Last season’s rookie impressions:
Obviously the Rookie of the Year Ben Simmons ranks among the elite (although a summer of figuring out his shot and range wouldn’t hurt). Jayson Tatum stepped up in Boston and Celtics’ fans will forever be asking why Brad Stevens elected to go away from Tatum late in game 7 when he proved to be unstoppable for the Cavaliers.
Several other rookies made impressions and in some cases surprisingly so. Chicago Bulls Lauri Markkanen proved to be a red hot sniper from deep. Raptors OG Anunoby returned in time to start the season and became Toronto’s top defender. Lakers Kyle Kuzma showcased his offensive prowess and was possibly the biggest surprise of the draft.
The Nets Jarrett Allen improved as the season went along and has the best hair in the NBA. And, the Heat’s Bam Adebayo gives reason to wonder how long Miami will keep Hassan Whiteside in the fold. Rumors are Pat Riley is shopping the big man and Bam’s presence has to be a main reason why.
Question marks surround Markelle Fultz shoulder and whether Lonzo Ball’s game will ever be a bigger story than his father’s musings. Like Fultz, health was a factor for some rookies like Harry Giles (missed entire season) and Jonathan Isaac who missed significant portions of the season.
Ferguson minutes upgraded post Roberson injury:
As for the OKC Thunder rookie Terrance Ferguson he did most of his damage after an untimely injury to a core contributor.
Provided by Basketball-Reference.com: View Original Table
Generated 8/21/2018.
Although TFerg was active for 61 games with the varsity squad, most of his appearances came once Andre Roberson went out injured. Prior to the Roberson injury in the 34 games TFerg was a DNP in 15 and played less than five minutes in another 12.
After the Roberson injury in the 48 remaining games Ferguson was inactive for one, was a DNP in five and played less than five minutes in three games. Clearly the Roberson injury contributed to his playing time