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Four Young NBA Stars Emerging as Top Candidates for Rookie Extensions The race for rookie-scale contract extensions is entering its final stage, with several members of the 2023 NBA Draft class facing an important deadline. Teams have until October 19 to reach agreements with eligible players before those players potentially enter restricted free agency in 2027. So far, several notable members of the class have already secured long-term deals, but four names are emerging as the strongest candidates for new contracts before the deadline. Brandon Miller Brandon Miller remains one of the most obvious candidates. The Charlotte Hornets forward has established himself as a key part of the franchise's future since being selected with the second overall pick in the 2023 Draft. His scoring ability, size and offensive versatility make him one of the most valuable young players still waiting for an extension. Charlotte will have to decide how aggressively it wants to invest in Miller before the deadline. Anthony Black Orlando Magic guard Anthony Black is another player attracting significant attention. The former sixth overall pick has continued to develop his game and has become an important part of Orlando's young core. His defensive ability, playmaking and versatility give the Magic plenty of reasons to consider securing him on a long-term contract rather than allowing him to enter restricted free agency next summer. Cason Wallace Cason Wallace has quietly become one of the more intriguing players from the 2023 class. The Oklahoma City Thunder guard has earned a reputation for his defensive ability and reliable play on both ends of the court. With Oklahoma City continuing to build around a talented young core, Wallace's development could make him an important piece of the team's long-term plans. Brandin Podziemski Brandin Podziemski completes the group of four players considered the strongest extension candidates. The Golden State Warriors guard has developed into a valuable contributor since entering the league and continues to attract attention because of his all-around game. There is reportedly mutual interest between Podziemski and the Warriors in reaching a new agreement, making Golden State one of the teams to watch closely before the deadline. The bigger picture The 2023 Draft class contains a number of talented players, but only a small group have already secured extensions. Victor Wembanyama, Keyonte George, Amen Thompson and Ausar Thompson have already agreed to new deals, with Ausar reportedly signing a five-year, $155 million extension with Detroit. The remaining players now face an important decision. Signing before October 19 provides financial security and keeps them tied to their current teams, while waiting could allow them to test the restricted free-agent market in 2027. With the deadline approaching, Brandon Miller, Anthony Black, Cason Wallace and Brandin Podziemski are among the young players most likely to receive new deals. The next two weeks could therefore have a major impact on the future of several NBA franchises and the financial standing of some of the league's most promising young stars.