Fansided

5 underrated NBA rookies to watch for in 2014

By Evan Massey

Mar 23, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; Wichita State Shockers forward Cleanthony Early (11) reacts against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half in the third round of the 2014 NCAA Men
Mar 23, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; Wichita State Shockers forward Cleanthony Early (11) reacts against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half in the third round of the 2014 NCAA Men /
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Mar 23, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; Wichita State Shockers forward Cleanthony Early (11) slaps five with Tekele Cotton (32) against the Kentucky Wildcats during the second half in the third round of the 2014 NCAA Men
Mar 23, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; Wichita State Shockers forward Cleanthony Early (11) slaps five with Tekele Cotton (32) against the Kentucky Wildcats during the second half in the third round of the 2014 NCAA Men /

2. Cleanthony Early, New York Knicks

Early was one of the more exciting college basketball players last season, and helped lead his Wichita State Shockers to an undefeated regular season. Unfortunately, the Shockers had their season end at the hands of the Kentucky Wildcats in the NCAA tournament. If Early hadn’t been on the team, it isn’t likely that Wichita State would have made it nearly as far.

Last season with the Shockers, Early ended up averaging 16.4 points and 5.9 rebounds, and showed off a lot of athleticism. Playing in New York as a rookie can be very difficult, but he has the talent and attitude to make it. Carmelo Anthony re-signed with the Knicks, and it’s likely that he will take Early under his wing and mentor him.

Phil Jackson saw a player that could be a big piece for the franchise in a couple seasons, and he pulled the trigger to give him a chance. There are some concerns about Early’s game, but nothing to be majorly worried about. He is going to have a role coming off of the bench this season, and will show that he belongs in the NBA right off the bat.

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