Draft Digest Rookies of the Week: Jaden Hardy Emerges, Paolo Banchero Continues Success

Who were the most impressive rookies across the NBA over the past week?

Each week, the Draft Digest team picks an NBA rookie from each conference as the best player of the week.

Some rookies made an immediate impact when joining the NBA, while others have taken more time to get comfortable or earn the minutes. In either situation, we’re at a point in the season in which this class appears extremely strong.

With both top-level talent and depth, the 2022 NBA Draft has produced many impactful rookies. It’s going to be competitive the rest of the way to earn an NBA All-Rookie nod.

Who brought home the hardware this week?

Eastern Conference 

Paolo Banchero (Orlando Magic)

Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Stats Since Last Week: 3 GP | 20.7 PPG| 8.0 RPG | 4.0 APG | 36.3% 3PT

Although several other rookies around the league are starting to really emerge, Banchero is still the clear favorite for NBA Rookie of the Year. Despite having some poor shooting stretches this season, the fact that he’s a primary piece already on an NBA team is special.

A mismatch on the offensive end, Banchero is too quick for bigger defenders but too strong for smaller defenders. It’s tough to slow down a guy of his caliber, even if he is a rookie. His 75 PSP from Cerebro Sports this season goes to show just how unique he is as a rookie scorer.

In a win over the Miami Heat this week, Banchero nearly notched a triple-double with 17 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists. The top pick in the 2022 NBA Draft has been well worth it.

Western Conference 

Jaden Hardy (Dallas Mavericks)

Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports

Stats Since Last Week: 3 GP | 24.0 PPG| 5.3 RPG | 3.3 APG | 37.9% 3PT

With both Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving missing time this week, Hardy got called up to be a starter. He’s made the most of this opportunity, being a primary scorer for Dallas over the past three games. In fact, he became the first Maverick in history to score at least 20 points in each of his first two NBA starts.

In a game against Memphis, Hardy’s scoring upside was on full display as he produced 16 points in the first quarter, which is the most by any rookie in any first quarter this season.

For Hardy, it’s all about getting the opportunity. If this recent stretch gives Dallas the confidence to start playing him even when the team is at full health, he could be a real contributor. It will come down to his shooting efficiency and how he’s able to impact winning outside of scoring.

The 3-point shot has been key during this week, as Hardy has knocked down nearly 40% on high volume at 9.7 attempts per game.

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