Comparing Rookie Seasons Of Victor Wembanyama, Michael Jordan, LeBron James, And Tim Duncan

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Victor Wembanyama has managed to become the frontrunner for the 2023-24 Rookie of the Year award ahead of Chet Holmgren. The Frenchman will finish the season as the NBA’s blocks leader and seems to be a superstar in the making but how does his rookie campaign compare with all-time greats Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Tim Duncan? This full comparison will give us the answer.

Points Per Game

1. Michael Jordan: 28.2 PPG (4 Points)

2. Victor Wembanyama: 21.4 PPG (3 Points)

3. Tim Duncan: 21.1 PPG (2 Points)

4. LeBron James: 20.9 PPG (1 Point)

Michael Jordan stands out with one of the most impressive rookie seasons offensively, averaging 28.2 points per game (PPG) and finishing third in PPG and first in total points scored for rookies. His rookie PPG ranks sixth-highest in NBA history, highlighting his immediate impact and dominance on the court.

Surprisingly, Victor Wembanyama follows closely behind Jordan, averaging 21.4 PPG. What makes Wembanyama’s performance even more impressive is his ability to score both inside and outside, despite his towering 7’4″ height. His versatility and scoring prowess as a rookie indicate a promising future and suggest that he could develop into a dominant force in the league.

Tim Duncan, the greatest power forward of all time, averaged 21.1 PPG during his rookie season. Despite joining a San Antonio Spurs team that already had a star in David Robinson, Duncan quickly established himself as the team’s best player, demonstrating his skill, basketball IQ, and impact on both ends of the floor.

LeBron James, who is often lauded for his exceptional playmaking abilities, posted 20.9 PPG in his rookie season. While his scoring might not be as high as Jordan’s or Wembanyama’s, it’s important to note that LeBron also served as the primary playmaker for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Rebounds Per Game

1. Tim Duncan: 11.9 RPG (4 Points)

2. Victor Wembanyama: 10.6 RPG (3 Points)

3. Michael Jordan: 6.5 RPG (2 Points)

4. LeBron James: 5.5 RPG (1 Point)

Tim Duncan averaged an impressive 11.9 rebounds per game (RPG), showcasing his prowess as a big man and establishing himself as one of the best big men in the world by his rookie year. His ability to control the glass was a significant factor in his immediate impact on the San Antonio Spurs and solidified his reputation as a complete and versatile player.

Victor Wembanyama follows Duncan closely, averaging 10.6 RPG. Standing at a towering 7’4″, Wembanyama’s height undoubtedly plays a significant role in his rebounding ability although he does not let a slender frame deter him.

Surprisingly, Michael Jordan outperforms LeBron James in rebounds during their rookie seasons. Jordan averaged 6.5 RPG, even though he played as a shooting guard and was three inches shorter than James. While his rebounding numbers may be lower compared to the other players on this list, it’s essential to recognize James’ role as a primary playmaker for the Cleveland Cavaliers, which likely impacted his opportunities to grab rebounds.

Assists Per Game

1. LeBron James: 5.9 (4 Points)

2. Michael Jordan: 5.9 (3 Points)

3. Victor Wembanyama: 3.9 (2 Points)

4. Tim Duncan: 2.7 (1 Point)

In terms of playmaking, LeBron James and Michael Jordan stand out with identical averages of 5.9 assists per game (APG) although James has a minor edge in total assists over total games. Both players, despite their primary roles as scorers, showcased their playmaking skills early in their careers. LeBron’s and Jordan’s ability to distribute the ball and create scoring opportunities for their teammates as rookies highlights their basketball IQ and all-around talent.

Victor Wembanyama, although primarily known for his scoring and rebounding, also displayed solid playmaking skills with an average of 3.9 APG during his rookie season. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game at such a young age suggests a well-rounded skill set and a promising future as a versatile player in the league.

On the other hand, Tim Duncan, as a dominant big man, averaged 2.7 APG during his rookie campaign. While his playmaking numbers might not be as high as the guards on this list, his passing ability from the post and his basketball IQ were evident.

Steals Per Game

1. Michael Jordan: 2.4 SPG (4 Points)

2. LeBron James: 1.6 SPG (3 Points)

3. Victor Wembanyama: 1.2 SPG (2 Points)

4. Tim Duncan: 0.7 SPG (1 Point)

When examining the defensive contributions of these NBA greats during their rookie seasons, Michael Jordan leads the pack with an impressive average of 2.4 steals per game (SPG). Jordan’s defensive prowess and anticipation were evident from the start of his career, reflecting his commitment to both ends of the floor and his ability to disrupt opponents’ offensive plays and he was a superstar on defense immediately.

LeBron James follows Jordan with an average of 1.6 SPG during his rookie season. His athleticism, quick hands, and basketball IQ allowed him to excel defensively, showcasing his ability to generate steals and contribute to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ defensive efforts.

Victor Wembanyama, despite his towering height, displayed solid defensive instincts with an average of 1.2 SPG during his rookie campaign. His length and agility enabled him to challenge passing lanes and disrupt opponents’ offensive sets, demonstrating his defensive potential as a versatile player.

Tim Duncan, known more for his defensive presence in the paint and shot-blocking ability, averaged 0.7 SPG during his rookie season. While his steal numbers might not be as high as the guards on this list, his overall defensive impact, including his rim protection and positional defense, was significant and played a crucial role in the San Antonio Spurs’ defensive schemes.

Blocks Per Game

1. Victor Wembanyama: 3.6 BPG (4 Points)

2. Tim Duncan: 2.5 BPG (3 Points)

3. Michael Jordan: 0.8 BPG (2 Points)

4. LeBron James: 0.7 BPG (1 Point)

When it comes to blocks, Victor Wembanyama stands out prominently with an outstanding average of 3.6 blocks per game (BPG). His towering height of 7’4″ combined with his timing and defensive instincts make him a formidable rim protector, showcasing his potential to be a defensive anchor in the league and a future Defensive Player of the Year winner.

Tim Duncan averaged 2.5 BPG during his rookie campaign. His shot-blocking ability and defensive presence in the paint were instrumental in the San Antonio Spurs’ defensive schemes, as the team finished 1st in defense and 2nd in defensive rating.

On the other hand, Michael Jordan and LeBron James, primarily known for their offensive capabilities, posted lower block numbers during their rookie seasons. Jordan averaged 0.8 BPG, while James averaged 0.7 BPG. Despite their lower block averages, both players demonstrated their defensive versatility and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor, and they will never have similar numbers when it comes to two big men.

Shooting Percentages

1. Michael Jordan: 51.5% FG, 17.3% 3P, 84.5% FT (4 Points)

2. Victor Wembanyama: 46.5% FG, 32.5% 3-PT FG, 79.6% FT (3 Points)

3. Tim Duncan: 54.9% FG, 0.0% 3P, 66.2% FT (2 Points)

4. LeBron James: 41.7% FG, 29.0% 3P, 75.4% FT (1 Point)

Michael Jordan displayed impressive scoring efficiency with a field goal percentage (FG%) of 51.5%. However, his three-point shooting percentage (3P%) was relatively low at 17.3%, while his free throw percentage (FT%) was solid at 84.5%. Despite the lower three-point percentage since nobody shot three-pointers as much as today in the 1980s, Jordan’s overall shooting efficiency and ability to score efficiently from the field contributed to his immediate impact as a scorer in the league.

Victor Wembanyama, with a FG% of 46.5%, showcased his scoring versatility both inside and outside the paint. His three-point shooting percentage (32.5%) is particularly impressive for a player of his size, indicating his ability to stretch the floor and become a threat from beyond the arc. His free throw percentage (79.6%) is also respectable, reflecting his shooting touch and potential to develop into a more consistent scorer. As Victor improves, he will be an unstoppable offensive force in a few years.

Tim Duncan, as a dominant big man, posted an impressive FG% of 54.9%. However, he did not make any three-pointers during his rookie season (0-10), which is not surprising given his position and playing style. His free throw percentage (66.2%) was lower compared to the other players on this list, highlighting an area for improvement in his offensive game.

LeBron James, despite his all-around talent and playmaking abilities, had the lowest FG% at 41.7% among the players listed. His three-point shooting percentage (29.0%) and free throw percentage (75.4%) were also lower compared to Jordan and Wembanyama. The King was certainly an inconsistent shooter coming into the league which he has corrected after over two decades in the league.

Player Efficiency Rating

1. Michael Jordan: 25.8 PER (4 Points)

2. Victor Wembanyama: 23.0 PER (3 Points)

3. Tim Duncan: 22.6 PER (2 Points)

4. LeBron James: 18.3 PER (1 Point)

When comparing the PER of these NBA legends during their rookie seasons, Michael Jordan leads the group with an impressive PER of 25.8. Jordan’s high PER reflects his immediate impact as a dominant scorer and all-around player, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly on both ends of the floor.

Victor Wembanyama follows closely with a PER of 23.0, highlighting his overall impact and efficiency as a rookie. His scoring, rebounding, and defensive contributions, combined with his versatility, contributed to his high PER and indicated his potential to develop into a well-rounded player in the league.

Tim Duncan, despite playing as a dominant big man, posted a PER of 22.6 during his rookie season. His solid contributions in scoring, rebounding, and defense, along with his efficiency on the court, reflect his immediate impact and potential as a franchise player for the San Antonio Spurs as a rookie while LeBron James was certainly not at his best during his rookie campaign despite his all-around impact.

Team Record

1. Tim Duncan: 56-26 (4 Points)

2. Michael Jordan: 38-44 (3 Points)

3. LeBron James: 35-47 (2 Points)

4. Victor Wembanyama: 22-60 (1 Point)

Tim Duncan joined a strong San Antonio Spurs team that already had David Robinson, forming a formidable Twin-Towers pairing. The Spurs finished with an impressive record of 56-26 and advanced to the second round of the playoffs, where they lost to Karl Malone and the Utah Jazz. Duncan’s immediate impact and contribution as the best player on a playoff-caliber team highlight his role as a franchise-changing player from the start of his career.

Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls had a record of 38-44 during his rookie season. Despite leading the Bulls to the playoffs, they lost in a 1-3 series to the Milwaukee Bucks. Jordan’s individual brilliance and ability to lead his team to the playoffs in his rookie season showcased his potential as a future superstar and franchise player and he certainly had one of the best rookie seasons in NBA history as a result.

LeBron James’ Cleveland Cavaliers finished with a record of 35-47, missing the playoffs during his rookie season. Despite James’ all-around contributions and impressive individual statistics, the Cavaliers’ lack of team success reflects the challenges of building a competitive team around a young and talented rookie.

Victor Wembanyama’s team had the poorest record among the players listed, with the team finishing at 22-60 and 14th in the Eastern Conference. Despite Wembanyama’s promising individual performance, he was unable to lead his team to victories, reflecting the challenges of adjusting to the NBA and the importance of team composition and support for a rookie player.

Rookie Season Standings

1. Michael Jordan – 26 Points (4 Categories Won)

2. Victor Wembanyama – 21 Points (1 Category Won)

3. Tim Duncan – 19 Points (2 Categories Won)

4. LeBron James – 14 Points (1 Category Won)

In the ultimate comparison, there is no surprise that Michael Jordan ends the debate by having the best rookie campaign out of all the players. The GOAT was already the best offensive player in the league, scoring the most total points in the NBA and also proving to be an elite perimeter defender.

Victor Wembanyama’s rookie campaign has outshone that of Tim Duncan and LeBron James, even if he had the worst team in terms of talent beside him. Duncan is not far off Wembanyama although he did benefit by playing beside David Robinson and a prime Gregg Popovich.

LeBron James had the fourth-best rookie campaign out of the stars, potentially indicating that he needed at least one or two years in the league before becoming a true superstar. James was an inconsistent shooter and there is no doubt that Wembanyama was better in that sense, along with being a better defender.

Victor Wembanyama had one of the best rookie campaigns in recent memory by being an excellent shot-blocker and all-around player and we could see a potential superstar and all-time great developing in the next few years.

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