Sexton, Ayton selected as ROY favorites in 2018 rookie survey
The 2018 rookie class took part in John Schuhmann's annual survey during the NBA's rookie transition program this week.
The Phoenix Suns' Deandre Ayton and Cleveland Cavaliers' Collin Sexton were selected as co-favorites to earn next season's Rookie of the Year honors, both earning 18 percent of the vote.
While Ayton was the No. 1 overall pick, Sexton should have a shot. Looking back, there is a strong track record of point guards on young teams earning the award: Damian Lillard in 2012-13, Kyrie Irving in 2011-12, Derrick Rose in 2008-09, and Chris Paul in 2005-06.
Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic and New York Knicks wing Kevin Knox tied for third, each receiving nine percent of the vote.
In a surprising twist, Doncic did not receive one vote in the best career category. Chicago Bulls' big man Wendell Carter Jr. was the favorite while earning 13 percent of the vote. Knox and Los Angeles Clippers shooting guard Jerome Robinson were the runners-up, each finishing with 10 percent of the vote.
Other notable winners include Trae Young, who ran away with the best shooter category, earning 47 percent of the vote.
Memphis Grizzlies' Jevon Carter backed up his reputation as the draft's best defender, receiving 29 percent of the vote in that category.