NBA Rookie Rankings: Trae Young continues his charge on Luka Doncic

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - MARCH 06: Trae Young #11 of the Atlanta Hawks reacts after a basket against the San Antonio Spurs in the second half at State Farm Arena on March 06, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. 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 Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

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PHOENIX, AZ – MARCH 6: Deandre Ayton #22 of the Phoenix Suns looks on during the game on March 6, 2019 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 2019 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images) /

3. Deandre Ayton

Putting up 19 points and 12 boards in a massive upset against the Bucks this week was a great example of what Ayton is capable of. He legitimately caused Giannis Antetekumpo problems on both ends of the floor. That’s a great accomplishment for any player in the NBA.

It’s, of course, even more impressive for a rookie like Ayton. He continues to be a productive player for the Suns whether or not they’re winning or losing. Fans in Phoenix might want to see a little more sizzle in his game, but no one can complain about the substance he puts in night after night.

We’ve talked a lot this season about his efficiency on the offensive end, but we probably haven’t given him enough praise for his ability to rebound the basketball. When you watch Ayton play you see a guy who boxes his opponent out and has the mobility to grab shots that carom outside of his immediate vicinity. His ability to board the ball on the defensive glass gives his guards a lot of chances to run out on the break.

No, Ayton hasn’t made great strides on the defensive end of the floor, but he does show a willingness to expend energy on that end of the court. Time will tell whether or not that can allow him to become an average defender. If it does, he’ll be an above-average starter for a long time.

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