Being so early in the NBA season it's difficult to determine who will turn out to be the best rookie in this year's draft. Being on a winning team certainly helps garner the exposure. Yet who will be the top player to have the biggest impact? I have to admit even though I don't know much about Derrick Rose he'll benefit significantly by being on the Bulls. They have the best shot at clinching a seed in the playoffs opposed to other struggling teams in the past few years like the Grizzles, Bobcats, and Heat. Surrounded by a good mix of talent in Chicago will bring out Rose's main attributes and enable him to develop his fundamental skills further.
Looking throughout the Eastern conference the only other big name which surfaces is Michael Beasley. The sole fact he's playing alongside Dwayne Wade will boost his game. On the other hand, the franchise is in a redevelopment state at the moment and have their share of work ahead of them. After departing with veteran keystones that included James Posey, Shaq, and Antoine Walker a few years ago the Heat have been on the rebound ever since. With Beasley as the starting power forward Miami must try to get back to their once effective inside game. In the Southeast division they'll have to overcome the Magic, Hawks, and Wizards.
Over in the West the Grizzles have a solid first-year pickup in O.J. Mayo. Unfortunately, the rookie is on a crummy team which is destined to finish near the bottom of the league. I will give Memphis the edge over the newly formed Oklahoma City Thunder, who are in dire need of veteran leaders and restructure. Being an expected standout this season, Mayo is likely to have breakout performances given ample playing time. Still this won't be enough in my view to make him Rookie of the Year. Now when considering a wildcard like the Blazers' Greg Oden such a race can get interesting. Since the former Ohio State center missed all of last year, he is actually being noted as a rookie.
Depending on his health and ability to avoid long-term injuries this year Oden may very well be the extra ingredient Portland needs to capture a playoff spot. That's if he can be productive with enough games under his belt. With the pool of young talent there: Roy, Outlaw, Aldridge, and Frye, the Blazers are a threat in the West. They hit a 41-41 mark in 07-08 which was a gradual improvement from previous seasons. A new goal can be set with all hands on board as the Trail Blazers will try to push pass a .500 record and make strides in franchise history. In order for that to happen Greg Oden must be present. I think if the big man is then he has a legitimate chance at winning the ROY award. Otherwise with momentum there lost the decision will sway more so toward Derrick Rose.
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