NBA Rookie Talents to Watch
As the NBA season kicks off, attention is already shifting to the promising rookie talents emerging this year. While Cooper Flagg often steals the spotlight, there are several other newcomers making waves both on the hardwood and in the trading card market. Below are five standout rookies worth monitoring this season, particularly for collectors.
Standout Rookies
VJ Edgecombe
Making a remarkable entry into the league, VJ Edgecombe of the Philadelphia 76ers ignited excitement with a record-setting 34 points during his debut game, surpassing the previous mark held by Allen Iverson. This impressive performance places him among the top three best rookie debuts in NBA history. Despite only one NBA card release currently available, the demand for Edgecombe’s cards is skyrocketing. Notably, a 2025 Panini Instant NBA Draft Night autograph recently fetched a striking $6,000, with his rare card variations selling for significant sums.
Cedric Coward
Wearing the iconic No. 23 jersey is a notable privilege, and Cedric Coward has already made his mark as a rookie for the Memphis Grizzlies. Averaging 16 points per game thus far, his performance is promising, and while his cards are performing well in sales, their value has the potential to increase further as the season progresses.
Dylan Harper
The San Antonio Spurs are cultivating a formidable roster, having drafted Dylan Harper, Victor Wembanyama, and Stephon Castle in consecutive years. Harper, son of NBA alum Ron Harper, is off to a solid start with averages of 14.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.8 assists across the initial five games. His trading cards are among the most sought after at present, demonstrating a robust collector interest.
Kon Knueppel
While Kon Knueppel has not yet received the same accolades as his college teammate Flagg, as the fourth overall draft pick, he is carving out his niche with an eye for three-pointers. His card sales have included notable collaborations with Flagg’s cards, and if he maintains his shooting consistency, there’s promise for an increase in his card market value.
Tre Johnson
Fans of the Washington Wizards have reason to be excited about Tre Johnson. In his initial four games, Johnson is averaging 14.8 points, establishing himself effectively on the court. Interestingly, his rookie cards, which have just debuted alongside the release of 2025-26 Topps Basketball, are considered undervalued despite his potential. Collectors might find that many of his rare card editions remain pleasantly accessible.
Conclusion
As the season unfolds and additional card releases hit the market, expect shifts in both performance and collector interest. Keep these rookies on your radar, as their development is poised to redefine the trading card hobby landscape for the 2025-26 season.
