2019 NBA Rookie of the Year Winner and Voting Results
In 2019, the NBA Rookie of the Year award was won by Pascal Siakam, a power forward for the Toronto Raptors. Selected 27th overall in 2016, Siakam emerged as a two-way force in the 2018–19 season, earning strong consideration during his second campaign. He finished the voting ahead of runners-up Trae Young and De’Aaron Fox, reflecting rapid improvement, playoff impact, and versatile scoring. This profile outlines the final vote, notable finalists, and how Siakam’s rookie season laid foundations for sustained All-Star success.
How the NBA Rookie of the Year Voting Works
The NBA Rookie of the Year award is decided by a panel of sportswriters and broadcasters, each casting a vote for first, second, and third place. Each voter submits a ranked ballot; points are assigned based on placement (first place receives five points, second three, and first place receives three points). The player with the highest point total wins. A written explanation of the methodology and electorate is published annually by the NBA, providing transparency into the selection process.
2019 Final Vote Tally at a Glance
| Player | Team | 1st Place Votes | 2nd Place Votes | 3rd Place Votes | Total Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pascal Siakam | Toronto Raptors | 75 | 17 | 0 | 426 |
| Trae Young | Atlanta Hawks | 17 | 46 | 9 | 227 |
| De’Aaron Fox | Sacramento Kings | 3 | 12 | 53 | 150 |
2019 Top Finalists and Season Highlights
The 2019 ballot included three prominent candidates who delivered distinct rookie campaigns. Pascal Siakam exemplified steady development and two-way impact, Trae Young set scoring and assist benchmarks for modern point guards, and De’Aaron Fox showcased elite speed and playmaking. Below is a concise overview of their 2018–19 seasons, allowing direct comparison of key performance indicators.
2018–19 Season Comparison
| Player | Team | PPG | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | Minutes/Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pascal Siakam | Toronto Raptors | 14.0 | 6.7 | 3.5 | 0.9 | 0.4 | 29.4 |
| Trae Young | Atlanta Hawks | 16.9 | 3.2 | 8.4 | 0.9 | 0.2 | 34.7 |
| De’Aaron Fox | Sacramento Kings | 15.7 | 3.5 | 5.5 | 1.3 | 0.3 | 34.6 |
Post-Rookie Trajectories and Notable Performances
Following the 2018–19 season, Pascal Siakam continued to develop into a premier two-way forward. He appeared in multiple All-Star Games and earned All-NBA selections, reinforcing the notion that his rookie campaign was a launchpad rather than a peak. Trae Young established himself as a franchise cornerstone for Atlanta, combining high-volume scoring with elite playmaking. De’Aaron Fox evolved into a perennial All-Star guard, leveraging his athleticism and court vision. Each extended their rookie-season momentum into sustained productivity.
Key Takeaways and Context
- Voting spread: Pascal Siakam’s 426 total points demonstrated clear voter consensus, whereas Trae Young and De’Aaron Fox were separated by narrower margins.
- Workload and efficiency: Siakam balanced high usage with efficient scoring, while Young and Fox carried heavier scoring loads.
- Two-way impact: Siakam’s defensive versatility contributed significantly to the Raptors’ competitive positioning in 2019.
Evergreen Context and Legacy
Although the 2019 Rookie of the Year race is not breaking news, it remains a useful reference point for understanding modern NBA development and positional value. Siakam’s trajectory illustrates how a disciplined, high-efficiency rookie can evolve into an All-NBA performer. Young and Fox offer contrasting models of high-usage guard development. The voting outcome and season statistics continue to inform expectations for skill development, role clarity, and two-way contributions.
Methodology and Sources
Vote totals follow the standard NBA points system (5-3-1) and are drawn from publicly reported league results. Season statistics are sourced from official NBA boxscores and recognized statistical providers. Contextual career updates reflect outcomes through the conclusion of the most recent completed full season.