LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers ranked Blake Griffin as one of the best rookies.
In the San Antonio Spurs’ historic victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night, youngster Victor Wembanyama finished with 27 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists, 5 steals, and 5 blocks. Even though the Lakers prevailed, Wembanyama’s performance garnered media attention.
When asked about Wembanyama following the game, LeBron James of the Lakers mentioned his exceptional ability to influence the game as a rookie while also mentioning a few other rookies who entered the league at a very high level. James said,
“Zion [Williamson], Luka [Doncic], Kyrie [Irving], Anthony Davis, Blake Griffin, Tyreke Evans. It’s been a lot of guys that have been great this fast. [Wembanyama] is one of them,”
LeBron James says Victor Wembanyama “has no ceiling” and also rattled off some of the most impressive rookies he’s seen in his career: Zion Williamson, Anthony Davis, Blake Griffin, Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving and Tyreke Evans among them pic.twitter.com/qkgtvf2E6m
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 24, 2024
James took care to acknowledge Blake Griffin, a legend of the Los Angeles Clippers, as one of the contemporary age rookies that dominated the NBA in their debut campaign, expressing his respect for him. Griffin had one of the best rookie seasons ever, averaging 22.5 PPG, 12.1 RPG, and 3.8 APG. He is still the only rookie to make the All-Star squad.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Elgin Baylor, and Griffin are the only rookies in NBA history to average at least 22 points per game, 12 rebounds, and 3 assists. The Clippers, who can credit Griffin’s quick development for much of their present success, were in dire need of a spark this season.
