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NBA Rookie Ladder Week 12: Protocols in the rearview mirror

By Corey Rausch

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 08: Franz Wagner #22 of the Orlando Magic goes for a high five during the first quarter against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on January 08, 2022 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 08: Franz Wagner #22 of the Orlando Magic goes for a high five during the first quarter against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on January 08, 2022 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images) /
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PORTLAND, OREGON – JANUARY 07: Evan Mobley # 4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reaches for a rebound during the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on January 07, 2022 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images)
PORTLAND, OREGON – JANUARY 07: Evan Mobley # 4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reaches for a rebound during the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on January 07, 2022 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images) /

Week 12 NBA Rookie Ladder: 2. Franz Wagner

15.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.0 steals

Shooting splits: .452/.363/.844

Franz Wagner continues to be an absolute ironman as one of the few rookies to play in every game this season. While his streak of double-digit scoring games came to an end against the Detroit Pistons at 21 games, Wagner was not less impressive this week.

Wagner is the most complete rookie so far not named Evan Mobley and remains the lone bright spot for an Orlando Magic squad that has officially moved into the number one spot at the bottom of the standings.

Week 12 NBA Rookie Ladder: 1. Evan Mobley

14.8 points, 8.1 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.8 blocks

Shooting splits: .499/.300/.733

Nothing is shaking Evan Mobley from the top spot yet (thought Cade Cunningham took a step towards that last night). He is arguably even better after coming back from health and safety protocols, averaging 18.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game.

He has not grabbed 10 or more rebounds in eight games, but the defensive intensity is and has been his calling card. Plenty of buzz has arisen as the halfway point nears that Mobley may end up in the discussion for an All-Defense team, not just Rookie of the Year.

The fact that this is even under consideration at this point in his progression tells you all you need to know. Mobley is truly special.

Next. 1 trade target for every Central Division team. dark