Fresh Freshies: Checking In With The Top 3 Picks a Few Weeks In

Risacher's growth, Reed Sheppard's concern, and Alex Sarr's rollercoaster mode

Out of all the draft classes in NBA history, it appears that this year’s is one of them. That’s actually about all we know right now.

Through the start of the season, the entire rookie class been a bit strange. On one hand, just a single rookie averaged over 10 points per game in their first 8 games of the season, which is tied for the fewest freshmen since the 2000 class — that rookie was Zach Edey.

On the other hand, guys like Carlton “Bub” Carrington and Ryan Dunn are performing well, with the latter shocking fans and analysts alike with his suddenly accurate three-point shooting. So, while the on-paper look may be a little bit underwhelming, there are definitely some very good rookies in this class.

Today, I want to take a look at just the top 3 picks from the 2024 Draft and get a barometer for where they find themselves at this very early point in the season — consider this an overreaction piece, though maybe a bit more statistically backed than most. Like most drafts, there’s been a lot of good players in the latter half of the lottery and some rollercoaster rides at the top of it. Regardless, we’re going to take a look at all three players and what they are doing well and what they aren’t. Going in reverse order for dramatic effect, let’s take a look at Rockets rookie Reed Sheppard…