NBA Rookie Ladder: Did Scottie Barnes end the year on top?

Green is finally back in the fold after an injury, and he’s rewarded Houston’s faith in his scoring skills by putting up back-to-back 20-point games in his first two games. Green is starting to be a better interior finisher, which could help him round into form and become a more consistent high-level scorer.

Green is never going to be an amazing defender, but he’s already starting to look more comfortable and confident on the offensive end. With Houston all but guaranteed to miss the playoffs, now is the time to let Green freestyle and figure out what he can and can’t get away with.

NBA Rookie Ladder: Don’t sleep on Herb Jones.

Jones was thrust into the Pelicans starting lineup due to Zion Williamson’s injury woes, but he’s played so well that he may not be removed when No. 1 is healthy again. Since December 17, Jones is averaging 13.8 points and 5.8 rebounds per game while playing some impressive defense.

Jones has been the best second-round pick in the 2021 class this season, as players like Dalano Banton and Ayo Dosunmu are all fighting for second place. Jones might not become a star, but he is a proven rotation player that is more than worth a nice new contract in New Orleans.