwhile longshot at +1300.
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