NBA 2017-18: 5 most underrated playersÂ
While the NBA fans are enamored with the superstar players in the league today, there are many solid contributors who go under the radar. The reason could be either their style of play, playing in a smaller market or being out shined thanks to a much more popular teammate.
All the players on this list are good to great defenders, a trait which fans seem to value lesser and lesser as the seasons go by. A criterion for this list is that none of the players have made all-star teams, which have been based on fan voting.
So, here we go with our top 5:
5. Goran Dragic
2016-17 Averages: 20.3 Points, 5.8 Assists, 1.2 Steals
Goran Dragic is the first of three point guards on this list. The abundance of talent at the position means that the lesser names like Dragic go unnoticed. He is more of a traditional point guard as compared to the others PG's. Dragic averaged career highs in points and rebounds last season, as the Heat made a furious push in the 2nd half of the season to make the Playoffs. However, he is often outshined by two of his teammates.
Hassan Whiteside led the league in rebounding last season and Dion Waiters took most of the plaudits for their turn-around last season thanks to his flashy performances. While they played their part, Dragic's importance cannot be undermined. He missed nine games last season and the Heat lost eight of them.
Whiteside's offensive game still needs a lot of improvement and Waiters can be very erratic with his shooting but Dragic is the constant, consistent threat that the Heat have on both sides of the floor. He is a good defensive player and has a polished offensive game as well. He'll have a key role to play if the Heat are to contend for a top 4 seed in the East, but don't be surprised if his contributions are overlooked again.