Rookie of the Year: Evan Mobley — Cleveland Cavaliers

Odds: +250

You could make a case for Scottie Barnes and Cade Cunningham for Rookie of the Year if the season ended today, but Evan Mobley has really stood out amongst the rest of this year’s draft class. The Cavaliers rookie has been fantastic on both ends of the floor and may wind up being a big reason why they potentially make the playoffs. 

While Mobley has missed time due to an elbow injury, he has played in 18 games and is currently averaging 14.5 points, 8.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 0.9 steals, 1.9 blocks and is shooting 49.0% from the floor on the season. 

Next to Jarrett Allen in the Cavs’ frontcourt, Evan Mobley has helped create one of the lengthiest big man pairings in the league and he himself possesses some of the best athleticism for a big man in this league. With a 7’4” wingspan, Mobley is able to contest virtually any shot taken against him and seems to be able to score with ease once he gets in the paint. 

Amongst all rookies, Evan Mobley ranks second in scoring, second in rebounding, second in field goal percentage (min. 100 attempts) and first in blocks, but the most important category that he ranks tied for first in win shares and second in Player Efficiency Rating out of all rookies who play a big role on their team. 

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A case can easily be made for Scottie Barnes to be the early season Rookie of the Year and rightfully so, but there is more of an upside with Evan Mobley in Cleveland to run away with this award, especially since Collin Sexton is out for the year.