Rookies Who Could Shake Up the NBA | NBA News

NBA playoff hopes are heating up even before the season tips off, as rookies and lottery picks could shake up the standings. Charlotte Hornets, trading LaMelo Ball, are banking on Hannes Steinbach and others to lead a playoff push after a strong finish last year. Oklahoma City Thunder welcome Aday Mara to bolster their defense and rebounding behind Isaiah Hartenstein. Atlanta’s Kingston Flemings, a savvy playmaker, could thrive alongside Jalen Johnson and CJ McCollum. Utah Jazz need Darryn Peterson to step up as their go-to scorer to unlock their full potential under Coach Will Hardy. And Washington Wizards’ top pick AJ Dybantsa, joining Trae Young and Anthony Davis, is poised to be a two-way force in a deep, competitive rotation — making them serious playoff contenders. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/efd86521cc7494a1