As we head into late November, the rookie rankings are heating up with new appearances and some falling from the previous edition. At this point in the season, the rookies are beginning to grow more comfortable with their teams and how they get involved as the season goes on. Injuries and all, this rookie class is something special and will continue to be a part of this growing association for years to come. Let’s take a look at the top rookies this week.
Be sure to check out all of our NBA coverage.
5. Josh Giddey, SF, Oklahoma City Thunder
Giddey continued his strong rookie campaign with great performances in a three-game week for the Thunder. Over the stretch, he’s averaged a double-double with 14.3 points per game along with 10.3 rebounds. He does a great job making plays off-ball while also being effective on the defensive end
4. Franz Wagner, SF, Orlando Magic
Wagner had a strong start to the week with a 16 point performance in a win against the New York Knicks. He followed up with a 17 point performance in a close loss to the Brooklyn Nets. Wagner has been shooting lights out throughout the year, 44.3 percent from the field. He also is one of the more underrated rookie defenders.
3. Cade Cunningham, PG, Detroit Pistons
The No.1 draft pick is finally stepping into the scene, cracking the top five towards the end of November. The Oklahoma State product is averaging 16 points per game in his last three games and is growing increasingly comfortable on the offensive end. In the latest loss against the Los Angeles Lakers, he posted his first triple-double of his NBA career, with a 13 point, 12 rebound, and 10 assist stat line. He’s becoming the true point guard that he was expected to be.
2. Scottie Barnes, SF, Toronto Raptors
A down week for Barnes, but still the second-best rookie in the class to date. After a poor performance against the Utah Jazz, The Florida State product put up a double-double performance with 10 points and 13 rebounds in a loss to the Golden State Warriors. He continues to be a ball-dominant forward while also being active on the defensive end,
1. Evan Mobley, C, Cleveland Cavaliers
Even dealing with an injury, Mobley is the best rookie midway through November. After going down with an injury against the Celtics. The Center for USC missed the last three games against the Nets twice throughout the week and the Warriors. While missing injury, Mobley has proved to be the top of his class, being excellent and scoring effectively on a young and upcoming Cavaliers team.
Check us out on our socials:
Twitter: @PTSTNews and @TalkPrimeTime
Facebook Page: Prime Time Sports Talk
Join our Facebook Group: Prime Time Sports Talk
Instagram: @primetimesportstalk
Follow Kole Emplit on Twitter @KoleEmplit
Main Image Credit: Embed from Getty Images
