3. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics
Boston Celtics rookie Jayson Tatum is having quite the rookie campaign. He was recently named the Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month in December after averaging 14.6 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game for the Celtics. Tatum shot 52.9 percent from the field and 45.9 percent from 3-point land during the month as well.
On the season, Tatum is putting up 13.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.0 steals per game through 47 contests. He’s looked like anything but a rookie this season on Boston’s roster, starting in every game he’s appeared in. His development behind the 3-point line has also been something to marvel at. He’s shooting 45.1 percent from 3-point range on the season.
Defensively, Tatum has been special as well. He’s got a defensive rating of 98.7 when he’s on the floor this season. He ranks fourth among rookie starters this year, first if you consider the number of games he’s played.