The 2020-21 NBA regular season is on its final stretch with just 20 games remaining and what a run it has been. As it stands, the Utah Jazz is on top of the league, several big names are on different teams right now, and a series of injuries have devastated a good number of squads, among others. But while those things are happening, the 2020 Draft Class has been putting everyone on notice with their incredible showing this season. NBA card enthusiasts have a final stretch of games to assess who's a solid bet to keep collecting.

As compared to other draft classes, the rookies from this year seemed to lack star power when the season started. As the year progressed, these players got to show what they’re made of and how high their ceiling can go. And in these 20 remaining games, there are bound to be some names that are going to make some noise in the card market as the regular season ends. We take a look below at the four hottest NBA rookie cards that can achieve that feat.

 

Patrick Williams

When LeBron James, the best player of his generation, gives a rookie his compliment, card collectors everywhere should take notice. In this case, it’s Patrick Williams of the Chicago Bulls.

Patrick Williams rookie card, NBA rookie card, Chicago Bulls

While Chitown’s chance of nabbing a playoff spot gets dimmer by the day, Williams’ contribution to his squad is becoming more noticeable. The rookie is currency averaging 9.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in the 52 games he played and started for the Bulls this year. He’s also hitting 52% from two and 38% from three, which equates to an efficient showing every time he makes a shot.

Williams is expected to remain the Bulls’ starting power forward until the season ends. Whether Chicago makes the playoffs or not, his presence on the court will be more than enough to keep him on the radar of card enthusiasts. As a result, Williams will become better, both on the court and with his value in the NBA card market.

 

Anthony Edwards

With LaMelo Ball possibly out for the season, Anthony Edwards is the clear favorite to win Rookie of the Year. Since the firing of Ryan Saunders, Ant Man has been on a roll by averaging 17.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.1 steals in 31.3 minutes per game. All of these stats came together when the Timberwolves faced off against the Phoenix Suns last month.

In that game, Edwards showed everyone why he was the number one pick this year by notching 42 points in 38 minutes to lead Minnesota in a win over Phoenix. And with the season winding down to its last 20 games, the Timberwolves want nothing more than to unleash Edwards and give him the chance he needs to develop faster.

This bodes well for those who have invested in NBA cards of the Ant Man. Even if the Timberwolves spiral down further, Edwards’ value will increase if he manages to maintain his current averages right now. It can even possibly spike up when he is recognized as the top rookie this season. When that happens, your investment in him will certainly pay dividends.

 

Saddiq Bey

In some cases, being in a bad team can do wonders for a rookie’s development. Saddiq Bey is clearly benefitting from the Detroit Pistons’ tanking strategy this year, as evidenced by the numbers he’s putting up. He’s currently posting 11.2 points, 4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 25.1 minutes per game.

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Bey is also trending towards the right direction when it comes to efficiency. He’s connecting 47% from the field, 38% from downtown, and 88% from the free-throw line. While his defense is still subpar, which is the case for most players in their first year in the league, Bey is bound to get better in time. Expect Motor City to accelerate his development in the last 20 games by giving him a good chunk of playing time.

 

Theo Maledon

The loss of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander rookie card collectors is the gain of those who have invested in Theo Maledon. The rookie point guard has been orchestrating the Oklahoma City Thunder’s offense ever since their franchise player went down with a foot injury. While his nightly averages of 9.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists aren’t as dominating as his fellow rookies, Maledon’s maturity and leadership are evident whenever he’s on the court.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9rtUmVyynA

The 6’4” guard exceeded his stats and flashed what he can really do in a contest against the Phoenix Suns. In that game, Maledon posted a career-high 33 points, connected 50% of his shots from the field and 67% from downtown. Although the Thunder lost to the Suns, the rookie got everyone’s attention to what he can really do on the court.

With 20 games remaining this season, these players have a good chance to show off and continue the momentum they have built all year long. Plus, the recent release of Panini’s newest Prizm set, which features these rookies, will solidify their value on the card market. Barring any injury or drastic change within their respective teams, you can expect these first-year players to be great NBA card investments.