Big Easy Believer
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New Orleans Pelicans: Sleepers that could beat Zion Williamson for ROTY

By Jason Reed

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 19: Zion Williamson speaks to the media ahead of the 2019 NBA Draft at the Grand Hyatt New York on June 19, 2019 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Lawrie/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 19: Zion Williamson speaks to the media ahead of the 2019 NBA Draft at the Grand Hyatt New York on June 19, 2019 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Lawrie/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) – New Orleans Pelicans Zion Williamson
(Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) – New Orleans Pelicans Zion Williamson /

New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson might be the huge favorite to win the Rookie of the Year award, but there could absolutely be sleeper competition.

The New Orleans Pelicans won the draft lottery and were gifted the most anticipated rookie since LeBron James joined the league. Zion Williamson is the perfect face to replace Anthony Davis in the Big Easy and has every Pelican fan excited for what could be next.

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Williamson, as he was the obvious NCAA player of the year, is a large favorite to win the Rookie of the Year award. In fact, Zion is such a favorite that he actually has -135 odds, according to Odds Shark. If you are not familiar with betting lines just know that is extremely low for a season award.

There is always the chance that the NBA transition is not as easy for Zion or that the Pelicans are cautious with him and play him sparingly, which could open the door for another player to win Rookie of the Year.

If that is the case then you already know who the other favorites would be. His former Duke teammates R.J. Barrett and Cam Reddish definitely would be in the running, as would Memphis’ Ja Morant.

However, almost every year, there is a breakout rookie that ends up competing for the award. Donovan Mitchell almost won it two years ago, Malcolm Brogdon won it two years ago after being selected in the second round.

With so much attention at the top of the draft board, it would not be surprising to see a sleeper sneak his way into the discussion. Here are three potential sleepers that could end up stealing the Rookie of the Year award out of Zion Williamson’s hands.

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