NBA 2019-20: Rookie of the Year Power Rankings Week 9

#2 Kendrick Nunn - Miami Heat

Kendrick Nunn

After consistently producing solid performances over the first two months of the season, Kendrick Nunn's breakout game came last week against the Atlanta Hawks.

The Miami Heat rookie recorded a career-high 36 points, finishing 14-of-26 from the field. Nunn also contributed six rebounds, four assists and one steal during his 42 minutes on court, and his defense was also widely praised during subsequent games against the Lakers, Mavericks and Grizzlies.

Through 27 appearances, Nunn is now averaging 16.1 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. The undrafted rookie is also contributing to a contending Miami team, which is sure to help elevate his status in the Rookie of the Year sweepstakes.

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#1 Ja Morant - Memphis Grizzlies

Ja Morant

Ja Morant missed much of Week 7 due to back spasms. However, the 20-year-old remains the front-runner for the Rookie of the Year title after successfully overcoming the injury over the past seven days.

Against the Phoenix Suns, Morant was restricted to just nine shots as he recorded 13 points. After missing Memphis' home game against Milwaukee, Morant dropped 18 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists on the Wizards.

On Monday night Morant put in his best performance since returning, as he recorded 20 points against Miami while missing just five of his 14 attempts from the field. Morant also recorded 10 assists to finish with a fourth double-double of the season.

Through 21 appearances, the point guard is averaging 18.8 points, 3.1 rebounds and 6.5 assists per game.