NBA training camp began Tuesday and the regular season is just around the corner.
Once preseason play begins Friday, plenty of rookies will be set loose so they can show what they've got before rotations are narrowed.
Each year first-year players exceed the expectations set for them, so we've put together a short list of who you should look out for.
Five under-the-radar rookies you should keep an eye on:
Chris Clemons, Guard, Rockets
There's no guarantee Chris Clemons will make the Rockets' roster, but we have a good feeling he'll be in the mix this year.
The Campbell product led the nation in scoring in 2018-19, averaging 30.1 points and ended his college career as the third-highest scorer ever in NCAA Division I men's basketball history.
Although Clemons is 5-9, he has above-average athleticism and a willingness to fire the long ball while making them at an efficient clip, which makes him perfect for Houston.
He made five 3-pointers and scored 21 points in 18 minutes Monday in the fourth quarter of the Rockets' exhibition win against the Shanghai Sharks.
Houston's analytics-driven offense will always have room for snipers who make the most of open space.
Brandon Clarke, Forward, Grizzlies
Brandon Clarke had plenty of critics leading up to the 2019 NBA Draft, but the undersized forward answered a lot of questions during summer league play.
Clarke helped lead the Grizzlies to an NBA Summer League title in July and was awarded MVP honors twice in Las Vegas.
At 6-8, he isn't the most physically imposing power forward. However his athleticism, natural defensive instincts, high motor, efficient finishing around the basket, and dedication to improving as a perimeter shooter will make it hard to keep him off the floor.
Most eyes will be on 2019's No. 2 overall pick Ja Morant and second-year forward Jaren Jackson, and that will give Clarke an opportunity to continue exceeding expectations.
Carsen Edwards, Guard, Celtics
If there's one thing that stands out about Carsen Edwards, it's his ability to fill it up on difficult shot attempts.
Although he'll be backing up an All-NBA talent in Kemba Walker, Edwards should have ample opportunity to run the offense in Boston. Especially since Marcus Smart isn't much of an on-ball guard.
Edwards' quick release and seemingly unlimited shooting range helped him average 24.3 points at Purdue last year and 34.8 points in the NCAA tournament.
He's one guy who won't hesitate to shoot his shot and establish a role for himself early.
Bruno Fernando, Center, Hawks
Bruno Fernando slipped through the cracks after originally being considered a lottery prospect in 2019, but he still has plenty of promise.
He is a capable two-way player who averaged 13.6 points, 10.6 rebounds and 1.9 blocks last season at Maryland and will compete to back up Alex Len down low.
Fernando's large frame, athleticism and potential to affect games as a post passer could make him valuable on a team with plenty of young talent that will attract more attention.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Guard, Pelicans
Nickeil Alexander-Walker will certainly benefit from New Orleans' versatility at the guard spots.
Much like Lonzo Ball and Jrue Holiday, who will likely form one of the NBA's best defensive backcourts in 2019-20, Alexander-Walker can play on or off the ball.
Although he's 6-5 his 6-9 wingspan only adds to the great length of the Pelicans' ball handlers.
The Canadian's aggressive driving and craftiness around the rim are complemented by the developing shot creation skills he showcased in the summer league.
New Orleans combination of young, athletic finishers and a sharpshooter in JJ Redick have set the table for Alexander-Walker to thrive in a reserve role.