NBA Rookie Power Rankings: Wembanyama drops, who takes the No. 1 spot?

Nov 22, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II (2) dunks for
Nov 22, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II (2) dunks for / Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
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On Wednesday, the Dallas Mavericks embarked on their first West Coast trip this season, where they beat the Los Angeles Lakers 104-101 in nail-biting fashion. However, the trip doesn't end there, they will play the LA Clippers once again where the Clippers will look to get a little revenge.

Entering this two-game road trip, the Mavs were on a two-game losing streak, dropping back-to-back games to the Bucks and Kings. Clearly, the team needed a win against the Lakers, and they didn't disappoint.

In a game that kept Mavs fans up past midnight, the Mavericks would blow a 20-point lead late in the fourth and regain the lead once again by the brilliance of Kyrie Irving.

NBA Rookie Power Rankings: Wembanyama drops, who takes the No. 1 spot?

If it wasn't for Irving, this game would have felt eerie similar to many of the Mavericks' losses in the previous season. However, Irving put the team on his back and in the process, dropped 28 points. Irving seems to be putting his early season struggles in the past, as in the last few games, Irving has gone off.

Additionally, other Mavericks stepped up. Josh Green finally had a positive game and finished with 15 points in a pivotal bench role. He helped the Mavs not only in scoring but brought much-needed energy when the team needed it the most in the fourth quarter.

Dereck Lively II also contributed to his 19-minute showing. He had 10 rebounds and created many second-chance opportunities for the Mavericks. However, Lively II's night would be cut short due to a scary fall he took attempting to finish a lob.

Despite a scary fall, it seems Lively II avoided a serious injury as he insisted he was fine.

Despite his scary fall, Lively II hasn't missed a beat all season long and continues to impress many fans. Let's take a look at this week's Rookie Power Rankings.

10. Keyonte George

Last Week's Rank: 8

George has continued to prove his worth for the Utah Jazz and continues to get a more expanded role as the season goes along.

9. Craig Porter

Last Week's Rank: N/A

Many disregarded Porter when he signed with the Cavs on a two-way deal. However, Porter has shined in his time on the floor, including a 21-point outing earlier this week.

8. Jaime Jaquez Jr.

Last Week's Rank: 7

Jaquez has continued to shine in the Miami system. He has earned legit minutes off the bench and has contributed in a big way. Earlier this week, Jaquez had a 19-point game against the Chicago Bulls.

7. Bilal Coulibaly

Last Week's Rank: 9

Bilal has earned some legit playing time and continues to get better. His one question mark entering his rookie season was his shooting, and Bilal shot 55 percent from behind the arc.

6. Brandon Miller

Last Week's Rank: 6

Miller continues to get comfortable on an NBA court but has contributed to some Hornets' wins. In a loss to the Knicks, Miller had a career-high 29 points.