Heading into 2012-13 the Western Conference's clear-cut rookie to watch was Anthony Davis of the New Orleans Hornets. Is that still true? A look at the West's best freshmen thus far.

1. Damian Lillard, PG, Trail Blazers
The only first-year who has consistently played like a star, Lillard is obviously the early Rookie of the Year favorite.

2. Anthony Davis, PF/C, Hornets
Early injury problems have kept the highly-touted Davis from truly busting through but he shows regular flashes of dominance.

3. Alexey Shved, PG/SG, Timberwolves
Few had Shved on the radar before this season but the gifted Russian playmaker has been a key contributor for new-look Minny.

4. Harrison Barnes, SF, Warriors
Inconsistency has caught up with the athletic Barnes of late but he's still starting for Golden State and often looks stellar.

5. Austin Rivers, SG, Hornets
His shooting percentages are dismal and Eric Gordon's return looms, but Rivers nonetheless has his moments for New Orleans.

Honorable Mentions: Jae Crowder, SF, Mavericks; Draymond Green, SF, Warriors; Brian Roberts, PG, Hornets; Thomas Robinson, PF, Kings; Nando De Colo, SG/PG, Spurs.