2017-18 NBA Rookie of the Year ladder: Week 25 power rankings

The NBA Rookie of the Year race is starting to iron itself out as the final month of the 2017-18 season has begun. Here’s a look at the Week 25 ladder.

The NBA Rookie of the Year race is getting interesting. The Philadelphia 76ers are streaking at the right time as the NBA Playoffs approach. With a playoff spot clinched already, the Sixers have won 11 straight games with six games left on the schedule.

Without Joel Embiid in the lineup on Wednesday night for the second straight game, Philadelphia still made easy work of the Brooklyn Nets, winning 121-95. Behind a strong performance from Ben Simmons and company, the Philadelphia 76ers are currently fourth in the Eastern Conference approaching the final stretch of the regular season.

The Utah Jazz also are in the playoff hunt in the Western Conference. They haven’t clinched a playoff spot just yet, but now tied for the fourth-best record, they should be in the clear. Donovan Mitchell is sure to have some strong performances as the Jazz jockey for playoff position. They recently passed the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs for the fourth spot on Tuesday night. Look for some strong outings from the rookie to strengthen his position in the Rookie of the Year race.

It’s not often we’re discussing rookies leading their teams into the postseason. The landscape sure is changing. Here is the Rookie of the Year power rankings ladder for Week 25.

Honorable Mentions: Dillon Brooks, Malik Monk, De’Aaron Fox, Markelle Fultz, Lonzo Ball (injury)