The number one pick in the 2016 NBA draft, Ben Simmons, and the number three pick in the 2017 draft, Jayson Tatum, are the leading candidates for the Rookie of the Year award. Tatum and Simmons both have put up stellar numbers this season to support their chances at the award.

Although Simmons was drafted in 2016, he is still considered for this award, because last season Simmons fractured his foot without playing a game, making 2017 his official rookie year. Simmons has averaged 17.2 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 7.9 apg and 2.1 spg so far this season, showing his ability to excel both offensively and defensively while on the court.

Tatum’s numbers may not be as good as Simmons’, but he might just be as important to his team than Simmons is, if not more. Tatum is only averaging 13.8 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 1.4 apg, and about 1.0 spg. Tatum has been more consistent with his numbers than Simmons has, as Simmons has struggled as of late, decreasing his averages in almost all categories while at the same time increasing his average turnovers per game.

At this point in the season, Simmons leads Tatum in the race for rookie of the year. If Tatum continues to improve his play throughout the season, and continues to positively impact his team, he will have just as good of a chance as Simmons to claim the award.