With the likes of Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan and Kevin Garnett having just retired from the game, a lot of power vacuums have appeared in rosters. No, it's not the end of basketball; the game is simply evolving. And with its evolution comes a new generation of up-and-coming powerhouses. We list down the promising rookies to look out for this season: 

Brandon Ingram

With Ben Simmons out of commission for now, all eyes will be on Brandon Ingram, the no.2 pick at the draft this year. Named North Carolina's Mr. Basketball and Player of the Year, this rookie is already on his way to crafting a promising career. Maybe he’s the Lakers’ ticket to a return to their former glory.

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Thon Maker

We haven't seen straight-outta-high-school recruits from the NBA draft picks for a while now, so it’s understandable that a lot of people doubt the hype around Thon Maker. He was, however, recruited for a reason, which will be more and more evident as he makes waves in the game. At a little over 7-feet tall, Maker is also one of the tallest in the league.

Buddy Hield

Buddy Hield is the New Orleans Pelicans’ new shooting guard and a serious 3-point threat. And with a lot of college basketball awards to boot. Think we'll be seeing the Pelicans at the playoffs? We sure hope so

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Dragan Bender

Dragan Bender may be a European pretty boy but make not mistake about it, he's got serious game. Bender is one of those big, agile men who control the post—and looking good is just a bonus. We're sure he'll prove naysayers wrong when the NBA regular season begins

Domantas Sabonis

Son of one of the best European players—Arvydas Sabonis—of all time, Domantas has a heavy mantle to inherit. However, he’s already a large presence on court, both literally and strategically. Could he be the tower of power in Oklahoma City Thunder?

Bonus: Ben Simmons

Of course, this list can’t completely ignore the no.1 draft pick this season, Ben Simmons. Unluckily for the young player, he injured his foot and is off the court for now. If he could get cleared to play mid-year, he might be able to make an impact on the Philadelphia 76ers campaign for the cup. But we can only really hope for now.

Now the question is, who will be NBA's rookie of the year?