NBA Rookie Watch: A Look at Rookies Who Are Still Contributing in the Playoffs

The annual spectacle that's known as the NBA draft has produced almost all of the players that you've come to love, hate and watch in awe. Most have worked their way from the bottom up, while others have come into a leading role and thrived from the get-go.

Others, however, get drafted low and simply cannot carve out a role with their championship-contending team until the season is fully underway. You know, the lucky ones.

This year was no different, as plenty of rookie ballers were vying for a spot in the 2012 NBA playoffs. Some succeeded in achieving their goals, while others fell short. Here's to those who are living out their dreams and competing for an NBA title.

Honorable Mention: Kenneth Faried, Denver Nuggets

Draft Position: First Round, Pick 22

When you're the most consistent player on the floor who doesn't go by the name of "Kobe Bryant," there's something to be said about your talent and production as an NBA star.

When you consider that it's rookie Kenneth Faried who earned that distinction, putting your foot in your mouth as you defy traditional values for greatness becomes the one-and-only option.

Welcome to the world of Kenneth Faried...

Postseason Averages: 27.4 MPG—10.4 PPG—10.0 RPG—1.1 BPG—0.7 SPG

Lavoy Allen, Philadelphia 76ers

Draft Position: Second Round, Pick 50

Lavoy Allen was a name overlooked by many on draft day—49 times to be exact. As we hit the Western Conference Semi-Finals, there doesn't seem to be many people left who are doubting his value.

After a solid first round against the tough interior of the Chicago Bulls, Allen opened up the Western Conference Semi-Finals with 12 points, six rebounds, two assists, a block and a steal.

Should he continue to play at such a level, he might begin to receive the recognition of another rookie power forward to works his tail off on a play-by-play basis: Kenneth Faried.

Let's just hope he's ready for what Kevin Garnett has in store for him.

Postseason Averages: 16.5 MPG—6.0 PPG—4.7 RPG—0.8 BPG—0.7 SPG

Norris Cole, Miami Heat

Draft Position: First Round, Pick 28

He hasn't done much, but that's only because he hasn't seen much playing time. In the games Cole has played, however, he's been solid defensively and reliable in the sense that he hasn't forced shots.

Unfortunately, he hasn't seen any playing time since Game 3 against the New York Knicks.

Postseason Averages: 6.0 MPG—1.3 PPG—0.3 SPG—50% FG

Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio Spurs

Drafted: First Round, Pick 15 (Traded via Indiana Pacers)

Kawhi Leonard has been excellent this postseason. The rookie out of San Diego State has played responsible offense, smothering perimeter defense and hit some big shots along the way.

All that's left is continuing that level of play into the Western Conference Semi-Finals and moving closer to his first NBA Championship.

Against the Los Angeles Clippers, Leonard's perimeter defense and ability to attack the basket will be key as the Spurs take on one of the most versatile teams in the NBA.

Leonard will likely find himself matched up against playoff veteran Kenyon Martin, but he may also go up against both Nick Young and Blake Griffin.

A lot to handle, but to this point, Leonard seems more than capable of handling his duties.

Postseason Averages: 20.0 MPG—7.0 PPG—3.3 RPG—1.0 SPG—45.5% FG—40% 3PT

Darius Morris, Los Angeles Lakers

Draft Position: Round 2, Pick 41

Darius Morris hasn't done much in terms of overall averages, but in the Lakers' Game 6 loss at Denver, Morris showed poise and maturity under pressure. He came up with five points and two assists, running the offense for a five-minute period that displayed the former Michigan Wolverine's potential.

While meaningless to some, Morris' performance could speak volumes for his future.

Player Traits: 2.5 MPG—2.5 PPG—1.0 APG—100% FG

Greg Stiemsma, Boston Celtics

Draft Position: Undrafted

Greg Stiemsma has been his usual shots, presenting the Celtics with an interior presence and blocking a ridiculous amount of shots in a ridiculously small amount of playing time. While he won't make any All-Rookie teams, he's certainly been one of the most consistent first-year players.

Expect the shot blocking to continue and the minutes to elevate. His budding mid-range game will be a nice addition, as well.

Season Averages: 9.7 MPG—0.6 PPG—3.6 RPG—1.0 BPG