While Zion Williamson continues to leave his mark on the NBA, it has been the emergence of Coby White that has been perhaps the next biggest storyline of the rookie class.
White has been on an absolute tear over his last nine games with the Bulls, culminating with his first career start Tuesday night against the Cleveland Cavaliers. After much discussion this season, White finally had an opportunity to start and he showed why he belongs.
As White continues to stay hot, other first-year players have started cooling off as some are beginning to hit the infamous rookie wall. With just over a month remaining, the race to finish out the season should be fun to watch among these rookie players.
Here are the latest Rookie Wire Power Rankings:
All stats are through games played on March 10
Honorable Mention:
R.J. Barrett, New York Knicks: 14.1 points, 5 rebounds, 2.5 assists
Barrett has had an inconsistent year shooting the ball but has scored in double figures in seven consecutive games with the Knicks. Barrett has had some incredible moments this season, like hitting the game-sealing layup against the Houston Rockets, and has laid out a promising future ahead.
Kendrick Nunn, Miami Heat: 15.5 points, 3.4 assists, 2.7 rebounds
With the exception of a recent two-game slide, Nunn has continued to play well this season for the Heat. Nunn has emerged as a key piece for head coach Erik Spoelstra and is well on his way to an NBA All-Rookie First Team selection.
Naz Reid, Minnesota Timberwolves: 9 points, 4.1 rebounds
His overall numbers this season don’t jump off the page but Reid has emerged as a key player for the Timberwolves as of late. He is posting 11 points and 6.6 rebounds over his last eight games and recently strung together back-to-back double-doubles for the first time this season.