As we inch closer to the 2025-26 NBA season, experts have begun weighing in on early award predictions.
One of the most anticipated is the Rookie of the Year, which is expected to have a crowded field with numerous suitors.
Many are projecting the No. 1 overall pick, Cooper Flagg, to take home the award, but other rookies could make a strong case.
ESPN’s Kevin Pelton gave his prediction for Philadelphia 76ers guard VJ Edgecomb as an intriguing wild card for the Rookie of the Year Award.
“There is a clearer path for Edgecombe if the Sixers pivot toward retaining their pick (top-four protected, otherwise headed to the Oklahoma City Thunder) instead of trying to get back in the playoffs,” Pelton explained.
Pelton did go on to acknowledge that it might be an uphill battle for Edgecombe due to the 76ers’ crowded backcourt, which features an All-Star in Tyrese Maxey and emerging stars like Jared McCain and Quentin Grimes.
He adds, “Still, the Philadelphia backcourt rotation is crowded with other talented young players. Tyrese Maxey is an All-Star, and Jared McCain was the early favorite for Rookie of the Year in this past season’s wide-open race before undergoing a season-ending meniscus injury. The 76ers will also likely re-sign restricted free agent Quentin Grimes, who averaged 21.9 PPG in 28 games in Philly after the trade deadline.”
Edgecomb is a player to watch. He demonstrated this during his time at Baylor, averaging 15.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game.
He will likely have to compete with a talented rookie class that includes other stars like Dylan Harper, Ace Bailey, Tre Johnson, and Kon Knueppel.
The 76ers will be looking to return to the playoffs after missing the postseason for the first time since 2017. With that said, if given consistent minutes, Edgecombe has a chance to be a significant impact player for the 76ers’ next season.
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