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Top-10 Rookie Rankings: Where does Mario Hezonja Stand Thus Far?

By Brett David Roberts

Nov 23, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Jahlil Okafor (8) boxes out against Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) in the fourth quarter at Target Center. The Timberwolves win 100-95 over the 76ers. Mandatory Credit: Marilyn Indahl-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 23, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Jahlil Okafor (8) boxes out against Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) in the fourth quarter at Target Center. The Timberwolves win 100-95 over the 76ers. Mandatory Credit: Marilyn Indahl-USA TODAY Sports /
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D'Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers, Jahlil Okafor, Philadelphia 76ers
Jan 1, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell (1) drives to the basket as Philadelphia 76ers center Jahlil Okafor (8) defends in the second half of the game at Staples Center. Lakers won 93-84. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /

7. D’Angelo Russell

D’Angelo Russell drew some laughs when he did his Kobe Bryant impersonation in throwing up a wicked airball. But that kind of thing may be best reserved for Vine, because Russell sure has not faired much better than Bryant this season.

While the glimmers of superstar potential have been there, Russell is failing to capitalize on a perfect situation to showcase his talents — at least so far.

In 28 minutes per game, the former Ohio State Buckeye has averaged 11.7 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.4 assists. Where the story gets ugly is his 39 percent shooting and the fact the Lakers are 7-27 despite having two rookies in this top-10.

While most look at the Lakers as performing Kobe Bryant’s farewell to the NBA, the chance is still there for Russell to prove himself further. He has not played poorly this season, but he certainly is nowhere near the level to even jokingly parody Bryant’s struggles.

Next: Another defensive ace