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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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Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns
Feb 8, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) dribbles the ball up the court against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Stewart-USA TODAY Sports /

6. Devin Booker

Last Rank: Unranked

Devin Booker is now looking like he may have star potential. Or at least be more of a sure rotation player than when we last did these rankings.

In the Phoenix Suns’ last 10 games he has averaged 17.5 points, 3.1 rebounds and 3.4 assists while playing 35.9 minutes per game. That is the stuff of veterans. Booker is knocking down 40.7 percent from 3-point range, earning him a trip to Toronto to be in the 3-point shootout.

Booker’s late run of play included a 27-point performance in a 104-97 loss to the Toronto Raptors on Feb. 2. Booker’s increased production may be because of the vast increase in playing time from Eric Bledsoe’s injury, but it is clear by his play he has now earned a permanent spot in the rotation.

Booker has averaged 36.4 minutes per game in the last five games, and the Suns will hope he does not hit the rookie wall.

Phoenix is now 14-39 on the season, and so developing Booker is one of the few things the Suns can accomplish this season.

Next: The Changing of the Guards