NBA rookie of the year 2021: January Power Rankings

#3 James Wiseman

Golden State Warriors starting center James Wiseman

The Golden State Warriors will feel they have struck gold with their No. 2 overall pick James Wiseman. Coming out of college, Wiseman had only played 3 games in Memphis. Therefore, although there was widespread excitement around his talent, there were skeptics who believed he didn't have the experience to make it, especially at such a high-profile franchise.

Wiseman, however, has hit the ground running in California. Coach Steve Kerr wanted a traditional center to boost the Warriors size in the paint and, at seven feet tall, the 19-year-old has provided that. In his 15 starts, Wiseman is averaging 11.6 points and 6 rebounds. While the latter stat is expected to improve with time and maturity, Wiseman is already learning from the Warriors' veteran stars, Steph Curry and Draymond Green, who see him as the future of the franchise.

“He’s got the full package that you need as a young player to be a great player in this league. He’s got an amazing future.”Steve Kerr on James Wiseman pic.twitter.com/vgVb871HG5

— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) January 22, 2021

#4 Cole Anthony

Orlando Magic rookie star Cole Anthony

Another rookie who fell down the draft order was Cole Anthony, though with the patience shown by the young point guard and the opportunities afforded to him by the Orlando Magic, Anthony has settled into life as an NBA starter.

Now that he has hit his first buzzer beater for the franchise in a win over the Timberwolves, it could be the impetus to push the 20-year-old on in Rookie of the Year contention. In 15 appearances, including seven starts, Anthony is averaging 10.3 points and 4.5 rebounds.

His value to the Magic will become even clearer in time, though. As a known scorer in college who could shoot from anywhere, Anthony has this week shot 8-for-19 from beyond the 3-point line.

COLE ANTHONY FOR THE WIN 🚨🚨 pic.twitter.com/yDOmWk6t6e

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) January 21, 2021

#5 Patrick Williams

Chicago Bulls Williams vs Atlanta Hawks

Though many classed the Chicago Bulls selection of Patrick Williams as a stretch, the power forward has started 13 games and is averaging 10.3 points and 3.8 rebounds.

While his numbers are not yet of the caliber his draft classmates above him in the NBA Power Rankings are showing, Williams will prove a pivotal piece for the Bulls going forward. He has an 55% effective field goal percentage and shoots at 87% from the line. On defense, Williams has faced up to LeBron James and Kawhi Leonard which is vital learning for any rookie in the game.