Rookies shine early in the 2026 NBA season
ESPN • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 5, 2026, 1:43 PM
Last updated Nov 5, 2026

Several NBA rookies have quickly made their mark in the first two weeks of the 2026 season. Caleb Wilson of the Chicago Bulls leads with 19.5 PPG and 6.5 RPG, establishing himself as a key player. Meanwhile, Cameron Boozer of the Memphis Grizzlies contributes 16.5 PPG and 9.8 RPG. Darius Acuff Jr. of the Sacramento Kings has taken charge of the offense, averaging 25.6 PPG. Others like Yaxel Lendeborg and AJ Dybantsa are also making notable contributions. The season continues to unfold, and player performances could shift as roles and team dynamics evolve.
- •Caleb Wilson averages 19.5 PPG and 6.5 RPG for the Bulls.
- •Cameron Boozer contributes 16.5 PPG, 9.8 RPG for the Grizzlies.
- •Darius Acuff Jr. scores 25.6 PPG, leads Kings offense.
- •Yaxel Lendeborg posts 21.5 PPG, 7.0 RPG for the Warriors.
- •AJ Dybantsa shows promise with 16.5 PPG in limited games.
- 1:43 PMESPN — Which rookies have stood out in the early going?
"Eric Moody highlights which rookies are standing out in the early part of the NBA season, and which are worth rostering now or down the road.
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