NBA Rookie Power Rankings: Mavericks' Lively II falls, Pistons' Thompson rises

2. Ausar Thompson

Last week's rank: 3

Entering the year, Ausar Thompson's name would never have been mentioned in the same breath as "Rookie of the Year." However, it's clear today that Thompson has become the highest riser for the prestigious award.

Averaging a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, Thompson has shocked many as a rookie. His elite rebounding and amazing defensive presence have made him a potential All-Defensive Team kind of player.

Behind his double-double, Thompson has averaged a steal and two blocks per game, which only makes his case for all defense that much deeper.

Thompson has been regarded as having a veteran-type playstyle already just a few games into his rookie season. With the numbers he has put up, it's hard not to consider Thompson for Rookie of the Year.

The only concern fans have had with Thompson has been his shooting. Through 12 games, Thompson has marked an embarrassing 15 percent from behind the arc. It's clear that Thompson's offensive upside isn't due to his shooting numbers, but if he can develop a shot, the sky is the limit for the young Piston.

It will be important that Thompson at least becomes respectable from behind the arc, but as it stands, he will find himself just under the number one spot in this week's rookie rankings.