NBA 2019-20: Rookie of the Year Power Rankings Week 5

#4 Kendrick Nunn - Miami Heat

Kendrick Nunn enjoyed a bounce-back week with the Heat after his performances had dipped

Like several other rookies around the league, Kendrick Nunn had started to fade following an impressive start to the season. However, the 24-year-old enjoyed his best week in the NBA as Miami recorded a 3-0 record. Nunn managed at least 20 points against the Pistons, Cavaliers, and Bulls, and his 23 points, 5 rebounds, and 8 assists performance against the Cavs was his best so far.

Through 12 games, Nunn is now averaging 17.8 points, 3.2 assists, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.6 steals - and the undrafted guard is already a guaranteed starter under Erik Spoelstra. The Heat were believed to be targeting Chris Paul, although Nunn's performances are making a case for the Miami front office to stick with the current roster.

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#3 RJ Barrett - New York Knicks

RJ Barrett's performances have improved over the past week

RJ Barrett's performances had cooled down since the first two weeks of the season, although the Duke product has rediscovered his stride over the past week. Against the Chicago Bulls, Barrett recorded 21 points, 6 rebounds, 9 assists, and 2 steals in what was arguably his best all-around performance of the season so far. He also dropped 22 points on the Charlotte Hornets while connecting with 50% of his attempts from the field.

Barrett's 3-point shooting has shown signs of improvement following a shaky start, and the 19-year-old has also benefited from New York's decision to reduce his minutes to a much more manageable 30 per night. Through 14 games, he is now averaging a respectable 15.8 points 5.6 rebounds, and 3.6 assists - and he could eventually emerge as a huge threat to the other rookies attempting to be named ROTY.