So, now seems like a fine time to check out the way-too-early favorites for NBA rookie of the year in 2026-27. And several players with Michigan ties are drawing some early action at the sports books.
Among the front runners to win the award is Detroit native Darius Acuff, the former Arkansas star who was the No. 7 overall pick by the Sacramento Kings. FanDuel lists him at +450 (bet $100 to win $450), the fourth-best odds to take home the award, behind Memphis‘ Cameron Boozer (+240), Utah’s Darryn Peterson (+400) and Washington‘s AJ Dybantsa (+400), who was the No. 1 overall pick.
Three former Michigan players also are on the board, according to Las Vegas, after they were all lottery picks after leading the Wolverines to their second national championship, and first since 1989.
Power forward Yaxel Lendeborg, the No. 11 pick by Golden State, has +2000 odds, seventh-best to win the award.
And center Aday Mara, taken No. 12 by Oklahoma City, checks in at +25000 odds.
Meanwhile, the Pistons’ first-round pick, Stanford point guard Ebuka Okorie, who was taken No. 17 as Detroit moved up from pick No. 21, is listed at +20000 odds.
One other name of note: Center Tarris Reed Jr., out of Connecticut after starting his collegiate career at Michigan, is listed at +25000 odds. Reed was drafted No. 26 by San Antonio.
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