NBA Rookie Rankings 2008-2009

November 6, 2008

The early returns are in, and this year’s rookie crop has revealed why the UCLA Bruins and the Spanish National Team have been so successful of late. We have compiled our top 10 list, taking into consideration that things will obviously change when Greg Oden gets healthy and makes his impact. In addition, rookies who are now stockpiling DNP-CD’s, will get solid minutes later as they begin to “get it” defensively and gain the trust of their coaches. Here is our list of the rookie top 10:

1. DERRICK ROSE – CHICAGO

Already starting at the key decision-making position. Has produced some impressive games, and soon will emerge as “the guy” on that roster.


2. MICHAEL BEASLEY – MIAMI

Scoring numbers have steadily improved with each game. Should become a reliable number 2 option in the half-court set behind D-Wade.


3. RUDY FERNANDEZ – PORTLAND

Providing double-digit scoring off the bench. One of the most polished, ready-to-play rookies in this class.


4. O.J. MAYO – MEMPHIS

This rook is not gun shy and has had some big scoring nights. True indicator of his growth will be improvement in shot selection over the course of the season.


5. RUSSELL WESTBROOK – SEATTLE (Someone explain again why the NBA is in Oklahoma?)

Who said this guy was drafted too early? Has continued his stellar preseason with impressive offensive numbers. Ahead of projected curve offensively.


6. JASON THOMPSON – SACRAMENTO

Small-school guy playing like he belongs. Filling up stat sheet off the bench.


7. MARC GASOL – MEMPHIS

Strong play has continued from the Olympics. Laker deal doesn’t look so lopsided anymore. Solid big guy inside.


8. KEVIN LOVE – MINNESOTA

When he gets the minutes, he boards and puts up double-figure points. Could crack starting lineup alongside Al Jefferson after the All-Star break.


9. LUC RICHARD MBAH A MOUTE – MILWAUKEE

Defensive demon who can guard 2’s, 3’s, and 4’s. Doing all the dirty work and seeing plenty of PT. Thus far, the steal of the second round.


10. D.J. AUGUSTINE – CHARLOTTE

Part of Larry Brown’s rotation, and getting solid back-up minutes. Brown hoping he has NBA starting point guard caliber game so he can eventually send Felton out of town.


HONORABLE MENTION

Mario Chalmers, Miami
Mike Taylor, Clippers (Great athlete at point guard who can really ballhawk on D)
Brook Lopez, New Jersey

By Mike Elliott
Staff Editor for TheDailySportsHerald.com

No comments:

Post a Comment

We encourage all intelligent, passionate comments. Please refrain from any ignorant, racist, or offensive rants.

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...