NBA Rookie Rankings: Luka Doncic extends his lead

DALLAS, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 02: Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on November 02, 2018 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

4 of 5

PHOENIX, AZ – OCTOBER 31: Deandre Ayton #22 of the Phoenix Suns looks on during a game against the San Antonio Spurs on October 31, 2018 at Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2. Deandre Ayton

It’s pretty hard to argue with Ayton’s level of production for the Suns to date. Counting stats aren’t everything, but averaging 15.9 points and 10.9 rebounds per night as a rookie is still impressive. The question for Ayton becomes whether or not he can build on his hot start.

To do that, Ayton is going to need to diversify his offensive game. He’s come into the NBA with a post game that’s well ahead of where most scouts thought he’d be. That, combined with his ability to hit mid-range jumpers has allowed him to keep defenders off-balance.

Unfortunately, post-ups and mid-range jump shots are some of the most inefficient offensive plays in basketball. That means Ayton needs to work hard on becoming a better rim-runner and 3-point shooter if he really wants to blossom into an offensive star. He has the physical skills to do both, but it might require an offseason or two of hard work.

We’d also be remiss if we didn’t give Ayton credit for being a better defender than most people expected. He still doesn’t show tremendous instincts, but his ability to stop big men one-on-one has been a boost for the Suns’ defensive scheme. Ayton has a long way to go before he understands NBA rotations, but he’s not hopeless on the defensive end of the floor.

Home/NBA