#4 RJ Barrett - New York Knicks
The New York Knicks' awful start to the season got worse over the past week as they slipped to 2-8. Rumors are also swirling that a change in coach is coming, although RJ Barrett's performances have been good enough to justify the Knicks taking him with the third pick in the 2019 draft.
The 19-year-old is currently averaging 15.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, although it should be noted that his performances have been in decline following his fast start. Despite averaging almost 15 field goal attempts per game, Barrett has only scored more than 20 points on one occasion since opening week, and he managed just three points in 35 minutes against the Dallas Mavericks in his last road game.
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Nevertheless, Barrett has the talent to bounce back, and the teenager will benefit from the Knicks' favorable schedule over the next six days.
#3 Eric Paschall - Golden State Warriors
Injuries to Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, and D'Angelo Russell have been detrimental to the Warriors' season, and Steve Kerr's team is already out of the playoff race. However, the injuries have provided young members of the roster with precious minutes, and Eric Paschall continues to seize his opportunity.
Paschall has battled with a hip injury over the past week, missing Golden State's game against the Dallas Mavericks, although the 23-year-old was still among the Warriors' best performers. Through 10 appearances in his rookie season, Paschall is averaging 15.6 points and 4.4 rebounds per game - and he is currently shooting over 52 percent from the field. While Paschall remains among the Rookie of the Year frontrunners, it will be interesting to see if he can keep his numbers up following the return of the ball-dominant Draymond Green.