NBA 2019-20: Top 5 sophomores in the league right now

#4 Devonte' Graham - Charlotte Hornets

Following a quiet rookie season, Devonte' Graham has been among the breakout stars of the season so far

After spending four years at the University of Kansas, Devonte' Graham was taken as an early second-round pick in the 2018 NBA draft. However, due to the excellent form of Kemba Walker, Graham managed just 14.7 minutes over 46 appearances during his rookie season, averaging 4.7 points and 2.6 assists.

Nevertheless, Graham has taken full advantage of Walker's departure and is averaging 18.0 points and 7.3 assists in 31.6 minutes per game. The 24-year-old has outshone Walker's expensive replacement in Terry Rozier, and if he can keep up his stunning start to the season, Graham could eventually replace the former Celtics man in the Hornets' starting lineup.

---

#3 Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - Oklahoma City Thunder

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has replaced Russell Westbrook in the OKC backcourt

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander enjoyed an excellent rookie year with the Los Angeles Clippers, and the organization was well aware of what a talent they had on their hands following his breakout performances against the Golden State Warriors in the 2019 playoffs. However, the Clippers had no chance but to include Gilgeous-Alexander in the blockbuster trade for Paul George, and the 21-year-old has continued to shine in Oklahoma City.

The Thunder have wasted no time in giving Gilgeous-Alexander the keys to the franchise following Russell Westbrook's departure, and the guard is currently averaging an impressive 20.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. His three-point shooting has also increased to 41 percent, and his influence has been promising enough to suggest that Sam Presti may have made the right decision to trade Paul George. Ultimately, if Gilgeous-Alexander continues on his current track, he looks destined for stardom, although the Thunder needs to put the right tools around him.