Tag: Brandon Clarke

Rookie Wire Power Rankings: Morant, Nunn maintain lead in Week 8

Rookie Wire takes a look at the top rookies through the eighth week of the 2019-20 NBA season.

As the NBA has crossed over the quarter-mark of the 2019-20 season, several first-year players have been hit with injuries and are expected to miss some time for their respective clubs.

Of course, others have already dealt with injuries this season but have recovered and have continued to stay productive after missing some game action.

Perhaps the biggest adjustment rookies face each year is the longer NBA schedule. In college, most players appear in less than 40 games but that number will rise up to 82 in the NBA so that should be something to monitor over the course of the next month or so.

Rookie Wire will compile the rankings of the five best players each week based on how they performed on the court. The rankings are not for Rookie of the Year purposes but, rather, to illustrate the top-performing players.

Here are the Rookie Wire Power Rankings for Week 8:

All stats are through games played on Dec. 17

5. Eric Paschall, Warriors

Stats: 16.1 points, 5 rebounds, 1.7 assists

Rank Last Week: 3

Speaking of injuries, Paschall recently missed two games for the Golden State Warriors after dealing with hip soreness. The second-round pick is set to return on Wednesday but he will be tasked with getting back on track. Prior to missing time, Paschall tallied just 10 points over his last two games combined, shooting just 25% (4-of-16) from the field. That stretch was easily his worst of the season after recently scoring in double figures in 13 straight games.

4. De’Andre Hunter, Hawks

Stats: 12.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2 assists

Rank Last Week: 5

Hunter has been up and down since scoring a career-high 28 points on Dec. 10 but he is averaging 13.5 points over his last four games for the Hawks. The fourth overall pick is coming off of a 19-point performance Tuesday night in a blowout loss to the New York Knicks while he hauled in five rebounds and dished out four assists. Hunter has struggled with his shot selection this season, often forcing looks or taking shots out of his range, but with the Hawks losers of five straight, that may not be the biggest concern at the moment.

3. Tyler Herro, Heat

Stats: 14.2 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists

Rank Last Week: Honorable Mention

Herro registers his highest ranking of the season this week after posting 16 points and 4.7 rebounds over his last three games for the Heat. After a scoreless performance on Dec. 10 and a seven-point outing on Dec. 13, Herro has combined for 41 points over his last two games, including a 22-point outburst on Monday. The 13th overall pick is fifth in rookie scoring and has been on the shortlist of standouts this season in his class.

2. Kendrick Nunn, Heat

Stats: 16.1 points, 3.6 assists, 2.7 rebounds, 1 steal

Rank Last Week: 2

After recording a career-high 36 points on Dec. 10, Nunn continued his strong play. Nunn is averaging 15.7 points and 4.7 assists over his last three games while he is shooting 43.8% from 3-point range. Perhaps his best highlight of the week came on Friday when he posterized Los Angeles Lakers center JaVale McGee. Nunn adds an aggressive option on offense for the HEat and he has certainly displayed that this season. McGee would likely attest to that, as well.

1. Ja Morant, Grizzlies

Stats: 18.8 points, 6.5 assists, 3.1 rebounds, 1.3 steals

Rank Last Week: 1

Morant has proven to be the most dominant rookie so far this season and has continued to do so even after missing four games recently with back soreness. Since returning on Dec. 9, Morant is posting 20.8 points, 4.5 assists, four rebounds and one steal in four games for the Grizzlies. During that span, Morant even threw down perhaps the dunk of the year after posterizing Aron Baynes. He is coming off of a 20-point performance against the Heat on Monday as he helped the Grizzlies avoid an epic collapse after Miami erased a 17-point deficit.

Honorable Mention:

Rui Hachimura, Wizards: 13.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists

Hachimura will miss the next five games for the Wizards after suffering a groin contusion on Monday when he was inadvertently kicked by a teammate. The injury will put a hold on what was a productive month of December for the ninth overall pick. In eight games, Hachimura is averaging 17.3 points and 6.6 rebounds while he is shooting 49.1% from the field. Hachimura will be re-evaluated after Christmas and could be done until after the new year.

On the Rise:

Brandon Clarke, Grizzlies

Clarke has been on a tear since returning from a four-game absence with an oblique injury. The first-round pick is averaging 18 points over his last three games, the most by a rookie over that span. He is shooting 72.4% from the field and 75% from 3-point range. Clarke is fourth in the NBA in field-goal percentage and has been among the biggest steals of the NBA Draft.

R.J. Barrett, Knicks

After dropping out of the rankings last week, Barrett returns after a career night on Tuesday when he recorded 27 points in a blowout win over the Atlanta Hawks. Barrett has battled through consistency issues this season but he showed off his overall game against the Hawks as the Knicks have suddenly won three of four.

Kevin Porter Jr., Cavaliers

Porter recently recorded a career-high 24 points against James Harden and the Houston Rockets on Dec. 11 and is averaging 13.3 points over his last four games. Porter has had an up and down campaign to this point but appears to be settling in for the Cavaliers.

Shout Out:

Admiral Schofield, Wizards

The second-round pick recently turned in his best stretch of the season for the Wizards after recording 23 points over his last two games in 20 minutes. Whether in the G League or NBA, Schofield has a knack for making the most of his time on the court.

P.J. Washington, Hornets

Like Hachimura, Washington recently suffered an injury that will keep him out for five games with a fractured finger. Washington has had a productive month of December, including back-to-back 13-point performances before suffering his injury.

Week 3 Power Rankings | Week 4 Power Rankings | Week 5 Power Rankings | Week 6 Power Rankings | Week 7 Power Rankings

Grizzlies’ Morant, Clarke to sit Friday for injury maintenance

After each recently suffering injuries, Ja Morant and Brandon Clarke will sit on the first night of a back-to-back on Friday night.

Memphis Grizzlies rookies Ja Morant and Brandon Clarke will not play Friday night against the Milwaukee Bucks due to injury maintenance, the team announced on Thursday afternoon.

Both will be available to play Saturday against the Washington Wizards.

Morant recently missed four games after dealing with back soreness following a collision with a courtside camera operator. He scored a team-high 26 points in his return on Monday against the Golden State Warriors and tallied 13 points on Wednesday against the Phoenix Suns.

Meanwhile, the Grizzlies announced on Dec. 3 that Clarke would be considered week-to-week with an aggravated sore left oblique muscle. Clarke missed four games before returning on Wednesday as he recorded 15 points and seven rebounds.

The Grizzlies have been cautious with injuries this season, especially to their two rookie players. The organization will certainly monitor their progress and the two could be subject to resting in back-to-backs for the foreseeable future.

Morant leads all rookies in scoring average (18.7) and assists (6.4) this season while Clarke is 10th in scoring (12.0), first in field-goal percentage (63.8) and second in rebounding (5.9).

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Rookie Wire Power Rankings: Ja Morant picks up where he left off

Rookie Wire takes a look at the top rookies through the seventh week of the 2019-20 NBA season.

Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant recently returned after missing four games due to back soreness after crashing into a courtside camera operator.

With Zion Williamson out following knee surgery, the top of the rookie class took a hit over the past week with Morant out of the lineup and R.J. Barrett struggling to stay consistent.

Of course, Morant returned on Monday night to lead the Grizzlies to a win over the Golden State Warriors. He recorded a team-high 26 points in that game and reasserted himself as the top rookie to this point of the season.

As Morant showed so signs of slowing down following his injury, some other rookies are beginning to pick up steam as the NBA begins the second quarter of the season.

Rookie Wire will compile the rankings of the five best players each week based on how they performed on the court. The rankings are not for Rookie of the Year purposes but, rather, to illustrate the top-performing players.

Here are the Rookie Wire Power Rankings for Week 7:

All stats are through games played on Dec. 10

5. De’Andre Hunter, Hawks

Stats: 12.8 points, 4 rebounds, 1.9 assists

Rank Last Week: Honorable Mention

Speaking of pick up steam, Hawks rookie De’Andre Hunter has burst onto the scene over the past few weeks. Hunter recorded a career-high 28 points on Tuesday night in an overtime loss to the Miami Heat as he shot an efficient 11-of-17 from the field. Hunter recently dealt with a dislocated right index finger but showed no signs of any issues on Tuesday night. Hunter is up to seventh in rookie scoring this season but is averaging 14.5 points per game over his six games, good for sixth-best over that time period.

4. Rui Hachimura, Wizards

Stats: 14.4 points, 6 rebounds, 1.7 assists

Rank Last Week: 5

After struggling with his consistency, Hachimura has quietly strung together quite a few impressive performances. The ninth overall pick has scored in double figures in seven straight games and is averaging 19.6 points over that span, the most among all rookies. Of course, that streak includes a career-high 30 points against the Los Angeles Clippers on Dec. 1 and a 27-point performance two games later against the Philadelphia 76ers. The rookie appears to be finally finding his way with the Wizards and it has led to some improved play as of late.

3. Eric Paschall, Warriors

Stats: 16.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists

Rank Last Week: 2

As the Warriors struggle, Paschall is coming off of his worst outing of the season. The second-round pick recorded a season-low five points on Monday, snapping a streak of 13 consecutive games scoring in double figures. Paschall still leads the rookie class in total points scored, just topping Kendrick Nunn and Ja Morant. Paschall has thrived in isolation situations this season and has used his size and strength to get to the basket. He is having a strong rookie campaign to this point and now has the second-highest odds to win the Rookie of the Year award as a result.

2. Kendrick Nunn, Heat

Stats: 16.2 points, 3.4 assists, 2.7 rebounds, 1 steal

Rank Last Week: 3

The undrafted rookie reclaims the second spot in our rankings after a monster performance on Tuesday against the Hawks. Nunn recorded a career-high 36 points, finishing 14-of-26 from the field while adding six rebounds and four assists. Nunn is averaging 19 points over the past week as he appears to have broken out of a recent slump that saw him post 10.5 points over a four-game stretch. He is now just one of four rookies to record at least 30 points in a game this season, joining Eric Paschall, Ja Morant and Rui Hachimura.

1. Ja Morant, Grizzlies

Stats: 19.1 points, 6.4 assists, 3.1 rebounds, 1.3 steals

Rank Last Week: 1

As previously mentioned, Morant returned on Monday after a four-game absence to lead the Grizzlies with 26 points in the win over the Warriors. Morant showed no signs of any lingering back issues during the game and fooled a number of Warriors players on a nifty pass fake for an easy bucket. The Grizzlies likely held Morant out to fully heal as the injury was not considered to be serious but it was certainly a plus to have Morant back out on the court Monday night.

Honorable Mention:

Tyler Herro, Heat: 13.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2 assists

Herro had back-to-back performances of at least 20 points over the weekend but followed that up by going scoreless Tuesday night in 23 minutes of action. Herro is tied with R.J. Barrett for fifth in scoring among rookies but his zero-point outing against the Hawks shouldn’t be a cause for concern moving forward.

P.J. Washington, Hornets: 12.2 points, 5 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1 steal

Washington hit a bit of a wall toward the end of November but has come on strong for the Hornets since then. He is averaging 14.9 points and 4.4 rebounds over his last eight games, including a 20-point performance against the Hawks on Sunday. Perhaps most impressive in that outing is Washington got to the free-throw line 13 times, converting on 12 shots.

On the Rise:

Cam Reddish, Hawks: 8.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists

Reddish is fifth in scoring among all rookies over the last week, averaging 14.7 points while shooting 50% (7-of-14) from 3-point range. Reddish had a career-high 25 points on Dec. 4 as he continues to flash his potential this season.

Jaxson Hayes, Pelicans: 9 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.1 blocks

Hayes is finding consistent playing time now and is producing as a result. He is averaging 11.8 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.6 blocks in five December games and has scored in double figures in three straight games for the first time this season.

Matisse Thybulle, 76ers: 5.1 points, 1.5 steals, 1.3 rebounds

Thybulle recorded a career-high 20 points on Sunday and followed that up with 13 points Tuesday night against the Denver Nuggets. He is shooting 52.9% (9-of-17) from 3-point range over his last four games as he appears to be settling in with the Sixers.

Shout Out:

Luguentz Dort, Thunder

After beginning the season in the G League with the OKC Blue, Dort has spent the past three games in the NBA with the Thunder. He recorded his first bucket on Sunday and had nine points on Monday night.

Dropped Out:

R.J. Barrett, Knicks; Brandon Clarke, Grizzlies

Week 2 Power Rankings | Week 3 Power Rankings | Week 4 Power Rankings | Week 5 Power Rankings | Week 6 Power Rankings

Jaxson Hayes, Ja Morant receive ratings bump in latest ‘NBA 2K’ update

Jaxson Hayes and Ja Morant were among the rookies to see a change in their latest NBA 2K20 rating.

New Orleans Pelicans center Jaxson Hayes and Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant were among the first-year players to receive a ratings bump in the latest ‘NBA 2K20′ update released on Friday.

After a few strong performances, Hayes’ overall rating increased by two from 74 to 76 in the latest update. He is averaging 10.6 points, 6.2 rebounds and 1.6 blocks over his last five games.

Meanwhile, Morant saw his rating increase by one from 82 to 83 despite missing the last three games for the Grizzlies with back spasms after crashing into a baseline camera operator on Nov. 25.

As Hayes and Morant each saw their rating increase, several other rookies received changes in their overall mark:

  • R.J. Barrett: 78 (-1)
  • Brandon Clarke: 80 (+2)
  • Terence Davis: 76 (+2)
  • Rui Hachimura: 78 (+1)
  • Eric Paschall: 80 (+1)

After the latest ratings update, the top five rookies in the NBA are:

  1. Ja Morant: 83
  2. Zion Williamson: 81
  3. Brandon Clarke: 80
  4. Eric Paschall: 80
  5. Rui Hachimura: 78

The updated top five ratings among rookies likely isn’t a surprise to many as those players, with the exception of Williamson, have been among the top first-year players this season.

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Rookie Wire Power Rankings: Paschall, Hachimura climb in Week 6

Rookie Wire takes a look at the top rookies through the sixth week of the 2019-20 NBA season.

With another week in the books, the rooks continue to show out.

From Eric Paschall to Rui Hachimura, the class had a number of outstanding performances and they show no signs of slowing. Players continue to progress in their development and it has made for some entertaining basketball.

Rookie Wire will compile the rankings of the five best players each week based on how they performed on the court. The rankings are not for Rookie of the Year purposes but, rather, to illustrate the top-performing players week to week.

Here are the Rookie Wire Power Rankings for Week 6:

All stats are through games played on Dec. 3

5. Rui Hachimura, Wizards

Stats: 13.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists

Rank Last Week: Honorable Mention

Rui Hachimura has seemingly broken out of his recent slump and has done so in a big way. The ninth overall pick is averaging 16.8 points, 7.3 rebounds and two assists over his last four games, including a career-high 30 points on Sunday against the Los Angeles Clippers. His performance garnered praise from the likes of Paul George and Kawhi Leonard as they believe Hachimura can be one of the best long-term rookies from this draft class.

4. Tyler Herro, Heat

Stats: 14 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2 assists

Rank Last Week: 5

Herro is still fifth among all rookies in scoring at 14 points per game. He recently drained a career-high five 3-pointers on Friday en route to 19 points against the Golden State Warriors. Herro is just a hair under 40% shooting from beyond the arc, something the Heat will certainly need throughout the season in order to maintain their strong start. The group is coming off of an impressive overtime win over the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday and they appear to be among the best in the Eastern Conference.

3. Kendrick Nunn, Heat

Stats: 15.7 points, 3.4 assists, 2.5 rebounds, 1.2 steals

Rank Last Week: 2

Despite being named the Eastern Conference Player of the Month, Nunn has struggled as of late. The undrafted guard is averaging 10.5 points over his last four games while he is shooting just 29.3% from the field, including 17.9% (5-of-28) from 3-point range. Nunn has certainly played like one of the top rookies to this point of the season but has gone cold over the past week or so. Given the work he has put in, it seems reasonable to believe he’ll snap out of his slump and return to the player that put up 16.4 points per game in October and November.

2. Eric Paschall, Warriors

Stats: 17.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, 1.8 assists

Rank Last Week: 3

With injuries decimating the Warriors, Paschall has been arguably the MVP of the team this season. He has been among the hottest first-year players after averaging 20.8 points over his last four games on 53.8% shooting from the field, including 62.5% (5-of-8) from 3-point range. Paschall has utilized his strength and athleticism to score over defenders and has also used his mid-range shot to add to his array of offensive skills. The injury to Ja Morant could potentially open the door for Paschall in the Rookie of the Year race and he could be the top player to benefit should Morant miss extended time.

1. Ja Morant, Grizzlies

Stats: 18.6 points, 6.4 assists, 3.2 rebounds, 1.4 steals

Rank Last Week: 1

Though Morant is considered to be week-to-week with back spasms, the Western Conference Rookie of the Month held onto the top spot–for now. After crashing into a courtside camera operator on Nov. 25, Morant played in the next two games for the Grizzlies before aggravating his back injury on Friday against the Utah Jazz. Morant still put up 15.5 points, 7.5 assists, four rebounds and 2.5 steals in two games while dealing with a sore back. The Grizzlies are certainly going to be cautious with his injury so his status moving forward will be worth monitoring.

Honorable Mention:

R.J. Barrett, Knicks: 14.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.3 steals

Barrett appeared to be back on track after recording at least 16 points in three straight games but followed that up with a two-point performance on Monday in which he missed all nine shot attempts. Even worse than that, the Knicks lost by 44 points to the Milwaukee Bucks. The up-and-down swings will likely stay throughout the season, as is the case with most rookies, but Barrett has at least proven to be entertaining to watch. The same can’t be said for the rest of the team.

De’Andre Hunter, Hawks: 12.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, 1.7 assists

After a slow start to the season, Hunter is up to eighth in scoring among rookies. He is coming off of an 18-point performance Monday on his 22nd birthday but suffered a dislocated right index finger and is listed as doubtful to play Wednesday against the Brooklyn Nets. In any case, the injury doesn’t sound too severe so he may not miss much time, if any at all.

Brandon Clarke, Grizzlies: 11.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.3 assists

Clarke has been among the most efficient players in the league this season and has emerged as a key contributor for the Grizzlies. Unfortunately, Clarke is also considered to be week-to-week after aggravating a left oblique injury. Clarke re-injured himself in the first half on Monday and did not return to the game. While Clarke could miss a few games, he has still been a bright spot this season.

On the Rise:

P.J. Washington, Hornets

After a strong start to the season, Washington trailed off a bit but has gotten back on track. Over his last four games, Washington is averaging 15.3 points and four rebounds. The Hornets are 6-1 when Washington records at least 15 points.

Darius Garland, Cavaliers

Garland has emerged for the Cavaliers over the past few weeks as he appears to be settling in. Head coach John Beilein believes Garland is beginning to really grasp the offense and that has resulted in improved play from the fifth overall pick.

Dropped Out:

Coby White, Bulls

Week 1 Power Rankings | Week 2 Power Rankings | Week 3 Power Rankings | Week 4 Power Rankings | Week 5 Power Rankings

Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke ‘week-to-week’ with a sore left oblique

Clarke has emerged as a key rotational piece for the Grizzlies this season, averaging 11.8 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.3 assists.

Memphis Grizzlies rookie Brandon Clarke is considered to be week-to-week with a sore left oblique muscle after aggravating the injury on Sunday, the team announced.

Clarke re-injured himself in the first half against the Minnesota Timberwolves and did not return to the game after he was questionable to play in that matchup. He did not play Monday against the Indiana Pacers due to soreness in the area.

The Grizzlies have shown that they will exercise caution when dealing with injuries, especially to their younger players. The team announced on Saturday that Ja Morant will be week-to-week with back spasms after crashing into a courtside camera operator.

Clarke has emerged as a key rotational piece for the Grizzlies this season.

In 18 games, Clarke is averaging 11.8 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.3 assists, while he is shooting 63% from the field. He has been among the most efficient players in the NBA this season.

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Rookie Wire Power Rankings: Herro, Hunter rise up the ranks in Week 5

Rookie Wire took a look at the top rookies through the fifth week of the 2019-20 NBA season.

The 2019 NBA Draft class has continued to impress this season.

The group has produced some fascinating storylines thus far with the emergence of several under-the-radar players while the top players selected are playing as expected.

Rookie Wire will compile the rankings of the five best players each week based on how they performed on the court. The rankings are not for Rookie of the Year purposes but, rather, to illustrate the top-performing players week to week.

Here are the Rookie Wire Power Rankings for Week 5:

Week 1 Power Rankings | Week 2 Power Rankings | Week 3 Power Rankings | Week 4 Power Rankings

All stats are through games played on Nov. 26

5. Tyler Herro, Heat

Stats: 14.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists

Rank Last Week: Honorable Mention

Herro returns to the rankings for the first time since Week 1 after showing out recently for the Heat. The 13th overall pick is back up to fifth in scoring among all rookies after recording 18 points in three of his last four games. Herro has proven to be able to get hot this season and is seemingly always a candidate to go off, thus making him one of the top rookies to watch on any given night. His swag, as Jimmy Butler said, is one reason to tune in.

4. Brandon Clarke, Grizzlies

Stats: 12.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.1 blocks

Rank Last Week: 4

While Ja Morant has captured the bulk of the headlines in Memphis, and rightfully so, Brandon Clarke has also emerged onto the scene. While he is seventh in scoring, Clarke gets it done all over the court and his shot selection has truly been a revelation. He is one of the most efficient players in the league after shooting 63.6% from the field and has developed one of the nicest floaters in the NBA today. An expanded role in the Grizzlies’ system could increase his numbers but he has flourished to this point of the season.

3. Eric Paschall, Warriors

Stats: 16.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists

Rank Last Week: 3

The second-round pick has certainly not played like one this season. Paschall is third in scoring average among rookies but is second in total points scored, trailing Ja Morant by just five. Given the number of injuries to the Warriors, Paschall has emerged as one of the top options on offense and has been a bright spot for the team thus far. He is coming off of his second double-double of the season with 13 points and 10 rebounds in a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

2. Kendrick Nunn, Heat

Stats: 16.9 points, 3.3 assists, 2.5 rebounds, 1.3 steals

Rank Last Week: 2

Nunn is fresh off of one of his most efficient outings of the season on Monday night. The undrafted guard recorded 19 points against the Charlotte Hornets on 7-of-10 shooting from the field, including 5-of-6 from 3-point range. Nunn recently told Alex Kennedy of HoopsHype that he believes he can be a future All-Star and his first season with the Heat certainly has the makings of a successful career.

1. Ja Morant, Grizzlies

Stats: 19.1 points, 6.3 assists, 3.1 rebounds, 1.2 steals

Rank Last Week: 1

Morant turned in one of his most impressive games of the season on Saturday in a shootout with the Los Angeles Lakers. He recorded 26 points, six assists, five steals and three rebounds in the one-point loss. Morant became the first rookie since John Wall in 2010 to reach those numbers in a game. He followed that performance up with 19 points for his second career double-double on Monday in a game in which he left briefly after taking a scary fall into a courtside camera operator. He would return to the game and appeared to be fine but the Grizzlies certainly caught a break after he wasn’t seriously hurt.

Honorable Mention:

R.J. Barrett, Knicks: 15.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.4 steals

Barrett averaged 10.5 points over his last two games after sitting out Sunday due to an illness. He is still fourth in scoring among rookies and will look to get back on track Wednesday on the road against his hometown Toronto Raptors.

Coby White, Bulls: 13.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists

The boom-or-bust potential with White has been fascinating this season. He recorded a career-high 28 points on Saturday but followed that up with eight points on Monday. If he can gain some consistency this season, White would certainly have a place among the best in the rookie class. He is shooting 43.5% from 3-point range over his last four games.

Rui Hachimura, Wizards: 12.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists

Hachimura has struggled some over his last four games after shooting 43.6% from the field for the Wizards. Like White, he has also had issues with consistency at times as his playing time has been sporadic. Hachimura has shown flashes this season but, like most rookies, is still learning the ins and outs of the NBA.

On the Rise:

De’Andre Hunter, Hawks:

Suddenly, after a slow start to the season, Hunter has been on a tear recently. He scored the most points among rookies over the past week and is averaging 19.5 points over his last four games. He is shooting 50% from the field and 50% (11-of-22) from beyond the arc in that span.

Ky Bowman, Warriors:

The Warriors’ two-way rookie is averaging 19 points over his last three games, including a career-high 24 points against the Thunder on Monday. He has been on fire from all over the floor and is producing in a pinch for the injury-rattled Warriors.

Shout Out:

Tremont Waters, Celtics

With Kemba Walker out on Monday, the Celtics called up Waters from the G League. The two-way guard may have only scored seven points in his NBA debut but he made quite an impression on the team and it likely won’t be the last time we see Waters with the Celtics.

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Rookie Wire Power Rankings: Ja Morant continues reign on top in Week 4

Rookie Wire took a look at the top rookies through the fourth week of the 2019-20 NBA season.

As the NBA heads into a new week, the rookie class appears to be settling into the 2019-20 season.

The players that have performed well to this point are continuing to make a splash and others are beginning to rise up the ranks onto the mainstream radar after some strong recent outings.

Rookie Wire will compile the rankings of the five best players each week based on how they performed on the court. The rankings are not for Rookie of the Year purposes but, rather, to illustrate the top-performing players week to week.

Here are the Rookie Wire Power Rankings for Week 4:

Week 1 Power Rankings | Week 2 Power Rankings | Week 3 Power Rankings

All stats are through games played on Nov. 19

5. R.J. Barrett, Knicks

Stats: 15.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.3 steals

Rank Last Week: 4

While questions still linger about his workload, Barrett continues to go out and perform for the Knicks. As discussed on a recent episode of The HoopsHype Podcast with Alex Kennedy, the Knicks would like to prioritize Barrett seeing heavy minutes in order to work through his mistakes on the court to grow as a player. Barrett has shown that he isn’t afraid of the moment playing in New York and is showing maturity at his age. His efficiency has improved some after shooting 42.9% from 3-point range over his last three games and, suddenly, the Knicks have won two of three and could be on the verge of turning the corner.

4. Brandon Clarke, Grizzlies

Stats: 12.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.2 blocks

Rank Last Week: 5

Clarke continues to impress for the Grizzlies. The 21st overall pick has scored in double figures in seven straight games and is shooting 61.9% from the floor this season. As mentioned last week, Clarke is staying within his game, isn’t forcing things and is taking the shots he is comfortable with: Floaters, mid-range, layups, etc. With Ja Morant handling the bulk of the ball-handling duties, Clarke doesn’t need to be ultra-aggressive, which allows him to play his game. He is shooting 44.4% (8-of-18) from 3-point range and has been highly effective on offense.

3. Eric Paschall, Warriors

Stats: 16.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists

Rank Last Week: 3

If you had second-round pick Eric Paschall as the first rookie this season to record multiple 30-point games, give yourself a pat on the back because Paschall recently accomplished that feat on Sunday. He recorded 30 points for the Warriors in a loss to the Pelicans and previously had a career-high 34 earlier in the month. Paschall is now second among rookies in total points scored this season, trailing only Ja Morant. While the Warriors have certainly struggled this season, and could be on the verge of missing the playoffs, Paschall has emerged as a bright spot in an otherwise down season.

2. Kendrick Nunn, Heat

Stats: 17.8 points, 3.2 assists, 2.5 rebounds, 1.6 steals

Rank Last Week: 2

Kendrick Nunn has been an absolute revelation this season for the Heat and is a huge reason why they are third in the Eastern Conference. Nunn was recently nominated for the NBA Eastern Conference Player of the Week award, the second time he has been a finalist, after scoring at least 20 points in three straight games. He is second among all rookies in scoring average and first in field goals made and 3-pointers made. Nunn is on pace to shatter a number of Heat franchise rookie records and doesn’t appear to be slowing down any time soon.

1. Ja Morant, Grizzlies

Stats: 18.5 points, 6 assists, 3.2 rebounds

Rank Last Week: 1

Ja Morant continues his reign atop the Power Rankings for the third straight week. The Grizzlies guard is first in scoring among all rookies and is averaging 20.3 points over his last four games. He has proven to be a player the Grizzlies can trust in late-game situations as evident by his game-winner on Nov. 13 against the Charlotte Hornets. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr compared him to Allen Iverson given his size and toughness and it is easy to see the similarities between the two. While the Grizzlies may not be a playoff team this season, Morant has them as a must-watch team on League Pass.

Honorable Mention:

Coby White, Bulls: 13.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists

The Bulls rookie has that boom-or-bust potential that daily fantasy users know about all too well. White recently became the first rookie in NBA history to hit at least six 3-pointers in consecutive games but followed that up with a seven-point effort on Saturday. White will need to work on gaining consistency this season off of the bench but he has proven to have his moments in a small sample size.

Tyler Herro, Heat: 13.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.1 assists

An ankle injury limited Herro to just two games over the last week but Herro still put up 14 points per game in those outings. Herro has proven to be a solid scoring option off of the bench that can seemingly get hot at any moment. He ranks fifth in scoring among all rookies in the early going this season.

Rui Hachimura, Wizards: 13.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.7 assists

Hachimura had a bit of a quiet week after managing just 14 points in his last two games after scoring 21 on Nov. 13 against the Boston Celtics. He remains a work in progress on defense but has looked to be a better scorer and shooter than he was in college last season. Though he may not be among the best rookies yet, he has had a solid start to his career.

On the Rise:

Cameron Johnson, Suns: 9.1 points, 3.2 rebounds

Suns head coach Monty Williams recently shortened his rotation, paving the way for more playing time for Johnson. He is up to 11th in scoring among rookies and his 40.4% shooting from 3-point range is seventh among first-year players that have at least eight appearances this season.

Terence Davis, Raptors: 5 points, 2.4 rebounds, 1.8 assists

While his overall numbers don’t jump off of the page, he is averaging 8.5 points per game and shooting 50% from 3-point range over his last six games as he sees more time on the court.

Shout Out:

Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Pelicans: 7.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists

Alexander-Walker recently had a two-game stretch in which he tallied 46 total points but followed that up with a three-point outing on Tuesday night. His playing time has been sporadic so it has likely been a bit tough to settle in but he has shown flashes recently.

Daniel Gafford, Bulls: 21 points, 5 rebounds, 2 blocks

With an injury to Luke Kornet, the second-round pick stepped up in his first extended look of the season, recording a team-high 21 points on Monday night. If he can continue seeing consistent playing time, Gafford could be a name to look out for this season.

Dropped Out:

P.J. Washington, Hornets

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Rookie Wire Power Rankings: Ja Morant stays on top for Week 3

Rookie Wire took a look at the top rookies through the third week of the 2019-20 NBA season.

With three weeks officially in the books, it appears as though players are beginning to feel the rigors of the NBA season. More guys are getting banged up each week and some have missed time as a result.

When it comes to the rookie class so far, some players are starting to heat up while others are regressing after a hot start to open up the year. The fascinating part about this crop of first-year players, though, is there have been some players emerge seemingly out of nowhere to gain notoriety and perform well in the early going.

Rookie Wire will compile the rankings of the five best players each week based on how they performed on the court. The rankings are not for Rookie of the Year purposes but, rather, to illustrate the top-performing players week to week.

Here are the Rookie Wire Power Rankings for Week 3:

Week 1 Power Rankings | Week 2 Power Rankings

All stats are through games played on Nov. 12

5. Brandon Clarke, Grizzlies

Stats: 11.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.4 blocks, 1 assist

Rank Last Week: N/A

While Brandon Clarke is still just ninth among rookies in scoring, the 21st overall pick has really emerged over the past week or so. He is averaging 15 points and six rebounds over his last three games and is shooting a blistering 69.2% from the field. In fact, his 60% field-goal percentage on the season ranks fifth in the NBA among all players. He went a perfect 7-of-7 from the field on Nov. 6 for 18 points and shot 6-of-7 two games later on Monday for 14 points. Clarke is taking shots he is most comfortable with and is rarely forcing things. He may not shoot 60% all season long but if he continues taking good shots and doesn’t it, he should have a strong first year with the Grizzlies.

4. R.J. Barrett, Knicks

Stats: 16 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.4 steals

Rank Last Week: 2

Prior to recording 21 points on Tuesday night, R.J. Barrett had struggled over his previous two games, recording just 12 combined points on just 25% (5-of-20) shooting from the field. His workload remains astronomical this season with the Knicks and doesn’t appear to be slowing down, at least as long as David Fizdale is running the show. Barrett started off the season strong but has since struggled with his efficiency from all over the court — the mid-range, 3-pointers and at the rim. Given his workload and role in the offense as the main option, Barrett could see his inconsistent play continue until he breaks out of his slump but it shouldn’t take away from the fact that he has been an exciting player to watch this season.

Exhibit A:

3. Eric Paschall, Warriors

Stats: 15.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.4 assists

Rank Last Week: 4

As the Warriors continue to struggle, Eric Paschall has been among the few bright spots thus far this season. After dealing with so many injuries, 11 players have missed at least one game this season, the Warriors have been forced to rely on Paschall. He has responded by averaging 15.6 points per game, good for fourth among rookies. He was forced to miss a game recently due to a hip injury but he returned on Monday to score eight points and six rebounds in a losing effort. Touted as a player that could contribute now, Paschall has shown that he has the potential to go off during games as evident by his career-high 34-point performance on Nov. 4. While the Warriors could miss the playoffs this season, the emergence of Paschall has been encouraging for the future.

2. Kendrick Nunn, Heat

Stats: 16.9 points, 2.8 assists, 2.3 rebounds, 1.6 steals

Rank Last Week: 3

The undrafted Kendrick Nunn continues to show that he belongs near the top of the rookie class this year. On Tuesday, Nunn helped the Heat overcome several injuries, including one to rookie teammate Tyler Herro, by scoring 20 points in a 117-108 win over the Detroit Pistons, shooting 4-of-8 from 3-point range. Nunn ranks second in scoring among rookies, just trailing Ja Morant. Nunn had been a bit quiet over his previous five games but bounced back in a big way on Tuesday and continues to be an under-the-radar player on the verge of a strong season.

1. Ja Morant, Grizzlies

Stats: 17.8 points, 5.2 assists, 3.6 rebounds, 1 steal

Rank Last Week: 1

Since erupting for 26 points on Nov. 6, Ja Morant has struggled some over his last two games but the second overall pick has been sensational for the Grizzlies this season. After that game, Morant became the first player since Michael Jordan during the 1984-85 season to average at least 20 points and five assists on 50% shooting through his first seven career games. His numbers have dropped a tad since then but Morant is still first among rookies in scoring and perhaps the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year at this point. Of course, there is still plenty of basketball left to be played but Morant is showing his potential early on this season.

Honorable Mention:

P.J. Washington, Hornets: 13.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.4 steals

While P.J. Washington dropped out from our Week 2 rankings, the 11th overall selection had a solid week for the Hornets and is still sixth in rookie scoring. He still leads the class among qualified players in 3-point shooting at 48.6% and is second in rebounding and third in steals. He is getting it done on both ends of the floor given his versatility and has proven to be fun to watch this season.

Rui Hachimura, Wizards: 13.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.5 assists

Rui Hachimura is coming off one of his finest performances of the season after recording 21 points and seven rebounds on Friday against the Cleveland Cavaliers. He has battled through consistency issues — he went scoreless in 20 minutes on Nov. 6 — but has shown to have a short memory to bounce back the next night. Still, he has been one of the most entertaining rookies to this point.

Tyler Herro, Heat: 13.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists

The Heat rookie did not play Tuesday due to a sprained ankle but he has had a solid season to this point. Perhaps most impressive is Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra spoke very highly of him recently after saying he has seen improvement from Herro in each game. Herro has also drawn praise from his teammates for his work ethic, something that will only carry Herro in the future.

On the Rise:

Coby White, Bulls: 12.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists

After hitting seven 3-pointers alone in the fourth quarter on Tuesday night, it shouldn’t be a surprise White is on the rise. His burst gave him the highest scoring average among rookies over the past week and he will certainly try to continue that moving forward.

Cameron Johnson, Suns: 7.4 points, 2.8 rebounds

Suns head coach Monty Williams recently shortened his rotation, which has led to more playing time for Johnson. He has scored in double figures in back-to-back games for the first time this season and is coming off of an 11-point performance against the Lakers on Tuesday.

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Brandon Clarke is among the NBA leaders in field-goal percentage

Brandon Clarke has started off his rookie campaign on a tear and he is among the NBA leaders in shooting percentage as a result.

Memphis Grizzlies first-round pick Brandon Clarke has started off his rookie campaign on a tear shooting the ball. As a result, the 21st overall pick is among the NBA leaders in efficiency.

Through his first nine games, Clarke is averaging 11.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.4 blocks and one assist, while he is converting on 60% of his shots from the field and 41.7% from 3-point range. His field-goal percentage ranks fifth in the NBA among qualified players and while his 3-point percentage is outside of the top 20 in the NBA, it is 10th among rookies that have played at least seven games.

Clarke is playing smart this season with the Grizzlies and is attempting the bulk of his shots inside of his comfort zone. He often doesn’t force bad shots and is picking his spots from beyond the arc — he is 5-of-12 from deep.

On Monday, Clarke went 6-of-7 from the field in a win against the San Antonio Spurs for 14 points while he went a perfect 7-of-7 two games prior on Nov. 6 against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Grizzlies are likely happy with the production they have received from Clarke this season and he appears to be settling in as he progresses. It remains to be seen if he can continue his hot shooting all season but he has been impressive, nonetheless.

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