NBA Awards Watch: Watch Out Here Comes Elfrid Payton

NBA Awards Watch: Watch Out A. Wiggins, Because Here Comes Elfrid Payton

Jan 14, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard Victor Oladipo (5) and guard Elfrid Payton (4) high five after Oladipo dunked against the Houston Rockets during the second half at Amway Center. Orlando Magic defeated the Houston Rockets 120-113. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jan 17, 2015; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Nerlens Noel (4) drives to the basket during the third quarter against Detroit Pistons center Andre Drummond (0) at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Detroit won 107-89. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Nerlens Noel – Philadelphia 76ers/PF

Last Week: No. 5

The week has been extremely good to the Philadelphia 76ers center, Nerlens Noel. The rookie from the University of Kentucky might have played the best game of his career when he played the New Orleans Pelicans.

In the 33 minutes of playing time that he had, Noel put on a show as he went for yet another double double in his rookie season with 17 points while 7-for-10 shooting from the floor, grabbing 11 rebounds, dishing out two assists, getting two steals, and blocking five shots.

Noel was very active as he was flying over the rim to grab offensive rebounds and tip dunk them in. What was more impressive to see was the moves that Noel made when he got the basketball.

At one point in the game while Omer Asik was defending him Noel caught the basketball on the right block. Noel took one dribble inside, made a pivot and shot the basketball with a hook shot over his right shoulder and nailed it. If he can develop a shot like this as a go to move, or a counter move then he’s already on the correct path to developing.

In addition later in the week Noel also had a great game when he played the Washington Wizards. Noel had 11 points, seven rebounds, three assists, four steals, and one blocked shot in 31 minutes.

Next: 2. Elfrid Payton