2026-27 NBA Rookies to Watch

As the first overall pick, AJ Dybantsa enters the NBA with plenty of attention from fans and collectors. He scored in double figures in all four preseason games, giving an early glimpse of his scoring ability. His combination of size, athleticism and offensive potential makes him one of the most closely watched rookies in the class.

Darryn Peterson has already shown that he can contribute in several ways. He scored 23 points in his second preseason game, then finished the preseason with 13 points, six rebounds and six assists. That mix of scoring and playmaking gives collectors more than one aspect of his game to follow.

Cameron Boozer put together a productive preseason, recording at least 10 points, four rebounds and two assists in each of his four games. His all-around production has also caught the attention of NBA general managers, who selected him as their preseason Rookie of the Year pick in the league's annual survey.

Caleb Wilson showed intriguing offensive potential during the preseason. His per-36-minute averages were 21.4 points, 6.2 rebounds and 3.8 assists, while shooting 43.5% from the field. Those numbers point to a player who could contribute as a scorer and facilitator if he earns a larger role.

Keaton Wagler joins a Clippers team where opportunities to earn minutes could be important to his development. With less pressure to carry a rebuilding team, he may have room to grow into his role while learning alongside established NBA talent.

Mikel Brown Jr. made a promising impression in his lone preseason appearance, finishing with 15 points, three rebounds, three assists and two steals. The performance offered a glimpse of his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor.

Darius Acuff Jr. gave collectors plenty to watch during the preseason. He scored 19 points against the Lakers, then followed with 25 points, eight assists and four rebounds against the Warriors. He also connected on eight three-pointers across the preseason, highlighting his scoring range.

Kingston Flemings showed encouraging signs as a playmaker during the preseason, recording at least five assists in three of his five games. He also committed just two turnovers across his final four preseason appearances, suggesting he was taking care of the ball while adjusting to the NBA game.

Morez Johnson Jr. had limited minutes across two preseason appearances, so there is still plenty to learn about his role with Dallas. As a frontcourt prospect, his path to a larger opportunity may depend on defense, rebounding and how effectively he makes use of his minutes.

Brayden Burries earned recognition in the NBA's general manager survey as a potential draft-day steal. He added an eye-catching preseason performance against Chicago, finishing with 19 points, five rebounds, five assists and four steals.

Yaxel Lendeborg delivered one of the more productive preseasons in the class, scoring at least 17 points in four of his five games. Against Sacramento, he recorded 23 points, 10 rebounds, six assists, two steals and a block in just 24 minutes. Warriors coach Steve Kerr has also indicated that Lendeborg could earn a place in the rotation.

Aday Mara made an early impression in the season opener against San Antonio, recording seven points, two rebounds, an assist and a block in nearly 12 minutes. One of the standout moments came when he blocked Victor Wembanyama on an attempted alley-oop dunk, then finished an alley-oop of his own on the following possession.

Nate Ament joins a Milwaukee team where his development and path to regular playing time will be important to follow. As a young forward, his potential value will depend on how he translates his skills to the professional game and earns opportunities within the rotation.

Hannes Steinbach rounds out this group as a young frontcourt prospect joining Charlotte. His development will be worth monitoring as he adapts to the NBA's pace and physicality and works toward a defined role.