Atlanta Hawks: Underrated Rookie Kevin Huerter Off to Hot Start

Statistical Profile vs. Rookies

Though Huerter’s numbers are a bit clouded due to the messy nature of early-season statistics, he compares favorably to some of the best rookies in the league – including his teammate Trae Young, who continues to put up excellent numbers (though his performances have been up-and-down of late).

Among fellow rookies, Huerter’s plus/minus numbers (a +3.3 per game) are among the best of his peers, behind only Donte DiVincenzo, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Bruce Brown (who has played 40 fewer minutes than Huerter).

Again, Huerter’s shooting is perhaps his most notable trait when compared to his peers. Huerter is second among all rookies in three-point percentage with a whopping 47.4 percent, hitting 9 of his 19 triples. That rate is behind only #2 overall pick Marvin Bagley III – though don’t get too excited as Bagley has only attempted 9 three-pointers all season. Again, small sample size caveats apply for all these numbers.

For his size (6-foot-7, 190 pounds), Huerter is also a gifted rebounder. His total rebounds per game (3.6) and defensive rebounds per game (2.9) rank as tied for 12th and 11th among all rookies this season. For someone who is so slight of frame, Huerter can really outjump guys and sky for rebounds unexpectedly.

Lastly, Huerter has been supremely efficient in his scoring. Among qualified rookies, Huerter’s 60.6 true shooting percentage (which aggregates field goal, three-point and free throw percentage) is third – behind only lottery picks DeAndre Ayton (64.0%) and Miles Bridges (63.7%).