NBA Rookie Power Rankings: What changes after Chet Holmgren dominates Spurs?
By Jaren Boslow
For the second-straight game, the Dallas Mavericks have been embarrassed on their home floor. After a crushing 119-110 loss to the Boston Celtics on Monday night, the Mavericks faced off against the Phoenix Suns for the annual NBA Rivals week.
The Mavericks were looking for a much-needed bounce-back win against the Suns. After a solid first quarter that saw the Mavericks outscore the Suns 34-25, things looked bright in the AAC. With a combination of lights-out shooting and elite defense, the Mavericks would clamor onto a one-point lead after the first half.
Despite a Phoenix run at the end of the second quarter, things were looking good for Dallas. However, the tide shifted drastically in the Suns' favor, and they never let go. In the third quarter alone, the Suns outscored the Mavs 43-20, erasing what once was a 16-point Maverick lead.
NBA Rookie Power Rankings: What changes after Chet Holmgren dominates Spurs?
After the Mavericks' shameful 132-109 loss to their bitter rival, fans were calling for an immediate change. Rebounding and defense have been at the top of the list for needs in Dallas, and after Wednesday's loss, it's clear the Mavericks need to make a move now.
After the Charlotte Hornets recently traded away guard Terry Rozier to the Miami Heat, the Hornets could be on a potential fire sale that the Mavs may be willing to buy in on.
Regardless of the Mavericks' recent attempts to get involved in trades, they need to win now with the unit they have. Rookie Dereck Lively II has had a tough task all season but has seemed to handle it well despite the Mavs' recent losing skid. With this in mind, let's take a look at this week's NBA Rookie Power Rankings.
10. Ausar Thompson
Last week's rank: 10
After not moving in this week's rankings, Ausar Thompson is in real danger of falling out of the top 10. The former OTE superstar has played well throughout his rookie season but has recently dropped off in playing time.
9. Scoot Henderson
Last week's rank: 8
Despite dropping in this week's rankings, Scoot Henderson has reclaimed his spot as one of this draft class's top rookies. Scoot is now in the top five in both assists and points scored for his rookie class.
8. Jordan Hawkins
Last week's rank: 9
Jordan Hawkins has risen the boards in recent weeks after another strong week. Hawkins has scored and taken the most threes amongst any rookie this season. He is expected to rise if his role continues to get bigger in New Orleans.
7. Keyonte George
Last week's rank: 6
Keyonte George has steadily risen over the last month but will drop after losing three straight games. George has been a huge factor in Utah's recent success. Expect him and the Jazz to bounce back.
6. Brandin Podziemski
Last week's rank: 7
Brandin Podziemski has once again proven why he is one of the top rookies in his draft class. The former No. 19 overall pick has continued to show why he is one of the Warriors' few bright spots in a rough season.