10 Underrated Rookies Who Will Have A Bigger Impact Than Expected

When it comes to the NBA Draft, the focus is usually on the top picks, those top-tier talents that come in with huge expectations. But every year, a handful of rookies go under the radar and end up being pivotal pieces for their teams. Whether it’s due to being overlooked in favor of flashier names or landing in situations that suit them perfectly, these players have a chance to exceed all the early-season predictions.

From versatile role players to raw talent with untapped potential, here are 10 rookies you might not be talking about enough—but definitely should be.

1. Kel’el Ware

Kel’el Ware has already made a noticeable impact in his two preseason games, giving Heat fans a glimpse of what he can bring to the table. In the opener against the Charlotte Hornets, Ware put up 13 points and 4 blocks, really showing off his defensive instincts. He’s not just a shot-blocker, though—he’s got a smooth jumper and even hit some free throws in crunch time. Miami’s system is perfect for Ware to develop because they’ll push him to maximize his versatile skill set, especially with his ability to space the floor.

What’s exciting about Ware is that he fits seamlessly into the Heat’s rotation, providing much-needed size and interior defense. The Heat lacked a true 7-footer last season, so having someone with Ware’s wingspan and shot-blocking ability is a game-changer. He’s already displayed flashes of being a legit rim protector, swatting shots left and right during crucial moments of the game. His presence allows the Heat to experiment with bigger lineups, where Bam Adebayo could move to the four, letting Ware anchor the paint.

Offensively, Ware’s got the tools to stretch defenses, making him more than just a defensive asset. He can knock down mid-range shots and even step beyond the arc when needed, which adds a dynamic element to Miami’s floor spacing. He might not have the immediate star power of some other rookies, but with the Heat’s developmental track record, it wouldn’t be shocking to see Ware become one of the draft’s biggest steals. If he keeps progressing, Miami might have found themselves a diamond in the rough.

2. Ryan Dunn

Ryan Dunn is quickly proving that he might be a hidden gem for the Phoenix Suns . While many had low expectations given his offensive struggles in college—where he hit only 12 threes in two seasons at Virginia—he’s already making noise in the preseason. Dunn’s defensive prowess was never in doubt, but the real surprise has been his newfound confidence from three-point range. He’s been letting it fly without hesitation, which is crucial for a team like the Suns, who need defensive role players that can also space the floor. His shooting performance against the Kings and then the Pistons, where he knocked down 2 of 6 from deep, scored 10 points, and added 4 rebounds and 2 blocks, is an early sign that Dunn could be a key piece for the Suns this season. In his last preseason game against the Nuggets, he put up 20 points on 6 threes made, almost the same amount he did in his last season at the NCAA level.

Defensively, Dunn’s value is undeniable. Standing 6’6” with a massive 7’2” wingspan, he’s built to guard the league’s toughest wings. This is exactly what the Suns need, given that their stars—Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal—will be carrying the bulk of the offensive load. The Suns were solid defensively last year, but they’ve lacked a true modern wing defender. Dunn’s ability to cover multiple positions could be game-changing, especially when facing elite players like Luka Doncic or Anthony Edwards. The Suns can’t afford to rely solely on their stars to guard those matchups, and that’s where Dunn steps in.

One of the most exciting things about Dunn is how seamlessly he’s fitting into the Suns’ rotation. Coach Mike Budenholzer has been giving him minutes alongside Booker, Durant, and Beal, which speaks volumes about the team’s trust in the rookie. The Suns’ coaching staff is clearly experimenting with Dunn’s role, and his defensive skills make him the ideal candidate to complement their star-studded lineup. If he continues to improve his shooting, he could earn a permanent spot in the rotation, playing 15-20 minutes a game as the Suns push for title contention.

From my perspective, Dunn’s ability to contribute right away makes him one of the most underrated rookies in this class. His defense is already elite, and if his three-point shooting continues to improve, he’s going to be a nightmare for opposing teams. The Suns need exactly what Dunn brings: young legs, defensive intensity, and the willingness to do the dirty work. He may not be the flashiest player, but by season’s end, I wouldn’t be surprised if people start calling him the steal of the draft. Phoenix has a real shot at making a deep run, and Dunn could be one of the unsung heroes who helps them get there.

3. Jared McCain

Jared McCain has showed out for the 76ers in the preseason, and he’s looking more confident with every game. His debut against the New Zealand Breakers was impressive, as he dropped 15 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, and dished out 3 assists in just 28 minutes. What really stood out was his ability to hit from deep, knocking down 4 of 9 three-pointers. This was a big step for McCain, especially after a shaky Summer League where his shooting didn’t live up to expectations. After three games, he also started in the last one against the Celtics, scoring 20 points in 32 minutes.

McCain’s confidence from beyond the arc is something the 76ers desperately need, especially with their stars like Joel Embiid and Paul George handling the bulk of the offensive load. McCain has been given the green light to shoot, and he’s making the most of it. His ability to hit step-back triples and even execute "no-dip" shots—where he catches the ball high and shoots without bringing it down—is a difficult skill to master, but McCain is showing that he’s got the range and the mechanics to be a legitimate scoring threat.

Beyond his shooting, McCain's role with the 76ers is likely to expand due to his high basketball IQ and defensive effort. He’s been praised for his scrappy play on both ends of the floor, and that’s exactly the kind of player Nick Nurse loves. McCain has already been learning from veterans like Kyle Lowry, picking up tricks of the vet, which will help him adjust to the NBA game even faster. His willingness to absorb knowledge and apply it on the court will make him a valuable asset to a team that needs depth and energy.

From my perspective, McCain could be one of the more underrated rookies this season. His defensive tenacity and ability to knock down big shots will make him a valuable piece in the 76ers' rotation. While most of the attention is on their stars, don’t be surprised if McCain sneaks up as an important contributor, especially in games where his shooting and hustle are needed to lift the second unit. If he continues to develop at this pace, McCain could become a steal for the 76ers this season.

4. Dalton Knecht

Dalton Knecht has been making waves in his three preseason games for the Los Angeles Lakers , and he looks like a major steal after falling to the 17th pick in the 2024 draft. In his preseason debut against the Timberwolves, Knecht scored 16 points, shooting 7-of-13 from the field, and tied with Austin Reaves for the team's scoring lead. His performance showed that he can be an offensive force off the bench, which is something the Lakers desperately need. Even LeBron James took notice, saying that Knecht is "ready to go" and calling him a pro—high praise from one of the greatest players in the game. In the Lakers' last game facing the Bucks, Knecht ended up with another top performance, scoring 13 and adding 8 boards.

What makes Knecht even more intriguing is his readiness to contribute immediately, largely due to his age and experience. At 23, he's more polished than some of the younger rookies, which is exactly what the Lakers were looking for. He’s shown a strong ability to score at all three levels, from knocking down mid-range jumpers to hitting threes, even though he had some rookie mistakes in his first few games. Still, head coach JJ Redick seems ready to give him the chance to work through those, making it clear that the Lakers trust him to be part of their rotation.

Knecht’s potential impact isn’t just on offense. While he’s not yet an elite defender, his size and length could allow him to bother opposing players on the wing. If he can continue hitting threes at a decent clip and provide some defensive presence, he could carve out a significant role in a Lakers lineup that’s deep with wings like Rui Hachimura and Max Christie. His versatility and shooting could be key in stretching the floor for the Lakers' stars.

Personally, I think Knecht is set to be one of the Lakers' most valuable role players this season. His scoring ability and readiness to contribute will fill a critical need for depth on the wing, especially as the Lakers look to make a deep playoff run. If he continues to grow and improve, he could easily become one of the biggest surprises of this rookie class, helping the team in their quest to return to title contention.

5. Rob Dillingham

Rob Dillingham has already shown why the Timberwolves went all-in to trade with the Spurs on draft night to grab him at the No. 8 spot. After three games, his preseason debut facing the Lakers was huge, as Dillingham exploded for 21 points and 4 assists, showing his quick scoring ability and dynamic playmaking. With Mike Conley’s age becoming a factor, Dillingham could see his minutes increase significantly throughout the season, giving the Timberwolves another spark in the backcourt.

The rookie’s game revolves around his crafty ball-handling and ability to score from anywhere on the court. Whether it’s driving to the basket or pulling up from beyond the arc, Dillingham has shown he’s not afraid to take control offensively. His 9-for-20 shooting in his debut proves that he can fill up the stat sheet, even in a crowded guard rotation. His quick decision-making and creativity with the ball make him a valuable asset, especially when the Timberwolves need energy off the bench.

Another reason Dillingham stands out is his potential to take over some of Conley’s responsibilities as the veteran point guard ages. Conley has been instrumental in running the Wolves' offense, but Dillingham’s aggressive style and scoring mindset could allow him to ease into that role over time. His youth and speed bring a new dimension to Minnesota’s backcourt, making him an ideal candidate to share minutes with Conley or eventually replace him in the rotation.

In my opinion, Dillingham’s confidence and offensive prowess make him a perfect fit for Minnesota’s long-term plans. As Conley’s minutes decrease, Dillingham could become a key piece in the Timberwolves' future, bringing much-needed depth and explosiveness off the bench. If he continues to develop his decision-making and improves defensively, he might quickly become one of the most important players for the Timberwolves in the coming years.

Related: JJ Redick Impressed with Lakers' Rookie Dalton Knecht Through Preseason Games

6. Zaccharie Risacher

As the No. 1 pick, Zaccharie Risacher shouldn’t be flying under the radar, but he’s been met with a lot of skepticism. People didn’t see him as a "generational talent," and his European style had folks doubting how he'd fit in the NBA. But amid the criticism, he’s already proving that he could be better than expected. His preseason debut for the Hawks was a solid statement—dropping 18 points on 7-of-9 shooting, showing his all-around skill set and calm on the court. Last night, he made another statement with 14 points and 8 rebounds against the 76ers, keeping that same momentum.

Risacher might not have the explosive athleticism some wanted from a top pick, but his game is built on fundamentals and versatility. He’s got the size, basketball IQ, and ability to impact on both ends, making him a key piece for Atlanta’s future. His smooth transition from Euro ball to the NBA is a good sign that his game is going to mesh well, even if he wasn’t the flashiest pick.

In fact, Risacher’s poised play in just his first game is a testament to why the Hawks took him at No. 1. He may have been doubted, but his ability to hit shots efficiently, rebound, and defend multiple positions should make him a valuable asset. While many didn’t have high hopes for him, this kid might just surprise everyone, especially those who questioned his selection.

Honestly, I think Risacher’s ceiling is way higher than people are giving him credit for. He’s got the tools to become a game-changer, especially for a Hawks team that’s building toward something special. He may never become an All-NBA player or the face of the franchise, but I won’t be shocked if he ends up proving all the doubters wrong and becomes a standout rookie in the 2024 season.

7. Matas Buzelis

Matas Buzelis has had eyes on him for a while, coming into the NBA with a ton of hype after dominating in the G-League and being a highly-touted high school prospect. So, while he’s not entirely underrated, he’s still flying a bit under the radar in comparison to other top Rookie of the Year candidates. But here’s the thing—he’s going to be even better than most people expect. His length, versatility, and all-around game make him a potential star, and he could easily outplay expectations in his rookie year.

Buzelis has the skills to become a top contender for ROTY. His performances in the G-League showcased his ability to score, defend, and facilitate, all while playing against tougher competition. Even though people recognize his talent, there’s still room for him to surprise everyone with just how impactful he can be. With his size, smooth game, and adaptability, Buzelis is poised to thrive in the NBA and prove he’s more than just hype.

He also showed off his killer instinct during his two games of preseason, putting up 12 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists in 20 minutes against the Cavaliers in his first game, and scored 15 points on the Bucks last night. His confidence is off the charts, and you can tell he has that mentality of wanting to be the best on the court every time. With DeMar DeRozan gone, the Bulls are going to lean heavily on him to fill that small forward spot in the starting lineup. Plus, the fact that he slipped out of the top 10 in the draft was a surprise, only fueling his hunger to prove people wrong.

From what I see, Buzelis has all the tools to be a standout right away. He’s versatile, he can guard multiple positions, and he has the potential to be an elite scorer. It’s easy to overlook him because of his draft position, but don’t be shocked if he ends up being one of the best rookies in the league this season. Keep an eye on this kid—he’s going to exceed expectations big time.

8. Tidjane Salaun

I’ve been really surprised by how well Tidjane Salaun has been shooting from three in the preseason so far. In his three preseason games with the Hornets , he’s been knocking down triples with unexpected consistency. For example, he went 3-for-5 from deep in his debut against the Knicks, finishing with 11 points in 22 minutes. Even in their win over the Heat, he hit another three 3-pointers and ended the night with 15 points, showing that his shot is much more reliable than I initially thought.

What’s catching everyone’s attention is not just his shooting but how many minutes he’s getting from the Hornets. He’s been on the floor a lot more than expected, and it's clear that the team is testing him to see if he’s more NBA-ready than people gave him credit for. At 19, there were concerns that he might be too raw, but his composure and shooting touch are proving he could contribute sooner than anticipated.

Salaun has been compared to Giannis in some ways—long, athletic, and viewed as a bit "unpolished" coming into the league. However, unlike Giannis at the start of his career, Salaun’s three-point shooting is already a weapon, and his feel for the game looks more advanced than people thought. His handle and off-ball movement have improved since summer league, and he’s starting to look more refined with each game.

Given the way he's been playing, Salaun could quickly earn a regular spot in the Hornets' rotation. With his combination of shooting, length, and athleticism, he might surprise even more people as the season progresses, showing that he’s a lot further along in his development than most predicted. Keep an eye on him—he’s definitely one of those rookies who could make an impact early.

9. Zach Edey

Zach Edey has sparked plenty of debate over his fit in the NBA, mainly because of his old-school playing style and the fact that he’s entering the league as a senior after dominating the NCAA. His game, built around traditional post play, rebounding, and defense, has led some to draw comparisons to Jahlil Okafor—another dominant college big man who struggled to adapt to the modern NBA. Critics worry that Edey’s skill set might not translate as well in today’s faster, more perimeter-oriented league.

However, being on the Memphis Grizzlies , Edey has a unique opportunity to carve out a niche role, especially playing alongside Ja Morant. Edey’s size (7'4") and athleticism make him an ideal candidate for a role similar to Steven Adams—dominating the boards, setting hard screens, and protecting the rim. His height alone gives him an advantage in securing rebounds and contesting shots, and with someone like Morant, who loves throwing alley-oops, Edey could thrive in pick-and-roll situations.

Edey’s preseason has been quiet so far judging by his first couple of games, but he gave flashes of his true potential every here and there. The third one, against the Bulls, though, was a different story. Edey started and ended up with 15 points and 8 boards while going head-to-head against Nikola Vucevic. And last night was the cherry on top, with 23 points and 9 rebounds against the Pacers.

Additionally, while his post game is traditional, Edey has shown enough mobility and intelligence to adapt, and he has the potential to be an interior force on both ends of the court. He may not stretch the floor like some modern bigs, but his ability to finish around the rim and his defensive presence will be invaluable in certain lineups. In my opinion, while the skepticism is understandable, Edey has the tools to surprise people, especially if he embraces a role like Adams and focuses on what he does best—dominating in the paint.

10. Oso Ighodaro

Oso Ighodaro has been a surprising standout for the Phoenix Suns during the preseason, especially considering the doubts surrounding his transition to the NBA. As a senior coming out of Marquette, many expected him to be a developmental player, but he's been logging more minutes than anticipated and showing he’s ready to contribute. In his four preseason games, Ighodaro has displayed an impressive mix of defensive hustle, rebounding, and even playmaking, finishing a game with 12 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists in 27 minutes against the Lakers.

What has really caught everyone off guard is how well-rounded his game looks. Known more for his defense and athleticism, Ighodaro has also flashed some solid offensive skills, including good court vision and improved shooting. The Suns, who acquired him with the 40th pick after some trade maneuvering, are giving him a real shot to carve out a rotation role. His energy, combined with his defensive versatility, has proven valuable in the preseason.

While he wasn’t a highly touted prospect heading into the draft, Ighodaro is quickly proving that he can be more than just a depth piece. His ability to switch on defense, disrupt passing lanes, and push the ball in transition has been a pleasant surprise for the Suns. He’s clearly a player with a strong work ethic, and it wouldn’t be shocking to see him get significant minutes as the season goes on. If he continues this development, Ighodaro might be a sleeper rookie who can make an impact earlier than expected.

Related: Ja Morant Wants To Dunk On Grizzlies Rookie Zach Edey