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NBA Top-10 Rookie Rankings: Has Mario Hezonja Moved Up?

By Brett David Roberts

Feb 8, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Orlando Magic guard Mario Hezonja (23) reacts after scoring against the Atlanta Hawks during overtime at Philips Arena. The Magic won 117-110 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 8, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Orlando Magic guard Mario Hezonja (23) reacts after scoring against the Atlanta Hawks during overtime at Philips Arena. The Magic won 117-110 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Julius Randle, Los Angeles Lakers
Feb 8, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Julius Randle (30) controls the ball against the Indiana Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The Indiana Pacers defeat the Los Angeles Lakers 89-87. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Julius Randle

Last Rank: 3

Julius Randle has only played even better as time has gone on. In the Los Angeles Lakers’ last 10 games, he is averaging 14.2 points, 12.2 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 0.8 blocks/steals while playing 31.1 minutes per game. His typically poor field goal percentage has been more than respectable, hitting 49.1 percent of his attempts.

Randle was NBA ready, and he is showing it as he takes more initiative in turning to his playmaking abilities. He is unafraid to put the ball on the floor, and he is not overly turnover prone while doing so.

The Anthony Mason comparison continues to remain valid, and the fact both are southpaws kind of makes it all the more appropriate.

Randle said he would average a double-double this season and many balked at him. Well, to date he is averaging 11 points and 10 rebounds on the season.

Next: Playmaking Sans Jumpers