American media evaluates the top three dark horses for the Rookie of the Year award: Yang Hanshen is among them, and guards from the Thunder and Nets are also on the list.

On August 14, Beijing time, *Sports Illustrated* announced three dark horses for the 2025-26 season who are likely to contend for the Rookie of the Year award. Chinese player Yang Hanshen is included, along with Thunder guard Topić and Nets guard Traore.

According to the latest odds, Mavericks' number one pick Flagg is the frontrunner for the Rookie of the Year with odds of -185, followed by Harper at +900, and Bailey at +950. Others like VJ Edcom and Trey Johnson follow behind. While high draft picks often have a better chance of winning the Rookie of the Year trophy, there is also potential for dark horses. Below is *Sports Illustrated*'s analysis of three potential dark horse rookies, with the odds for winning the Rookie of the Year in parentheses—

Yang Hanshen, Trail Blazers (+4000)

Among the three dark horse candidates for Rookie of the Year, Trail Blazers center Yang Hanshen may have the best chance. Here are a few reasons why.

Yang Hanshen was drafted much higher than expected, being selected 16th overall by Portland. While most people didn’t think he was worth a mid-first round pick, the Trail Blazers clearly had a different opinion, which suggests he might receive more playing time than anticipated.

Secondly, Yang Hanshen has the talent. He comes from the CBA, and although he moves relatively slowly, he possesses excellent basketball instincts as a center. He can score inside, has a nice mid-range shooting touch, and boasts one of the best passing abilities we've seen among big men. If he can keep up defensively, he has a chance to break into the Trail Blazers' rotation.

Finally, his playing style is highly entertaining, which will certainly influence the voting for Rookie of the Year.

Topić, Thunder (+10000)

Nikola Topić was selected 12th overall in the first round of the 2024 draft. Due to a torn ACL before the draft, he missed the entire championship season with the Thunder. However, before his injury, he was considered one of the top players in his class, and as a "skillful rookie," he still has the potential to regain his form next season.

This Serbian guard has an excellent understanding of the game, capable of driving to the basket and finishing, while also passing and orchestrating the offense with great stability. In the Summer League, he averaged the highest assists in the Las Vegas Summer League with 7.3 per game, showcasing his outstanding ability to penetrate.

The only obstacle Topić faces may be playing time, as he joins one of the best rotation teams in the league. The Thunder need a backup point guard, but there are other options besides Topić. However, if he can secure a spot in the rotation, his performances could shine brightly.

Traore, Nets (+10000)

Nolan Traore, a guard for the Nets, is similar to Topić in that he is a speedy point guard with the potential to become a high-level scorer and playmaker. Before playing for San Quentin last season, he was considered one of the most promising players in his class, but due to insufficient progress, he was ultimately selected 19th overall.

There are many interesting aspects about Traore. He already has professional game experience, giving him an advantage over his peers, and he has also performed well in international competitions. Additionally, the Brooklyn Nets are likely to be one of the worst-performing teams in the league, providing him with ample opportunities. With scorers like Michael Porter Jr. and (likely to stay) Thomas on the team, he will have plenty of chances to orchestrate the offense.

If Traore can regain the form that made him a top-five prospect before the draft, he has a chance to win the Rookie of the Year award.