The Orlando Magic’s Paolo Banchero and Sacramento Kings’ Keegan Murray were rewarded with the Kia Rookies of the Month title for the month of December. Banchero, who was the first overall selection in the draft, has kept up his high level of performance during his first season in the league, with an average of 19.1 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in December. The 6-foot-10 forward is currently averaging 20.9 points (the most among rookies), 6.7 rebounds (3rd) and 3.9 assists (2nd).
Paolo Banchero has kept his place at the top of the NBA Rookie of the Year rankings since the summer draft, staying number one. He has been the most productive player in the class and has the most potential for future success. That said, his performance declined in December, just as some of the other rookies began to show their best game. This isn’t enough to dethrone Banchero, but the difference between him and the other players is not as great as it once was however I’m sure we are going to see Banchero widen that gap with these last games of 2023. He will not be dethroned! Congrat Banchero!
19.1 PTS
6.5 REB
4.1 AST
10 games with 20+ points
that’s our rook ???? pic.twitter.com/sUniLnRwS7
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) January 3, 2023
