NBA Sixth Man of the Year Power Rankings: Austin Reaves shoots up the board
By Austin McGee
The Dallas Mavericks dominated both their games over the past week. First, Dallas destroyed the Utah Jazz by 50 points in a total onslaught.
Two days later, the shorthanded Mavericks defeated the Portland Trail Blazers by 13 points. Unfortunately for the Mavs, near catastrophe struck. Star guard Kyrie Irving suffered a foot injury as a result of friendly fire.
Although the injury appeared potentially significant, it was deemed to be only a heel contusion. And according to Irving, he'll be back soon.
NBA Sixth Man of the Year Power Rankings: Austin Reaves shoots up the board
Already without Josh Green, the Mavericks are suddenly thin at guard. Tim Hardaway Jr., who has been the third-best scorer on the team, will likely have an elevated role in the coming days.
With this in mind, Hardaway Jr.'s future endeavors will likely be amplified, thus prompting a rise in the power rankings. But for now, Hardaway Jr.'s spot is solidified within the top five. Find out where Hardaway Jr. ranks and what player went from five to two in a matter of seven days.
10. Tre Jones
Last week's rank: N/A
The San Antonio Spurs floor general enters the rankings after multiple well-rounded showings. The younger Jones brother leads all Spurs in assists, at 5.2 per game.
9. Naz Reid
Last week's rank: N/A
Despite playing behind two All-Star big men, Naz Reid averages 12.6 points in just 21.6 minutes per game. The Minnesota big man is a superb all-around scorer.
8. Moritz Wagner
Last week's rank: 7
Although Moritz Wager dropped four points Friday night, he still hasn't shot below 50 percent since November 15th. Wagner is shooting an astounding 63.3 percent from the floor this season while shooting 1.6 3-pointers per game.
7. Bogdan Bogdanovic
Last week's rank: 6
Bogdan Bogdanovic is one of the most reliable players in the league. The Hawks wing has scored double-digits and knocked down at least one 3-pointer in 17 straight contests.
6. Jaime Jaquez Jr.
Last week's rank: 8
Despite being a rookie, Jaime Jaquez Jr. plays like a veteran. The Heat forward was born to play for Miami. Jaquez Jr.'s game is a tad reminiscent of Heat star Jimmy Butler. He doesn't need to hoist threes to score 15-plus points.