We’re at the point of the season where the rookies start to solidify themselves into the rising stars game. Safe to say, these five will be participating come All-Star weekend. This week we saw multiple exploding performances that have elevated some rookies into higher spots. Even throughout the dominant week for these young NBA stars, one rookie stands out from the rest of the pack. Let’s look at these rankings to see where your favorites stand this week.
Be sure to check out last week’s Power Rankings.
5. Josh Giddey, SF, Oklahoma City Thunder
Not many playmakers with the size of Giddey, but he sure knows how to move the ball effectively. The Melbourne, Australia native had a huge Friday night against the Charlotte Hornets. He scored 21 in the outing while also collecting nine rebounds. While Giddey can explode for tremendous offensive performances, his work on the glass and his involvement have kept him with a substantial role for the Thunder. He’s averaging just over seven rebounds per game while also having six assists a contest. The 19-year-old rookie will be a solid player for the Thunder in years to come.
4. Scottie Barnes, SF, Toronto Raptors
After a couple of down weeks, Barnes exploded back onto the scene Friday night. Barnes set a new career-high with 27 points as the Raptors defeated the Washington Wizards. This was also the first 20 point outing for Barnes in 2022. This game was much needed for Barnes to improve his offensive scoring ability and confidence. Despite the solid performance, he struggled against the Portland Trail Blazers Sunday. He scored nine points, all from beyond the arc. He shot 3-11 in the outing. Barnes will look to find his mojo as the Raptors pursue the playoffs.
3. Franz Wagner, SF, Orlando Magic
Wagner had a solid week despite the Magic going 1-2 over the stretch. The shooting stroke continues for Wagner as he shows why he’s one of the best rookie sharpshooters. Friday night in the loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, Wagner scored 15 points on an efficient 66 percent shooting. He followed up in the win Sunday night against the Bulls as he shot 50 percent. He finished the night with 18 points, adding five assists and four rebounds. The Berlin, Germany native continues to impress.
2. Cade Cunningham, PG, Detroit Pistons
The question has lingered all season if Cunningham can be a consistent scorer and playmaker. He certainly made his case this week in grand fashion. Cunningham dropped a game-high 25 points in the loss to the Utah Jazz Friday. The star guard followed up with an 18 point eight assist performance against the Nuggets Sunday. The Arlington Texas native looked as comfortable with the ball as ever. Cunningham has been a gem in Detroit despite the Piston’s poor season.
1. Evan Mobley, C, Cleveland Cavaliers
Mobley is the clear front runner for Rookie of the year as he’s proven he’s the most consistent player in his class. Mobley held his own despite the loss to the Chicago Bulls Wednesday night. The San Diego, California native scored 18 points while grabbing five rebounds. Mobley fought with Nikola Vucevic, who had 24 points and 12 rebounds double-double.
While the result didn’t go Mobley’s way, he can take plenty out of the matchup with the veteran center. The 6’11” Rookie followed up with a dominant performance against the Thunder. He finished with an impressive 15 points and 17 rebounds as he got another double-double in the win. Outside of his recent performances, Mobley has entered an elite defensive company. He sits in fifth place in the latest defensive player of the year standings, one spot behind Joel Embiid. The Cavaliers have struck gold with their No. 3 pick.
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