The NBA season is close to the very end with any team left in the postseason winning the next eight games will stamp the finish of the final games and on to the offseason.

One of the most exciting things this season has revealed to us is that the future of the league is in good hands, and all agree that this is one of the best rookie classes to step forward during this generation.

While Markelle Fultz dealt with a shoulder injury and most of his season away from the court, it produced the opportunity for the Boston Celtics to draft forward Jayson Tatum, who could easily be mistaken for the top pick in the draft although he was selected at the third spot.

The 6'8″ forward has played at a mature level, appearing to be a seasoned veteran in his first year, averaging 13.9 points, 1.6 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game.

There was never a rookie wall which affects many newcomers who find their way adjusting through the grind of the long 82-game season.  It's even more apparent now with the injuries to Celtics stars Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward, Taum has stepped his game up in the postseason averaging 18.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, including being an integral scorer and part of the Celtics' advancement to the Eastern Conference Finals.

Orlando Magic guard Evan Fornier has taken notice and is a big believer in the young Celtic baller.

Rookie of the Year is, of course, a regular season award, but out of the rookies who stood out among their peers this season, Tatum is the last man standing.

What this all personifies is a solid glimpse into the future of the league, and for the Celtics who will be amongst the top contenders in the East for the foreseeable future.