Not every player makes headlines, but that doesn’t mean they’re not making waves. These NBA stars have consistently performed impressive, yet their efforts tend to fly under the radar. It’s time to give them their due. Here are 15 NBA players who are way more important to their teams than they often get credit for.
Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks)
When the Knicks needed a spark, Brunson stepped up, averaging 24 points and six assists per game last season. With sharp decision-making and a fearless attitude in the clutch, he’s been the engine behind their surprising wins.
Mikal Bridges (Brooklyn Nets)
Watch Bridges in action, and you’ll see a player who does a bit of everything. Since joining Brooklyn, he’s become their go-to guy in crunch time, often stepping up when it matters most. While his stats are impressive, his influence goes beyond the numbers.
Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers)
Pacers fans know they’ve got a gem in Haliburton, who led the team with 10.4 assists per game. The young guard mixes smooth shooting with a court vision that keeps defenses guessing. Plus, his 1.6 steals per game show he’s a force on defense.
Dejounte Murray (Atlanta Hawks)
There’s no denying the impact Murray has on both ends. Putting up 20.5 points, 6.1 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, he’s a force all over the court. A standout defender, he racks up points like a magician pulling rabbits out of hats. How is this guy not getting more hype?
Derrick White (Boston Celtics)
White quietly puts in work day after day, contributing key points and strong defense. He makes smart plays and nails important shots when the pressure is on. While other names get the hype, White proves he’s one of the most reliable players in Boston’s lineup.
Desmond Bane (Memphis Grizzlies)
Everyone knows Ja Morant, but Bane is quietly becoming just as important to Memphis. Posting 21.5 points per game with 43% three-point shooting, he’s the guy you don’t see coming until it’s too late. His consistent play deserves way more attention.
Anfernee Simons (Portland Trail Blazers)
Portland may have found their next big thing in Simons, who reached his career-high with 21.1 points and 4.1 assists. Recognized for his deep threes and thrilling drives to the hoop, he’s more than a placeholder for Dame. Simons is a star in the making.
Jaren Jackson Jr. (Memphis Grizzlies)
At 24, he’s a defensive anchor for Memphis. Jackson Jr. is a shot-blocking machine, leading the league with 3.0 blocks per game while also stretching the floor with his three-point strike. Despite standout performances, he often slips under the radar.
Jonas Valančiūnas (New Orleans Pelicans)
He gets things done the old-school way—battling for rebounds and averaging 14.1 points and 10.2 boards per game. His effort is relentless on both ends of the court, yet he often flies under the radar. This player definitely deserves a whole lot more attention.
Kevin Huerter (Sacramento Kings)
Beyond his smooth jump shot, Huerter adds an all-around game to Sacramento. Spacing the floor, he plays tight defense and makes clutch plays when needed. His contributions are key to the Kings’ strategy, yet his name doesn’t often come up in conversations about their success.
Dorian Finney-Smith (Dallas Mavericks)
Finney-Smith brings heart and hustle, playing tough defense and hitting 39% of his three-pointers. He takes on the hardest assignments, leaves it all on the floor, and contributes 9.5 points per game. The role he had in Dallas’s success can’t be underestimated.
Josh Giddey (Oklahoma City Thunder)
He sees the game differently—nearly putting up a triple-double every night. The young guard shows maturity beyond his years, reading plays like a veteran and finding teammates with pinpoint passes. This shows the league should pay closer attention.
Wendell Carter Jr. (Orlando Magic)
Carter Jr. does the dirty work and doesn’t ask for the spotlight. With his 15.2 points and 8.7 rebounds per game, he’s a critical piece for Orlando. It’s easy to overlook a player like him, but his impact is felt on every possession.
Devin Vassell (San Antonio Spurs)
Averaging 18.5 points per game and showcasing solid defense, Vassell proves he’s far more than just a role player. His quick release, ability to perform under pressure, and growing leadership make him invaluable to the Spurs. He’s steadily making a case for more recognition.
De’Anthony Melton (Philadelphia 76ers)
Melton is the kind of player every team needs—tough, gritty, and never backing down. With an average of 10.1 points and 1.6 steals per game, his energy is contagious. The Sixers know his value; now it’s time for everyone else to see it.
15 Underrated NBA Players Who Are Key to Their Team’s Success