The Rookie of the Year race is usually very clear by about the midway point of the season. There may be a handful of candidates that are worthy of the recognition, but one typically stands well above the others.

This year, it was two guys — Kon Knueppel and Cooper Flagg — who, at different points, looked like the best rookie in the league. Former NBA star and Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony understands the reason for the debate, but has a solution to it all, although Flagg has already been named the winner.

Melo: "I think they should be co-Rookie of the Year ... this is more J-Kidd, Grant Hill."

Rudy: "I do believe [LeBron & Melo] should've been co-Rookie of the Year too."

Cooper Flagg & Kon Knueppel both went CRAZY this season, but does that mean they'll split the ROY? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/R8qrLn16dA

— 7PM in Brooklyn (@7PMinBrooklyn) April 27, 2026

“I think both are phenomenal. I think they should be Co-Rookie of the Year.…