
Impact rookiesMy 10 first-year players who'll yield quick dividendsPosted: Wednesday October 11, 2006 12:24PM; Updated: Wednesday October 11, 2006 2:42PM
Sudden impact. It's more than the name of an old Clint Eastwood film. It's what NBA rookies dream of making when they lie awake in their beds at night during training camp. But how does one define "impact"? Does it mean putting up big numbers on a bad team? Or does it entail making a positive contribution in limited minutes for a contender? Even though training camps are only a week old, it's never too early to project how the first-year players will perform. Here's a look at the 10 rookies we expect will make the biggest impact, ranked 10 through 1. Some are big names, right off the top of the draft board. Others are lesser-known, but could play a key role for a contending team. 10. Jorge Garbajosa, Raptors 9. Rajon Rondo, Celtics 8. Steve Novak, Rockets 7. Ronnie Brewer, Jazz 6. Andrea Bargnani, Raptors 5. Tyrus Thomas, Bulls 4. Shannon Brown, Cavs 3. Randy Foye, Timberwolves 2. Adam Morrison, Bobcats 1. Brandon Roy, Trail Blazers
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