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

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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Dec 6, 2014; Sacramento, CA, USA; Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) drives to the hoop against the Sacramento Kings in the first quarter at Sleep Train Arena. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Elfrid Payton, Orlando Magic

Elfrid Payton is one of those mystery rookies right now, but he’s done some great things for the Magic this season.

He’s only averaging 6.5 points per game, but that’s good enough for 10th among rookies, only shooting 38 percent, but, also, good for 10th. Payton does, however, lead rookies in assists (5.0) and is second in steals (1.43). It should also be noted that through 23 games last season, the Magic were 7-16. This season, without Victor Oladipo and Aaron Gordon for much of the season, Orlando is 9-14. Sure, it’s only two games, but any progress is good progress for Orlando.

Shooting is definitely not his strongest attribute, but Payton reminds me a bit of a young Rajon Rondo. Fearless, does whatever he can to win, does the dirty work and works his tail off. He’s more concerned about playing a role to help his team win than getting buckets and leading the league in scoring.

Next: No. 2