While NBA championships are often won by superstars, with Finals MVPs typically being All-Stars, the supporting cast is crucial. Looking ahead to the playoffs, let`s consider players who, while not the primary stars, could significantly influence their teams` first-round series outcomes. These are players who aren`t their team`s top option but have the potential to make or break their team`s playoff run with impactful performances.
Cleveland Cavaliers: Ty Jerome
Ty Jerome stands out for exceeding expected performance metrics more than any other player with significant shot attempts this season. This metric, which considers shot quality factors, places him ahead of even Kevin Durant and Nikola Jokic in terms of outperforming expectations.
Despite a limited role last season, Jerome has become a key bench contributor for Cleveland, shooting exceptionally well from three-point range and maintaining the offense when stars like Donovan Mitchell or Darius Garland are out. However, questions remain about his playoff readiness. Can he maintain his shooting form and defensive effectiveness against targeted play in the playoffs, and will he get enough playing time with increased minutes for Mitchell and Garland?
Boston Celtics: Jrue Holiday
Jrue Holiday`s shooting slump earlier in the season was interrupted by an injury, but upon his return, he significantly improved his three-point shooting percentage. This is vital for the Celtics because opponents often prioritize defending his star teammates, leaving Holiday open. He needs to capitalize on these opportunities, similar to his strong three-point shooting performance during last year`s championship run. His defensive partnership with Derrick White is already valuable, but consistent offense from Holiday will elevate the Celtics further.
New York Knicks: Mitchell Robinson
Mitchell Robinson`s return from ankle surgery has been impactful. Despite limited minutes upon his return, he has been highly productive in rebounding, blocks, and steals. His offensive rebounding is particularly notable, ranking among the league`s best. Robinson offers a different dynamic for the Knicks, who heavily rely on their starting lineup. If their primary strategies falter, Robinson`s rebounding and interior presence could be the Plan B needed to challenge top teams like the Celtics.
Indiana Pacers: Aaron Nesmith
The Pacers` early-season struggles may have been linked to the absence of key perimeter players like Aaron Nesmith. Upon his return in mid-January, alongside Andrew Nembhard, the Pacers` performance dramatically improved, becoming one of the league`s top teams. Nesmith contributes significantly on both offense and defense, with strong three-point shooting and the ability to guard top opposing wings. His on/off court impact is substantial, highlighting his importance to Indiana`s success.
Milwaukee Bucks: Kyle Kuzma
The Bucks` acquisition of Kyle Kuzma, replacing Khris Middleton, was a gamble hoping for improved performance in a competitive environment. However, Kuzma`s performance metrics haven`t drastically changed in Milwaukee, remaining statistically poor. Despite potentially being the second option offensively due to Damian Lillard`s injury concerns, Kuzma needs to quickly improve his impact for the Bucks.
Detroit Pistons: Tobias Harris
Tobias Harris, formerly criticized in Philadelphia, now demonstrates significant value for the Pistons. His on/off court impact is the highest on the team, exceeding even Cade Cunningham and Malik Beasley. While his individual stats may not be eye-catching, his all-around contributions are crucial for a Pistons team lacking in two-way wing players. His playoff experience is also a valuable asset for Detroit`s younger players entering the playoffs.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Aaron Wiggins
For the Thunder, a key question is secondary scoring behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. While Jalen Williams is vital, Aaron Wiggins could be a crucial X-factor. Since February, Wiggins has increased his scoring and three-point shooting, becoming a significant offensive contributor. While Coach Daigneault has defensive specialists, Wiggins` scoring could be essential when Gilgeous-Alexander rests or faces heavy defensive pressure, potentially influencing the Thunder`s playoff aspirations.
Houston Rockets: Steven Adams
Steven Adams` scoring isn`t his primary impact, but his presence, especially in two-big lineups with Alperen Sengun, transforms games physically. The Rockets` offensive rebounding rate with this duo is exceptionally high. While opponents might exploit potential spacing issues in the playoffs, the Adams-Sengun pairing has been highly effective, offering a unique and potentially potent strategy for the Rockets in the postseason.
Los Angeles Lakers: Rui Hachimura
While Austin Reaves is a prominent third option for the Lakers, Rui Hachimura`s role is also critical, especially in a center-light rotation. Hachimura has played significant minutes at center this season, providing floor spacing with his three-point shooting and crucial size and rebounding. Lakers` lineups using Hachimura or James at center have shown strong offensive numbers, making Hachimura`s versatility vital in the playoffs.
Denver Nuggets: Russell Westbrook
Russell Westbrook is known for his volatile performances, and this season has been no different. After joining Denver, he has had moments of strong play, but also costly mistakes. His playoff impact may depend on his minutes alongside Nikola Jokic, where he is more efficient. Without Jokic, his efficiency drops significantly. Coach Adelman`s trust in Westbrook in high-pressure playoff situations, especially after a recent coaching change, remains a key question.
LA Clippers: Ivica Zubac
Ivica Zubac has emerged as a highly valuable player this season, ranking surprisingly high in value metrics alongside MVP candidates. Despite playing with stars like Leonard, Harden, and Powell, Zubac`s consistent performance on both ends of the court has been crucial. His value is further amplified in the playoffs, particularly in a first-round matchup where he will be tasked with guarding Nikola Jokic.
Minnesota Timberwolves: Julius Randle
Julius Randle faces pressure to improve his playoff track record, marked by poor shooting and high turnovers. His overall impact on the Timberwolves has also been questioned, with a negative on/off court differential. Despite Minnesota`s positive trajectory, Randle needs to elevate his performance for the Timberwolves to replicate or surpass their previous conference finals appearance.
Golden State Warriors: Brandin Podziemski
Brandin Podziemski rebounded strongly after a slump, particularly after Jimmy Butler III joined the Warriors. His improved three-point shooting makes him a better fit alongside Butler and Draymond Green, providing necessary spacing. Podziemski, along with Moses Moody, is crucial for drawing defenses and supporting Stephen Curry. Lineups featuring Podziemski have shown strong net ratings, indicating his importance to the Warriors` playoff hopes as their `two timelines` approach potentially comes to fruition.
