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NBA Rookie Rankings 12/8/14: Welcome Back, Sixers Players

By Nathan Giese

Nov 1, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Tony Wroten (8) and Philadelphia 76ers guard K.J. McDaniels (14) celebrate against the Miami Heat during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Heat defeated the 76ers, 114-96. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 1, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Tony Wroten (8) and Philadelphia 76ers guard K.J. McDaniels (14) celebrate against the Miami Heat during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Heat defeated the 76ers, 114-96. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 20, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard P.J. Hairston (19) attempts a three-point basket in the final seconds of the game against Atlanta Hawks forward Mike Scott (32) at Philips Arena. Hairston did not make the shot and the Atlanta Hawks won 117-114 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 20, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard P.J. Hairston (19) attempts a three-point basket in the final seconds of the game against Atlanta Hawks forward Mike Scott (32) at Philips Arena. Hairston did not make the shot and the Atlanta Hawks won 117-114 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

On The Cusp:

Nikola Mirotic, Chicago Bulls – We took a look at Mirotic last week, who has been impressing with his expanded role as of late. However, Saturday night against the Golden State Warriors, Mirotic only saw the floor for eight minutes and failed to score, ending a streak of scoring in double-digits while playing double-digit minutes in seven of his last nine games. Playing time is key for Mirotic, as he’s productive when he gets it. When he doesn’t, however, he doesn’t have an impact.

Zach LaVine, Minnesota Timberwolves – LaVine was always going to be a long-term project for the Timberwolves, but injuries have forced their hand to play the rookie more than they expected prior to the season. He’s done well so far, but his production is all over the place. He takes ill-advised shots and doesn’t seem completely comfortable yet. That will come, and he’s keeping his turnovers down while playing mostly point guard (1.9 per game), but consistency would be nice.

Keep an Eye On:

P.J. Hairston, Charlotte Hornets – As the Hornets continue to falter offensively, look for Hairston to get more playing time. He missed the first few games due to injury, but in his 13 games played, Hairston’s on the floor over 15 minutes per game. He’s only shooting 33 percent from the field and 34 percent from three, but an adjustment period may help Hairston get over the hump and be a key contributor off the bench.

Next: No. 5