With most NBA teams near the 30-game mark, it’s time to assess the top rookies in the NBA. Here’s a look at the top 10 picks from the draft.
1. Orlando: Dwight Howard
Right out of high school, Howard has started every game and averaged 10.5 points and 10.1 rebounds.
2. Charlotte (from LAC): Emeka Okafor
Fresh off a NCAA title, the Bobcats’ first pick is averaging 15.8 points and 11.6 rebounds per game.
3. BULLS: Ben Gordon
Okafor’s college teammate had a slow start but got off a season-high 31 points in one game last month.
4. L.A. Clippers: Shaun Livingston
Last year’s Mr. Illinois basketball played 11 games before injuring his knee and is expected back by the All-Star break.
5. Dallas (from WAS): Devin Harris
Seeing lots of floor time and ranks No. 2 in steals per turnover.
6. Atlanta: Josh Childress
6.3 ppg. coming off the bench for one of the NBA’s worst teams.
7. BULLS (from PHO): Luol Deng
The athletic forward (12.9 ppg.) has started 18-of-29 games and made an immediate impact.
8. Toronto: Rafael Araujo
Playing little, the 6-foot-11 center had a season-high 13 points in a game last week.
9. Philadelphia: Andre Iguodala
The 6-foot-6 forward from Arizona (8.6 ppg.) ranks No. 8 in the NBA steals this season.
10. Cleveland: Luke Jackson
The 6-foot-7 forward-guard out of Oregon has come off the bench and played in nine games to date.
