NBA Rookie Power Rankings: Brandon Miller falls, who takes his place?

Jan 1, 2024; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II (2) dunks over Utah
Jan 1, 2024; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II (2) dunks over Utah / Christopher Creveling-USA TODAY Sports
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5. Brandon Miller

Last week's rank: 4

Brandon Miller's name slides from the No. 4 spot in the Power Rankings after the Charlotte Hornets lose 11 games in a row.

Miller has continued to play at a steady rate all season long, and it's been no different this past week. The former No. 2 overall pick has continued to dominate on the offensive end, yet it has not contributed to any wins.

After the Hornets fell to 7-24 and lost 11 games in a row, it was clear something needed to change. On Wednesday, the Hornets took on the Sacramento Kings without their rookie. Miller was out due to a lower-body injury, but the Hornets would trek on and upset the Kings 111-104.

Miller's absence was by no means the reason why they won, but it could be an indication that maybe their young rookie needs some development on the defensive end. After holding one of the best offenses in the league to just 104 points, Miller's defense could have been one of the culprits.

Miller has continued to look promising on the offensive side of the ball as he scored 20 points in a loss to the Phoenix Suns. Offensively, his biggest comparison has been Kevin Durant with the way he can elevate above defenders on jump shots.

One day, Miller could potentially be as elite as Durant on offense, but fans have yet to see the defensive comparisons. Miller will not only need to continue dominating on offense, but he will also need to show development on defense if he wishes to stay inside the top five.