Alexey Shved rockets up this week's rankings after going off for 17, 16 and 17 points in the Timberwolves last three games, two of which were wins.
Fresh off a bronze medal performance at the Olympics, Shved signed in Minnesota to provide depth to the Timberwolves backcourt.
He has done so much more than that.
So far, Shved has been one of Minnesota's most reliable players and he is a big reason why the Timberwolves were able to keep their heads above water without both Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio to start the season.
Shved can play both positions in the backcourt and does a little bit of everything for Minnesota. He is an effective dribble penetrator, a good passer and an effective finisher inside and from mid-range.
He has also found his stroke from deep lately, making him that much more dangerous.
The more I see of Shved, the more excited I am to see what the Timberwolves can do when Rubio returns. With Rubio's creativity and flair, he and Shved could very well form one of the most exciting backcourts in the entire NBA.
Also climbing in this week's rankings are Kyle Singler, Dion Waiters and Jeff Taylor who makes his first appearance in the top-10.
Falling this week are Jonas Valanciunas, Harrison Barnes, Anthony Davis and Andre Drummond who topples right out of the top-10.
The Top 10
1. PG Damian Lillard - Portland Trail Blazers (-)
2. SF Michael Kidd-Gilchrist - Charlotte Bobcats (-)
3. G Alexey Shved - Minnesota Timberwolves (+5)
4. SG Kyle Singler- Detroit Pistons (+1)
5. SG Dion Waiters - Cleveland Cavaliers (+2)
6. C Jonas Valanciunas - Toronto Raptors (-2)
7. SF Harrison Barnes - Golden State Warriors (-1)
8. PF Anthony Davis - Detroit Pistons (up one spot)
9. PG Brian Roberts - New Orleans Hornets (-)
10. G/FJeff Taylor - Charlotte Bobcats (NR)
