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2016 NBA Rookie Ladder: Is Kristaps Porzingis Struggling?

By Nathan Grubel

Mar 4, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) reacts during the first half of a game against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 4, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) reacts during the first half of a game against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports /
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March 4, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell (1) shoots against Atlanta Hawks during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
March 4, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell (1) shoots against Atlanta Hawks during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

2. D’Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers

D’Angelo Russell has advanced himself all the way to No. 2 in these rankings for good reason.

Over his last five games he’s looked like someone who could challenge for the best player in this rookie class, averaging 22.6 points per game. He’s taken over as one of the team’s leading scorers and even played well against the best team in the league in the Warriors on Sunday scoring 21 points while dishing five assists and grabbing four steals.

He’s shooting well from three-point range and scoring in a variety of ways. He looks more under control of late, and his poise and star power should lead to a few more unexpected wins by the end of the season for the Lakers.

Next: ROY Locked Up?