10 Most Recent Local Rookie Of The Year Winners

By Daniel Friedman
» More Columns

Kristaps Porzingis has a chance to be the first Knicks' Rookie of the Year since Mark Jackson (1987-88). He'd be joining some impressive company on the local sports scene, too. Here are the 10 most recent ROYs in New York.

1. Jacob deGrom: 2014, Mets

"The deGrominator" showed the kind of elite stuff he has in his arsenal, striking out batter after batter. He was the right choice for the award by a long shot.

2. Odell Beckham Jr: 2014, Giants (Offensive Rookie of the Year)

He burst onto the scene last year and is now the best receiver in football.

3. Sheldon Richardson: 2013, Jets (Defensive Rookie of the Year)

Richardson needs to learn to behave off the field, but on the field he's been more than exemplary.

4. Jonathan Vilma: 2004, Jets (Defensive Rookie of the Year)

A defensive standout for the Miami Hurricanes, he joined the Jets and continued to be one.

5. Scott Gomez: 1999-00, Devils

Long before he became more famous for not scoring goals, Gomez was setting up other players for them.

6. Bryan Berard: 1996-97, Islanders

His career was marred by an eye injury, but it sure got off to a great start. He put up 48 points as a rookie defenseman and played all 82 games.

7. Derek Jeter: 1996, Yankees

This one needs no explanation.

8. Hugh Douglas: 1995, Jets

Douglas' career really took off after he left the Jets (no pun intended), but he was the NFL's Defensive Rookie of the Year in '95.

9. Martin Brodeur: 1993-94, Devils

Brodeur introduced himself to the hockey world by putting on an outstanding show. He said goodbye as one of the greatest goaltenders in NHL history.

10. Derrick Coleman: 1990-91, Nets

Coleman played five seasons with the Nets and was an NBA All-Star in 1994.