Cooper Flagg Tops Rookie Class as Hornets Pelicans Shine

Merlin sees the 2025 rookie class already reshaping the league after two months. Cooper Flagg is posting LeBron like early numbers at 18.8 points 6.4 rebounds and 3.5 assists and has quieted early doubts. Charlotte nailed its draft with Kon Knueppel leading rookies in scoring while Ryan Kalkbrenner and others provide real depth. New Orleans looks suddenly alive thanks to Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears. VJ Edgecombe, Will Richards and Maxime Raynaud have also stood out. Several teams lean on G League minutes and injuries have sidelined key picks like Noa Essengue and Thomas Sorber. Houston has no rookie on its roster. Merlin notes the story is still young. Minutes, shot development and health will rewrite these grades. Flagg looks the most likely to carry a team headline to the finish, but surprises from role players could upend the race.