Ranking the top three NBA rookies from preseason action

“I was super excited for the game,” Risacher said after the Hawks’ win over the Pacers. “Just like the process with training camp and everything, it was the start of something great, I think. I want to be good for my teammates, so I’m glad it went well.”

Humble words for a top draft choice. If Risacher continues to grow and remains committed to improving the team, the Hawks’ future could be bright.

No. 2: Stephon Castle

Stephon Castle’s preseason stats with the San Antonio Spurs might not jump off the page, but it’s the total package that’s so enticing. He’s the NBA equivalent of a five-tool player in baseball. Need a wrench, screwdriver, level or power drill? No problem. He’s got you covered. His toolbelt hangs heavy on the hip.

Through three preseason games, Castle has showcased a better-than-advertised burst to the rim, often blowing by opposing wings with ease. His jumper has been on point (connecting on 42.9% from deep) and his court vision has been outstanding, as he shown the ability to make solid swing passes from the perimeter and effective kick-outs off drives to the rack. 

On defense, Castle has been disruptive, jumping passing lanes and mucking things up. What’s truly stood out, though, is his relentless motor. His energy is nonstop and contagious. It’s had a noticeable drip-down effect on the Spurs.

We’re only a few games into the preseason, but Castle’s floor already looks like a longer, more athletic Derrick White. However, his ceiling has risen. If he continues to develop, he has the potential to become the next Jimmy Butler — an all-round winner capable of earning multiple All-Star selections.

No. 1: Rob Dillingham

In typical rookie fashion, Minnesota Timberwolves guard Rob Dillingham’s first and third preseason games were night and day. Against the Lakers, he dropped 21 points while hitting 50% from deep, cutting through the defense in pick-and-roll and isolation sets with ease. Facing a motivated Knicks squad, though, he struggled, shooting just 1-for-9 as New York’s backcourt bodied him up. Sandwiched between these performances was Dillingham’s best game, offering a glimpse of why the Timberwolves should be excited about his potential.

Against the Philadelphia 76ers, Dillingham’s shot wasn’t falling, but he didn’t hang his head, avoiding the temptation to force up contested shots. Instead, he shifted into a play-making role, dishing out nine assists. He demonstrated excellent court vision, delivering clean dimes out of the pick-and-roll and making the simple swing passes to wide open shooters on the perimeter that many rookies overlook. Defensively, he was also active, recording three steals and grabbing four rebounds.

Dillingham is one of the few impact freshmen on a true championship contender. In the loaded Western Conference, where a single loss could be the difference between a No. 1 and No. 3 seed, there’s little room for freshman mistakes. 

Minutes will be hard to earn for Dillingham, with a Rookie of the Year Award all but impossible. Dillingham might even find himself buried at the end of the bench as the season progresses. Still, five years down the line, the Kentucky product could very well emerge as the top player from this rookie class.