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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 Elsa/Getty Images) – New Orleans Pelicans Zion Williamson
(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) – New Orleans Pelicans Zion Williamson /

2. P.J. Washington

P.J. Washington is more realistic to win the Rooke of the Year award than Culver, at least in my eyes, but he comes in second on this slideshow because of his odds and draft position. Washington was picked six picks later than Culver and has 100/1 odds to win the award.

It would take a lot for Washington to win the award, but man would that be a nice payday for somehow who I think isn’t that far-fetched to pick to win the award this season.

The writing is absolutely on the wall for Washington to have some sort of fantastic season in the way that Mitchell did with the Utah Jazz two years ago. Washington is coming to the Charlotte Hornets a year after their star left them in Kemba Walker and joins a team with nice pieces, but no real star.

Mitchell joined the Utah Jazz right after Gordon Hayward left the team, which undoubtedly had an impact on how good Mitchell could be in his rookie year.

If Washington shows the prowess to succeed early on, the Hornets will absolutely make him the main focus, which can lead to a great year. Plus, it helps to be a late-lottery pick and having a good year as the narrative is just as important in the voting.

Washington averaged 15.2 points and 7.6 rebounds per game with Kentucky in college. More importantly, the forward shot 42. 3 percent of the line, showing he can be a lethal shooter.

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