Arguments for Trae Young Over Luka Doncic for Rookie of the Year

In the world of professional basketball, the debate between Trae Young and Luka Doncic for the Rookie of the Year award has been a heated discussion. While Doncic has received widespread recognition and has already claimed the award at the end of December, some argue that Trae Young deserves to have the conversation in this category. This article will explore why Trae Young should be considered for the Rookie of the Year award over his more established counterpart, Luka Doncic.

Why Luka Doncic Already Won the Award

It's no secret that Luka Doncic has dominated the Rookie of the Year conversation from the very beginning of the NBA season. By the end of December, Doncic's superior performance and statistics have allowed him to lock in the award, making it extremely difficult for any other player, including Trae Young, to challenge for it.

Behind the Scenes: The Loathing and Prestige

Underpinning the talk is a mix of envy and favoritism. Some players in the NBA find it frustrating when ‘outsiders’ like Trae Young, who do not come from the traditional pipelines of success, receive recognition. This sentiment is not just confined to on-court performances but also extends to the monetary rewards that come with the award.

For instance, there is a notable example of this sentiment in the rivalry between Trae Young and Blake Griffin. Both players graduated from the same college, and Griffin's support for Trae Young for the award is a significant factor in the ongoing debate. Griffin, a former NBA All-Star and now a pundit, has a vested interest in seeing Young succeed, likely because they share a similar background in their non-traditional paths to NBA stardom.

Statistical Analysis: The Numbers Game

From a statistical standpoint, Trae Young is not far behind Luka Doncic. Using a similar set of metrics, we can observe the gap between the two rookies. For instance, if we look at scoring, assists, and game-changing plays, Young is able to compete on equal footing with Doncic.

Scoring:

Trae Young: 29.6 points per game Luka Doncic: 28.4 points per game

Assists:

Trae Young: 8.6 assists per game Luka Doncic: 8.8 assists per game

Game-Changing Plays:

Trae Young: 9.2 per game Luka Doncic: 5.1 per game

While the numbers do show a slight edge for Doncic in many categories, Trae Young's impressive averages in crucial buckets like assists and game-changing plays give him a strong case for contention.

Media Attention and Show Business

Another reason why Trae Young still deserves recognition is the sheer impact he has had on the media and public discourse. Reporters and television shows often lean towards discussing players who invoke emotional reactions or bring something new to the table. Young's unique style, electrifying dunks, and charismatic personality have easily filled this niche. Media attention is significant, as it translates into more watching hours and engagement, which can benefit the league and its stakeholders.

Conclusion: A Fresh Voice in the NBA

Ultimately, the argument for Trae Young over Luka Doncic is not just about statistics or media presence. It's about recognizing a fresh voice in the NBA, someone who is not afraid to break the mold and bring a new perspective to the game. Trae Young embodies the spirit of the modern NBA, with his dynamic playstyle and infectious personality. It's time to shine a light on his contributions and consider him for the prestigious Rookie of the Year award.