NBA Rookie Ladder: Ben Simmons and an unlikely Laker steal the headlines

LAS VEGAS, NV - OCTOBER 08: (L-R) Kyle Kuzma (L)
LAS VEGAS, NV - OCTOBER 08: (L-R) Kyle Kuzma (L) /
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8. Mike James, Phoenix Suns

Stats: 11.4 points, 4.4 assists

Mike James took “the road less traveled” to get into the NBA. He’s a 27-year-old rookie who has spent the last three years playing overseas. But boy, has he looked good. His play is probably one of the main reasons the Suns seemed so willing to get rid of Eric Bledsoe.

James is averaging 11.4 points and 4.4 assists while shooting 37 percent from 3-point land. Oh yeah, and he’s only playing 23.9 minutes per game.

Mike James has easily (unfortunately) outplayed his fellow rookie and teammate Josh Jackson who was had high expectations heading into this season. He might not have been a lottery pick or a sexy name, but James is the best rookie on the Suns for now.