Welcome back to our weekly rookie rankings. It’s gearing down towards the end of the season and it has become very clear who this year’s top rookies are. They have one last push to make a good impression to voters. Remember to check back with us every week as when rank this year’s rookie class.
1. Joel Embiid, Center, Philadelphia 76ers
You might be wondering why Embiid is still number one in our rankings? The answer is simple and it is that he was so much better than the other rookies when he was on the court. Even though his season has ended the displayed the poise and skills of players who have been in the league for years. Another rookie could dethrone him but not yet.
2. Dario Saric, Forward, Philadelphia 76ers
Saric has continued his strong play since he has been given the reigns of the offense. Against the Boston Celtics on Sunday night he finished with 23 points, six rebounds, and four assists. Lately those are the type of numbers he has been putting up on a nightly basis. He has enough time left in the season to take the top overall spot but he has to keep his play up for the rest of the season.
3. Malcolm Brogdon, Guard, Milwaukee Bucks
Brogdon is a very important piece for the Bucks as they look to secure a playoff spot. In the month of March he is averaging 12.6 points and 3.1 assists per game. He has been extremely good from the three-point line shooting 40.8 percent. If he wants to move up in our rankings he has to step up his play down the stretch.
4. Marquese Chriss, Forward, Phoenix Suns
Even though the Suns the are at the bottom of the NBA, Chriss has been a bright spot for them this season. Against the Detroit Pistons on Sunday night he scored 16 points and grabbed seven rebounds. His shooting percentage has increased to 50.6 percent over the month of March. He has established himself as one of the best rookies in this year’s class.
5. Brandon Ingram, Forward, Los Angeles Lakers
Ingram’s play has dramatically improved over the last few weeks. In his last ten games he is averaging 12.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. He has shown flashes of his potential and it is very exciting to see the type of player he could become in the future. As the Lakers’ season comes to end it will be important for Ingram to play well so that he can head into the offseason with momentum and confidence.
Honorable Mention: Willy Hernangomez, Buddy Hield, Jamal Murray