One of the most entertaining subplots of every NBA season is watching how the much-hyped rookie class progresses. Is this guy outperforming everyone's expectations? Is so-and-so failing to live up to the hype? Which second round pick is making an impact out of nowhere?
Generally, we want the NBA faces of tomorrow to start making noise today. So how are the top two picks, Andrew Wiggins and Jabari Parker, doing so far? ESPN's David Thorpe weighs in.
Something good he's seen from Wiggins is him "Being assertive," Thorpe writes. "Wiggins has shown he isn't afraid of taking shots and making plays. He has confidence that he can make shots, using shooting mechanics that are fluid and relatively consistent. His first made basket as a pro was a 3-pointer, the first of many to be sure. Unlike most elite-level athletes who enter the NBA needing to work on their shooting, Wiggins is already solid in this area."
Although Wiggins' stat line isn't eye opening - 9.8 points per game and 4.3 rebounds - the makings of a quality ball player are there. He has elite defensive potential and, unlike most rookies, he has already shown his willingness to work his tail off on that end. However, Wiggins will need to become more patient with the ball and learn when to slow things down. He has one of the worst turnover rates among rookies so far this season.
Parker has also impressed Thorpe.
"After losing some weight, Parker is moving well and taking advantage of his better body by being active on the glass and in the transition game. To be a franchise player, this is one huge step in the right direction.
"He totaled 21 rebounds in two games last week by just being aggressive to the ball after a shot. With great hands and a feel for the game, he is a natural rebounder, especially now that he can flow to the ball better. His ability as a ball handler also enables him to start the break by himself, which is a big advantage for his team."
Similar to Wiggins, Parker must also learn better control. The Milwaukee Bucks rank 24th in turnover rate, an unfortunate statistic that Parker is directly contributing to.
Despite these early mistakes, both players have incredibly high ceilings and should develop nicely over the course of the season.
