NBA X-Factors
Superstars tend to get all of the notoriety. The Russell Westbrook’s and James Harden’s of the NBA universe are continually bombarded with praise, but so often it is their teammates playing pivotal roles that go underappreciated. Here are three players on teams in playoff contention that deserve their share of adulation.
1. Steven Adams, Oklahoma City Thunder. Adams is probably the strongest man in the NBA. And he does all of the dirty work for the Thunder. Frequently the New Zealander can be seen forcefully boxing out opponents so his teammates (Russell Westbrook) can pad their rebounding stats. Selflessness is the mantra for the bearded giant. Adams ability to set solid screens and to dominate on the glass is a crucial ingredient for Billy Donovan and the Thunder.
2. Terry Rozier, Boston Celtics. Rozier plays quite frenetically, but he is effective nonetheless. The Louisville product is averaging 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists primarily off the bench for the Celtics, although he has assumed the starting point guard role for the C’s with Kyrie Irving sidelined with a knee ailment. While Rozier’s shot certainly isn’t on Kyrie’s level, he allows Brad Stevens to rest Uncle Drew (when healthy) without having to worry that Boston’s lead will disintegrate.
3. Fred VanVleet, Toronto Raptors. The Raptors depth is unmatched in the NBA and VanVleet leads Toronto’s bench mob. The second-year pro out of Wichita State has really found a role for himself in Dwane Casey’s system this season. His numbers are pedestrian (9 points and 3 assists), but he is shooting 41% from deep which forces the defense to space the floor giving Demar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry ample room to operate.
