3 Rockets who could slip into an All-Rookie team selection this year

Verdict:

As much as Rockets fans want all three guys to make an All-Rookie team, that probably isn't realistic. There has been a lot of great rookies this season that have played well all year, such as Paolo Banchero and Keegan Murray.

Jalen Williams and Walker Kessler have really turned it up as of late. Jaden Ivey has thrived with Cade Cunningham out.

Benedict Mathurin was hot to start, but has tapered off recently. Jeremy Sochan and Jalen Duren have been very solid all year.

All of these guys deserve votes to be on either of the two rookie teams. Tari has been the most consistent rookie for Houston the entire year, and his tracking data shows that he has probably been the most impactful player on the team. I think if it was anybody to get selected it would be him.

Jabari has the higher potential most likely, but he has turned it up too little too late and, in my opinion, I think that will really hinder him when it comes to the voters. He may get a "high draft pick boost", voters may give him some leniency and he'll garner some votes. But, ultimately I think it may be too late for him.

My verdict? Tari Eason beats out Jabari Smith Jr. for a place on the All-Rookie 2nd team