NBA Rookie Power Rankings: Brandon Miller skyrockets, who falls?

Jan 29, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA;  Charlotte Hornets forward Brandon Miller (24) looks
Jan 29, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Brandon Miller (24) looks / Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports
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With just four days left before the February 8 trade deadline, the Dallas Mavericks have yet to make a move. Despite being in countless rumors, the team has neglected to pull the trigger on any type of trade.

The Mavericks have continued to be linked to multiple players that fit the archetype that Mark Cuban wants. One of which is Charlotte Hornets forward P.J. Washington. Washington and Dallas have been linked since last month, but Dallas elected not to pursue him during his free agency this summer.

Recently, the two sides have been more connected than ever after recent reporting shows that Dallas has shown interest in Washington. Fans have been begging the Mavericks to make a move for Washington ever since his 43-point performance last Saturday.

NBA Rookie Power Rankings: Brandon Miller skyrockets, who falls?

Adding a player like Washington could elevate the play of rookie Dereck Lively II. Having a lengthy defensive forward alongside the former Blue Devil could maximize the rookie's potential. However, Dallas could look to make a bigger splash over the coming days.

Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma has been a hot talking point on the trade block, and the Mavericks could be buyers after recent reports of a price drop.

Having a player of Kuzma's presence on the court could maximize this team's potential. Alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, Kuzma could reach career highs in both shooting and efficiency. Currently, the Wizards forward averages 22 points per outing and 6.5 rebounds per game.

With just days remaining before the trade deadline, let's take a look at how some of the top rookies are fairing in this week's NBA Rookie Power Rankings.

10. Cam Whitmore

Last week's rank: N/A

Cam Whitmore has surged into the top 10 after a strong week of games. The 19-year-old has continued to progress in his game and now finds himself a valuable spot in the Rockets rotation. Whitmore has wowed fans with his explosiveness and even slammed home this coast-to-coast dunk earlier this week.

9. Scoot Henderson

Last week's rank: 9

One of the only rookies to maintain his spot in this week's rankings is Scoot Henderson. The former G League alum has worked his way into a starting role for the Blazers and continues to shock fans with his flashy playmaking.

8. Keyonte George

Last week's rank: 7

The Dallas native has continued to slip down the rankings in recent weeks. At one point, Keyonte George was a top-five rookie in his class but has since slowly fallen out of the top seven ever since.

7. Jordan Hawkins

Last week's rank: 8

Slowly but surely, the former UConn Husky has worked his way into a rotational role for the New Orleans Pelicans. Jordan Hawkins has had multiple games of 20-plus points and multiple games of zero production. If he wishes to rise, he will need to find some consistency within his game.

6. Brandin Podziemski

Last week's rank: 6

Despite Golden State's recent struggles, Brandin Podzeimski has been positive on both ends of the floor. His play has yet to translate to any wins, but the guard has proven to be a piece you cannot trade at the upcoming trade deadline.