Southeast Division
Atlanta Hawks: SF Saddiq Bey ($4.6 million)
A compelling case could be made for an emergent Jalen Johnson, but his injury complicates that selection. Meanwhile, Saddiq Bey is quietly having a good season for the Atlanta Hawks, averaging 12.4 points and 5.8 rebounds per game while emerging as one of the league's best two-point shooting wings. Restricted free agency awaits at the end of Bey's last year of his rookie deal.
Charlotte Hornets: C Mark Williams ($3.9 million)
The Charlotte Hornets have not taken the requisite step forward this season and LaMelo Ball's injury won't help. Big man Mark Williams has been a positive, though, averaging a double-double in his second season in the league. He's also become one of the league's best shooters near the rim, hitting 65.3 percent of his shots. Charlotte exercised his option for next season, which will see him make only slightly more.
Miami Heat: SF Jaime Jaquez Jr. ($3.5 million)
In November, Jaime Jaquez Jr. became the first Miami Heat player to win Rookie of the Month since Kendrick Nunn in 2020. The UCLA product is averaging 12 points and 3.9 rebounds per game. That rookie contract should help the Heat as they continue to try to take advantage of Jimmy Butler's elite window.
Orlando Magic: SF Franz Wagner ($5.5 million)
Franz Wagner has been the best player during the upstart Orlando Magic's nice run to start the season. Wagner is averaging 20.7 points and 5.8 rebounds per game, despite struggling with his shot more than usual (which should level out). He's also been playing strong defense. Wagner still has another year to go on his rookie deal before restricted free agency.
Washington Wizards: SF Deni Avdija ($6.3 million)
The Washington Wizards are abysmal, but former lottery pick Deni Avdija is having his best season at the perfect time for him. The Israeli is averaging 12.3 points and 3.7 assists per game while hitting a career-high 38.5 percent from three. Washington signed Avdija to a four-year, $55 million extension set to kick in next season, which will pay an average of $13.7 million a year.