Just like every other award, fans of the basketball community all over the world are as eager as can be to see who will take home the league’s Rookie of the Year. Many prominent figures who are, or will be, superstars, such as Cooper Flagg, Victor Wembanyama, and Cade Cunningham, to name a few, have won it over the years. In the coming season, some of the favorites are AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer, and Caleb Wilson.
Regarding the LA Clippers, their fifth overall pick, Keaton Wagler, is nowhere near the top of the list, despite being selected relatively high in the lottery. That’s absurd, as when factoring in how well he performed in the summer league, as well as the extremely beneficial situation he is in, Wagler’s chances should be a lot higher than they are.
That’s okay, though. Soon, when the 2026-27 regular season is wrapped up, Clipper Nation will hold on to the receipts and won’t be able to do anything but laugh at the low expectations on Wagler’s shoulders.
Keaton Wagler has a realistic shot at taking home the Rookie of the Year
Although Keaton Wagler is in a class that is regarded as generational, claiming he can take home the Rookie of the Year award is by no means a stretch. Will it be easy? Absolutely not. Players like AJ Dybantsa and Caleb Wilson are going to dominate in their respective situations from start to finish. However, Wagler has it made for him to walk away with the coveted award.
First and foremost, Wagler’s skill set is close to flawless. He can score from all three levels efficiently, make plays for his teammates to the highest degree, and hold his ground defensively, whether that’s crashing the glass or locking down the player he’s guarding.
Now, look at what’s around him: a championship head coach in Tyronn Lue, a star point guard to learn from in Darius Garland, multiple big men that complement his playstyle, and an organization that’s going to prioritize his development.
These two key factors, along with the veteran mindset he displayed in the summer league, make it evident that in the grand scheme of things, Wagler can be the one to have his name announced on the big stage and make the doubters look silly.
All he has to do is remain consistent, grow from each mistake he encounters, and be himself.
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