Thomas Robinson, middle, vies with Chuck Hayes (42) and Brooklyn's Kris Humphries for a rebound.
Poll
Which rookie big man will have the best pro career?
Your vote has been counted, thank you for voting.
When the Kings selected Thomas Robinson with the No. 5 pick in June, the Kansas power forward was thought to be one of the most pro-ready players in the draft, someone who could contribute immediately.
That certainly hasn't been the case.
As The Bee's Jason Jones reported Monday, the Kings never planned to rush Robinson into a starting role. But shouldn't the 6-foot-10 Robinson be putting up bigger numbers than 15.8 minutes, 4.6 points and 3.9 rebounds (entering Monday's game) for a mediocre team?
The two players picked just after Robinson – Trail Blazers point guard Damian Lillard and Warriors small forward Harrison Barnes – are off to solid starts.
Lillard, averaging 18.9 points and 6.5 assists, is the early consensus for Rookie of the Year, though partly because top pick Anthony Davis has played just six games for the Hornets because of injuries.
Barnes, averaging 9.8 points and 4.8 rebounds, has helped lead the Warriors to a surprising 14-7 start after so many awful seasons.
The other players picked ahead of Robinson – Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (27.4 minutes and 10.7 points for the Bobcats), Bradley Beal (27.9 and 11.7 for the Wizards) and Dion Waiters (32.0 and 15.2 for the Cavaliers) – all have made solid contributions to their teams.
So did the Kings make the right pick?
Only time will tell.
What to watch
NBA, Los Angeles Clippers at Chicago, 6:30 p.m., ESPN: The Clippers are in first place in the Pacific Division – and the best NBA team in L.A.
Today's poll
Which rookie big man will have the best pro career?
• Anthony Davis
• Andre Drummond
• Thomas Robinson
• Jonas Valanciunas
Vote above or leave your comments in the comments field; or go to www.sacbee.com/sports
Monday's poll results
Where will the Kings finish in the Pacific Division?
• First: 8%
• Second: 3%
• Third: 11%
• Fourth: 22%
• Last: 56%
Total votes: 331
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