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#2 Kendrick Nunn - Miami Heat
Following a series of timid performances, Kendrick Nunn enjoyed somewhat of a resurgent week. Over games against the Pacers, Nets, and Knicks, Nunn averaged 15 points while shooting over 60 percent from the field. This included a 20 point performance against New York, and Nunn's field goal percentage has now increased to just under 45 percent for the season.
Through 39 appearances, Nunn is averaging 15.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, although the 24-year-old continues to receive some criticism for his playmaking skills. Nevertheless, the undrafted guard has been among the biggest surprises of the season, and he is still best positioned to challenge the current frontrunner for the Rookie of the Year Award.
#1 Ja Morant - Memphis Grizzlies
Ja Morant has been the frontrunner to secure the Rookie of the Year award for much of the season, and the 20-year-old has only strengthened his case during the first two weeks of the new year. After impressing against the Clippers and Kings last week, Morant started Week 12 by dropping 25 points on the Timberwolves as he connected with 12 of his 18 attempts from the field.
This was followed up by arguably his most well-rounded performance of the season as he recorded 22 points, 7 rebounds, 14 assists, and 2 steals during Memphis' win over the Spurs. For the season, the dynamic point guard is leading rookies in points (17.8) and assists (6.9) per game, and his lead in the race to be named this season's best rookie is only getting bigger.
