OKC Thunder: Giddey stays in top 5 of TI’s week 3 rookie ladder

Honorable mentions trio:

This following triad is comprised of one rookie on the precipice of taking the leap onto the ladder and two others not likely to land in the top-five but who offer compelling games that deserve recognition.

Cade Cunningham:

The 2021 top draft pick is easing into play after missing the first four games (and five of the first six) due to an ankle sprain.

It’s conceivable Cunningham was pressing in his initial games feeling the pressure of playing catch up to his cohorts who got out to quick starts.

While he won’t make our top five this week he’s inching closer having registered his first double-double  (vs. 76ers). His point tallies are increasing as he gains a comfort level with 18 and 17 points in his last two games — notably occurring on a back-to-back set.

The efficiency still lacks a lot to be desired, however, there are hints of the player who was the consensus top pick in all the mock drafts seeping through. For example, there is a discernable difference in the flow of the Pistons offense with Cunningham on the floor.

Three of his four matches featured tough Eastern opponents  – the Bucks, 76ers, and Nets. So, the fact he’s improving with each game despite tough matchups offers insight into what is coming.

With that in mind the Pistons who’ve been off since Friday will embark on a three-game road trip Wednesday in Houston followed by a Friday/Saturday back-to-back with Cleveland and Toronto. That will bring him face to face with the three rookies selected right after him.

That will offer fans a mano-a-mano comparison of Cunningham versus Green, Mobley, and Barnes. And perhaps prove whether these individuals gain extra motivation from facing each other. My guess is Cunningham finds himself on Intentions top-five next week.