Memphis Grizzlies rookie Jaylen Wells has been named the NBA’s Western Conference Rookie of the Month for October and November, joining Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain, who earned the honor in the Eastern Conference.
Wells became the first Grizzlies player to earn Rookie of the Month since Ja Morant in 2019-20. Morant expressed how deserving his rookie teammate was to receive it. However, he acknowledged how Wells likely wants to win Rookie of the Year, not just be named top rookie in his conference for a month. Morant emphasized the need to “push” Wells to reach that potential this season.
“He’s well deserving of it,” Morant told DraftKings Network about Wells winning Western Conference Rookie of the Month. “I’m sure he’ll have plenty more, and his job is not done. I’m sure he wants the actual award and not just the month, so it’s our job to continue to push him.”
Wells, 21, has been one of the season’s top surprises after being selected No. 39 overall in the 2024 NBA Draft. He is averaging 12.2 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in 22 games while shooting 39.6% from 3-point range. His consistency earned him a starting role in Memphis’ lineup, where he has excelled. In 17 starts, he has averaged 13.3 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game.
While his shooting ability was highly touted entering the league and makes him a great fit next to Morant, Wells’ defensive versatility as a 6-foot-8 wing has made him a key piece for the Grizzlies. He has already taken on challenging assignments, guarding stars such as Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry, which has helped Memphis start 14-8.
As it stands, Wells ranks sixth in Rookie of the Year odds on DraftKings Sportsbook at +3000. He trails the favorite Jared McCain (-140), along with Dalton Knecht (+320), Stephon Castle (+850), Zaccharie Risacher (+1600), and Alex Sarr (+2500).
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