Rookie Watch Vol. 12: Stephon Castle Shines, Jaylen Wells Impresses and Risacher’s Hot Shooting

In Rookie Watch Volume 12 of the Locked On NBA Big Board Podcast, hosts Rafael and James Barlowe revisit their thoughts on the 2024 NBA Draft class, which was widely considered weak. They discuss whether their perception has changed and highlight some standout rookies.Stephon Castle headlines the conversation as the front-runner for Rookie of the Year. The Barlowe brothers then turn their attention to Memphis Grizzlies rookie Jaylen Wells, who, as a second-round pick, has far exceeded expectations and is now a starter for a Memphis team sitting third in the Western Conference.Next, they break down Zaccharie Risacher’s recent hot shooting, a promising sign for the No. 1 overall pick. They also discuss Chicago Bulls rookie Matas Buzelis, whose increased minutes have played a key role in Chicago’s four-game winning streak.Alex Sarr, the No. 2 pick, has had an up-and-down start, struggling with efficiency, but Rafael explains why he remains high on Sarr’s long-term potential. The episode wraps up with a look at Utah Jazz rookies Cody Williams, Isaiah Collier, and Kyle Filipowski. While Williams has been a major disappointment, Collier and Filipowski have exceeded expectations, emerging as potential steals for the Jazz.Thoughts on the 2024 Draft Class – 2:00Stephon Castle’s ROY Case – 4:00Jaylen Wells Exceeding Expectations in Memphis – 11:59Zaccharie Risacher’s Hot Shooting Stretch – 15:45Matas Buzelis’ Increased Role in Chicago – 18:51Alex Sarr’s Struggles and Long-Term Outlook – 24:23Utah Jazz Rookies (Cody Williams, Isaiah Collier, Kyle Filipowski) – 28:26Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo TaxReady for stress-free taxes and the most money back, guaranteed? Head over to TurboTax.com today and get matched with your Expert. Only available with TurboTax Live Full Service. Real-time updates only in the iOS mobile app. See guarantee details at TurboTax.com/guarantees.WayFairAfter the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. SKIMSShop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows.OpenPhoneThe #1 business phone system designed to help you keep your work and personal life separate. Right now, OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months when you go to OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. and if you have existing numbers with another service, OpenPhone will port them over at no extra charge!Door DashThey Swoosh, You Save: when any player scores 50 or more points in a game during the 24/25 NBA regular season, DashPass members save 50% on an order, up to $10 off with promo code NBA50. 50% Off 1 Order (Up to $10 Off)Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/.Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.FanDuelRight now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.