The 10 Candidates for NBA Rookie of the Year...So Far

I know. Brandon Jennings had 55 points in a game this year.

But before you say the rookie of the year race is over, take some time to consider a few other options.

While Jennings grabbed headlines and turned heads early, I am not totally convinced he has been the best rookie thus far.

Here's a list of my Top 10. Enjoy.

No. 10 Taj Gibson

Leading all NBA rookies in rebounding, Gibson has established himself as a long shot contender at the award. Playing 23 minutes per game, has been a positives on the reeling Bulls. His athleticism and upside make him an impact rookie.

No. 9 Ty Lawson

After a quick start, Lawson is still finding his role on a team with talent at every position. Coming off the bench to give Chauncey Billups a break, Lawson is currently averaging eight ppg, three apg, and shooting 50% from the floor. As the season progresses and Lawson finds his place in the Nuggets' lineup expect Lawson improve.

No. 8 Jonas Jerebko

Coming from near obscurity, Jerebko has found a place in the Pistons' rotation and has played an important part in Detroit's success thus far. With the support of his coaching staff, Jerebko is averaging eight points and almost six rebounds a game. His well rounded game make him a valuable player as the Pistons' season moves forward.

No. 7 James Harden

The third pick in last June's draft is beginning to live up the hype after scoring 26 points on December 7th. His upside and athletic ability have continued to set him apart and his role on the young and talented Thunder is still developing.

After showcasing his passing as well as his shooting ability, Harden has demonstrated his worth early the season. Expect big things from Harden as he becomes more comfortable in the NBA setting.

No. 6 Stephen Curry

Though he has been an important figure on a Warriors team experiencing a tumultuous season, Curry has endured some growing pains. After adjusting to the NBA style however, Curry has played well. He is averaging over 11 points a games and leading all rookies in steals with nearly two spg. As he becomes more confident, look for Curry to flourish and display his rare shooting ability.

No. 5 Omri Casspi

Along with fellow rookie Tyreke Evans, Casspi has galvanized a Kings squad that desperately needed young talent. Both taken in the first round, Casspi and Evans constitute one of the best drafts by the Kings in recent memory. A player with a diverse and multifaceted game, Casspi is averaging double figures and shooting 53% from the field.

No. 4 Jonny Flynn

After hitting the game winning shot against the Jazz and Deron Williams, Flynn's stock skyrocketed. One of the fastest players in the college game, Flynn has been flying past some of the league's best guards all season.

Although playing like a rookie and committing a fair amount of turnovers, Flynn has been a bright spot for the Timberwolves 14 points in just under 30 minutes a game.

No. 3 Wesley Matthews

Coming out of Marquette, this undrafted free agent has impressed of late. Scoring 19 points against the Lakers while guarded by Ron Artest, Matthews is rising in the minds of many coaches and players in the NBA. His height (6'5") and athletic ability make him a great compliment to Deron Williams and a versatile player.

No. 2 Brandon Jennings

55 points.

After taking a minute to think about that, Jennings has been a tremendous player from day one. He can do it all and was exactly the type of player the Bucks needed to compliment their roster.

Playing nearly the whole game, Jennings is averaging over 21 points per game. His stock has been rising throughout the season and he immediately got everyone's attention with the 55 point performance. Jennings will be in the top two of the ROY voting when the season comes to a close.

No. 1 Tyreke Evans

Evans has been simply spectacular in his rookie season for the Kings. To put his season in perspective so far, Evans is averaging 20 points per game to go along with five rebounds and five steals per game.

The only players in NBA history to finish their rookie years with those numbers are Oscar Roberston, MJ, and Lebron. Yeah, he's been that good.