Almost a month into the NBA season, a Rookie of the Year race is tight and an All-Rookie Team is shaping up. While Alexey Shved has been effective for the Wolves filling in for their injured guards, he is the only top undrafted rookie. As of now, our rookie top five is made up of players who were all very high draftees.
1. Damian Lillard
Lillard got off to a fast start when he lead an upset of the Lakers in his NBA debut. He scored 22 points that night and hasn't looked back. He currently leads all rookies at 19.6 PPG to go along with his 5.8 APG. Lillard looks like Kyire Irving last year, but with more talent around him. Portland is hardly a playoff team, but that's because there is a lack of depth. Lillard is the playmaker for Lamarcus Aldridge and Nicolas Batum and he certainly can score in this league. In a small sample of 11 games, he is the Rookie of the Year frontrunner.
2. Anthony Davis
Though missing four games with a concussion and then a foot injury isn't the best start to Davis's rookie campaign, his talent is evident. The number one pick is leads all rookies with 8.3 RPG and is second with 16.0 PPG. Davis gives the Hornets a star to build around and his shot-blocking ability and shooting touch show why he is such a rare prospect.
3. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist
Like he did on Kentucky last year, MKG is quietly doing everything to help the Bobcats win this year. Aside from Kemba Walker's improvement, Kidd-Gilchrist's presence is the reason Charlotte is having a turnaround. He is shooting a nice percentage and ranks second on his team in PER. At 12 points and 7 boards per game, MKG is showing why Charlotte made the right choice in picking him number two overall.
4. Harrison Barnes
The Warriors are winning this year and Barnes fits right into their mold. He is a good shooter who has played a big part in starting for one of the better offensive teams in the West. Opposite Klay Thompson on the wing, Barnes knocks down open shots and is a smart, team player that the Dubs are happy to have. The Warriors fate may rest on the ankles of Stephen Curry, but Barnes is certainly a contributor for this exciting young team.
5. Dion Waiters
Cleveland is a struggling team, but that hasn't stopped Waiters from showcasing his scoring ability. While not a great shooter, Waiters is a strong guard who can create his own shot. It's Irving's team, but Waiters will need to step up now with their point guard out a month. The low PER indicates that he needs to expand his game, but the Cavs look like they have solidified their backcourt with Waiters.
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