The 2022 NBA rookie class is shaping up to be one of the best in recent memory. This year's draft was loaded with talented guards who are poised to make an immediate impact in the league. As a basketball card collector and NBA fanatic, I'm always on the hunt for the next big rookie cards to add to my collection.

In this blog post, I'll count down the top 5 rookie guards that collectors should be stocking up on right now. These young players have the potential to be future superstars, and their rookie cards could explode in value down the road. Let's jump right in!

#1 - Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic

Kicking off the list is Paolo Banchero out of Duke University. He was the surprise #1 overall pick in the draft by the Orlando Magic. Most mocks had Jabari Smith Jr. going first, but the Magic bucked the consensus and took Banchero.

At 6'10" and 250 lbs, Banchero immediately becomes one of the most gifted big playmakers in the league. He has the size to bang down low, but also the ball-handling and court vision of a guard. Banchero averaged 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game in his lone season at Duke.

During summer league, Banchero showed he was more than ready for the bright lights of the NBA. He averaged 20 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists while taking home MVP honors. Banchero's flashy game and high-flying dunks will make him a fan favorite in Orlando.

As the unexpected #1 pick, Banchero's rookie cards should see steady growth in value. His National Treasures RPA auto cards are already selling for $3,000 - $5,000. Lock up Banchero's rookies now before his prices really take off.

#2 - Jaden Ivey, Detroit Pistons

Next up is athletic marvel Jaden Ivey, selected 5th overall by the Detroit Pistons. At 6'4" with a 6'8" wingspan, Ivey is an explosive leaper who thrives in the open floor. He averaged 17.3 points and 3.1 assists as a sophomore at Purdue.

Ivey has the speed to blow by any defender and finish strong at the rim. He's still developing his outside shot but did shoot 35.8% from three at Purdue. With a quick first step and nose for the basket, Ivey is a human highlight reel when he attacks the rim.

The Pistons are rebuilding around Ivey and last year's #1 pick, Cade Cunningham. Together they form one of the league's most exciting young backcourts. Ivey's rookie cards are still affordable compared to other top 5 picks. Now is the time to invest before his market really starts heating up.

#3 - Bennedict Mathurin, Indiana Pacers

The Indiana Pacers struck gold with the 6th pick in the draft, Bennedict Mathurin out of Arizona. Mathurin averaged 17.7 points and 5.6 rebounds while shooting 38% from downtown in his sophomore season.

At 6'6" with a massive 6'9" wingspan, Mathurin has prototypical size and athleticism for an NBA shooting guard. He poured in 27 points per game during summer league and appears ready to contribute from day one. Mathurin is an elite shot-maker, both off the catch and off the dribble.

Playing alongside Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers backcourt has outstanding potential. Mathurin's silky smooth jumper and NBA-ready scoring ability make his rookie cards enticing investments. His Gold Standard auto parallels are still affordable compared to previous #6 picks.

#4 - Keegan Murray, Sacramento Kings

After trading down in the draft, the Sacramento Kings selected Keegan Murray out of Iowa with the 4th pick. Murray was a stat sheet stuffer in college, putting up 23.5 points, 8.7 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, and 1.3 steals per game. He improved mightily between his freshman and sophomore seasons.

At 6'8" with a 7'0" wingspan, Murray's size and versatile skill set allow him to make an impact as a rookie. He shot 39.8% from three-point range at Iowa on 6.5 attempts per game. Murray couples his shooting with scrappiness on defense and elite rebounding ability.

Early in summer league, Murray was averaging 20 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 block per game. His polished offensive game is NBA-ready out of the gate. With his sweet shooting stroke and do-it-all game, Murray's rookie cards have a bright future. Now is an opportune time to invest before his prices climb higher.

#5 - Dyson Daniels, New Orleans Pelicans

Rounding out the top 5 rookie guards to collect is Dyson Daniels, picked 8th overall by the New Orleans Pelicans. Hailing from Australia, Daniels is a 6'6" playmaker with plus athleticism and defensive instincts. He spent last season with the G League Ignite, averaging 11.3 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game.

Daniels made first team All-Defense in the G League thanks to his length and quick hands. Offensively, he's a talented passer with developing scoring skills. Daniels has already earned rotation minutes with the Pelicans thanks to his elite defense.

Playing alongside Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, Daniels can focus on defense and playmaking early in his career. His hobby prices are criminally cheap right now. Daniels has superstar potential if his offense develops as hoped. Invest in his rookie cards ASAP before the market corrects higher.

In Conclusion

That wraps up my picks for the top 5 rookie guards whose basketball cards present the best investment opportunity. Paolo Banchero, Jaden Ivey, Bennedict Mathurin, Keegan Murray, and Dyson Daniels are primed for big rookie seasons. Now is the time to scoop up their cards before the hype escalates.

With the NBA season right around the corner, make sure to watch these rookies when you get a chance. Their stellar play on the court will directly drive up demand for their rookie cards. Thanks for reading and let me know which other first year players belong on your radar!