Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner on Saturday overtook Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes as the rookie scoring leader after producing 20 points in a loss to the Los Angeles Clippers.
Wagner also recorded three rebounds, three assists and one blocked shot in 33 minutes of work in the 106-104 loss. He went 8-of-10 from the field, including 2-of-2 from 3-point range, for his third 20-point game of the season.
The eighth pick has now registered 16 games with at least 15 points this season, which leads all rookie players. He has reached that mark in each of his last six games and eight out of his last nine overall games.
NBA Total Points Rookie Leaders
1. Franz Wagner – 380 PTS
2. Scottie Barnes – 362 PTS
3. Chris Duarte – 346 PTS
4. Evan Mobley – 320 PTS
5. Cade Cunningham – 305 PTS
6. Jalen Suggs – 258 PTS
7. Jalen Green – 252 PTS
8. Davion Mitchel – 246 PTS
9. Josh Giddey – 244 PTS pic.twitter.com/MrOBO6BhCG— Jeff WeltGawd đź…™ (@MagicMan816) December 11, 2021
Wagner has emerged as one of the top rookie players this season. He has produced on a consistent basis and has even played well beyond his years in certain moments. He has impressed his teammates and coaching staff and that should only continue throughout the year.
He will likely continue to be near the top of the rookie scoring leaders this season and will be a strong candidate to earn recognition in the end-of-season awards races. With the arrival of Wagner, the Magic look to have added another strong contributor for the future.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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