SAN ANTONIO, TX (Dec. 18, 2024) – A sudden shift has occurred in the NBA’s Rookie of the Year race following the unfortunate injury to Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain. With McCain sidelined due to knee surgery, San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle has ascended to the top of the rookie rankings.

The Sixers’ first-round pick and former front-runner underwent surgery Tuesday to repair a lateral meniscus tear in his left knee. While the team has not officially ruled it a season-ending procedure, McCain’s extended absence effectively diminishes his chances to secure Rookie of the Year honors.

In McCain’s place, Castle, the No. 4 overall pick, now sits atop the “Rookie Ladder.” Castle’s season averages of 11.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game do not immediately jump off the page, but his defensive impact and the Spurs’ improved form when he’s on the court have propelled him ahead of the pack. Even after a modest one-game performance last week (two points on 1-of-8 shooting in a loss to Minnesota), Castle’s overall value to San Antonio has emerged as a key storyline, making him the new odds-on favorite in the Rookie of the Year discussion.

McCain, who averaged 15.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists for Philadelphia, had been a bright spot on a struggling Sixers squad. Teammates and coaches praised his fearless energy and offensive spark. “I think Jared is one of a kind,” said teammate Guerschon Yabusele. “It’s definitely going to be hard [without him].”

With the frontrunner out, other contenders are also jostling for position. Yves Missi of the New Orleans Pelicans (9.2 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 1.2 bpg) is rising in the rankings, thanks to stellar per-36 numbers and a key role that makes him nearly untouchable as the trade deadline looms. Memphis Grizzlies rookie Jaylen Wells (11.4 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 1.7 apg) has earned minutes as a starter, often guarding top scorers and embracing the challenge. Meanwhile, Alexandre Sarr of the Washington Wizards (10.9 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 1.8 bpg) continues to develop his all-around game, ranking in the Top 10 among rookies in scoring, rebounds, and assists despite the team’s struggles.

Beyond these names, other first-year players like Memphis’ Zach Edey and the Lakers’ Dalton Knecht have ample time remaining this season to make their case. Still, with McCain’s misfortune, Castle’s steady presence, defensive prowess, and positive on-court influence have thrust him into the lead. As the season unfolds, the Rookie of the Year race has become Castle’s to lose, and the remaining contenders will need to raise their games to challenge the Spurs guard for the top rookie honor.