The NBA regular season continues apace, with some teams already past the mark of 30 games played. A good time to take a look at the statistics produced by the rookies, a class of rookies that for the moment seems to meet the albeit robust expectations.
Teammates at Duke, Knueppel and Flagg both lead the team in scoring over 19 points per game. If it was reasonable to expect a similar performance for the first overall pick, we certainly cannot say the same for the Hornets’ winger. The shot remains the ‘strong piece’ of his game, but Knueppel is a complete attacker, already capable of turning the extra attention generated by his dangerous shot to his favor. It is above all thanks to him that the Hornets decided to give this group another chance.
Fears also deserves a mention in the surprises chapter, if only for his skill in taking advantage of the injuries that paved the way for him towards the Pelicans’ starting five. Personality to spare, shot better than expected, in the future he will reap the benefits of the many minutes played since his first season as a pro. Similar story for Queen, on which Dumars has bet significant assets. For now the facts are proving him right.
For Nembhard, it is only a matter of time before the Mavs decide to convert his Two-Way Contract, given the solidity he has shown on several occasions in managing the team. Demin’s ratings are rising, as he scored 20 points with 5 rebounds and 5 assists last night in the Nets’ win over the 76ers.
