The Most Underrated NBA Player Of Every Season In This Century

In the star-studded universe of the NBA, where highlight reels and scoring leaders grab most of the headlines, there exists a parallel narrative—those of the underrated players whose contributions are crucial yet often go unnoticed. 

Each season, amidst the flashy dunks and buzzer-beaters, certain players have stood out not just for their ability to perform but for doing so without the fanfare typically afforded to their more celebrated counterparts. From defensive stalwarts and sharpshooters to versatile role players, these athletes have played pivotal roles in their teams' successes and have often been the linchpins in crucial victories.

2000-01 NBA Season - Marcus Camby

Stats: 12.0 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 0.8 APG, 1.0 SPG, 2.2 BPG

In the 2000-01 NBA season, Marcus Camby was a key figure for the New York Knicks, yet often did not receive the recognition his performances merited. Known for his defense, highlighted by an average of 2.2 blocks per game, Camby established himself as a formidable deterrent in the paint. Despite this, he was frequently overshadowed by more offensively dominant centers and the media spotlight on his higher-profile teammates.

Camby's impact extended beyond scoring; his rebounding and shot-blocking significantly influenced the Knicks' defensive capabilities, offering critical second-chance opportunities and deterring opponents. His defensive versatility was notable, as he effectively guarded multiple positions—a highly valuable skill that was underappreciated at the time.

2001-02 NBA Season - Brent Barry

Stats: 14.4 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Brent Barry was a pivotal figure in the Seattle SuperSonics' success during the 2001-02 season, yet he seldom received the recognition he deserved despite his impressive statistics and multifaceted contributions. Consistently delivering across multiple categories, he excelled not only in scoring but also in assists and steals, making him one of the most versatile players on the team.

The SuperSonics finished the season with a 45-37 record, securing a playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference. Barry's ball-handling skills and court vision were crucial in many of the team's offensive schemes, facilitating play and providing leadership on the court without a high media profile. His efficiency from the three-point line (42.3%) and his ability to create play opportunities not only bolstered the offense but also stabilized the team during critical moments.

2002-03 NBA Season - Bruce Bowen

Stats: 7.1 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Bruce Bowen was an integral part of the San Antonio Spurs during their 2002-03 championship-winning season, yet his contributions often went underappreciated outside of basketball purists and Spurs fans. Known primarily for his defensive prowess, Bowen's role was crucial in matchups against the league's best wing players. His ability to lock down opponents with relentless perimeter defense was a key component in the Spurs' defensive strategy.

The Spurs finished the season with an impressive 60-22 record and ultimately won the NBA Championship. Bowen started all 82 regular season games and all playoff games, showcasing his durability and importance to the team. Despite his modest scoring numbers, his defensive contributions were invaluable; he was frequently tasked with guarding the opposing team's best offensive player, significantly impacting games without necessarily filling up the stat sheet.

2003-04 NBA Season - Tayshaun Prince

Stats: 10.3 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 2.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Tayshaun Prince played a critical role in the Detroit Pistons' championship-winning season in 2003-04, yet his contributions often went unrecognized by the broader NBA audience. As a versatile forward, Prince was pivotal in both the Pistons' offense and defense, providing the team with much-needed flexibility.

The Pistons finished the season with an impressive 54-28 record and went on to win the NBA Championship, largely due to their defensive prowess. Prince was central to this, tasked with guarding some of the league's top players throughout the season and playoffs. His standout moment came in the Eastern Conference Finals, where he made a crucial block on Reggie Miller that is still remembered as one of the defining plays of the playoffs.

Despite his importance, especially in the playoffs, Prince's contributions were overshadowed by the more celebrated performances of teammates like Ben Wallace and Chauncey Billups. His scoring average, though modest, belied his impact on the floor, where his length and defensive instincts were instrumental. His ability to hit key shots, coupled with his defensive assignments, made him an unsung hero of that championship team.

2004-05 NBA Season - Joe Johnson

Stats: 17.1 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Joe Johnson played a crucial role in the Phoenix Suns' successful 2004-05 season, yet often remained in the shadows of more celebrated teammates like Steve Nash and Amare Stoudemire. Johnson provided consistent scoring and versatility as a playmaker and defender, making him a vital part of the Suns' offense, which was one of the most prolific in NBA history.

The Suns finished the regular season with a stellar record of 62-20, securing the top seed in the Western Conference. Johnson’s ability to stretch the floor with his shooting (46.1% FG, 47.1% 3PT) was instrumental in the Suns' fast-paced offense. His size and skill set allowed him to play multiple positions and take on various defensive assignments, enhancing the team's flexibility.

2005-06 NBA Season - Shane Battier

Stats: 10.1 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.4 BPG

Shane Battier was an indispensable part of the Memphis Grizzlies during their 2005-06 season, perfectly embodying the role of an ultimate team player with his understated yet critical contributions. While his scoring was modest, Battier's overall impact was felt across multiple facets of the game, making him one of the league’s most underrated players.

The Grizzlies finished the regular season with a commendable 49-33 record, earning a playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference. Battier's defensive acumen was a cornerstone, as he routinely guarded the opponent's best perimeter player, significantly mitigating their impact. His high basketball IQ allowed him to excel in less glamorous but crucial aspects of the game, such as taking charges, disrupting passing lanes, and making timely offensive cuts.

Additionally, Battier's ability to knock down three-point shots at a 39.4% clip provided essential spacing, complementing the interior play of teammates like Pau Gasol. Despite these substantial contributions, Battier rarely received the national media attention or accolades typically awarded to more flashy players, as his defensive skills and intangibles were often overlooked.

 2006-07 NBA Season - Matt Barnes

Stats: 9.8 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Matt Barnes was an essential component of the Golden State Warriors' "We Believe" team during the 2006-07 NBA season, contributing significantly to one of the most memorable playoff runs in recent history. While not the most glamorous player on the roster, Barnes played a vital role with his tough defense, versatile playmaking, and timely scoring.

The Warriors ended the regular season with a 42-40 record, earning the eighth seed in the Western Conference and famously upsetting the top-seeded Dallas Mavericks in the first round of the playoffs. Barnes' versatility was a key factor in this success; he was able to defend multiple positions, hit crucial three-point shots, and bring energy and toughness to the court. His playoff performance was particularly noteworthy, where he elevated his game significantly, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.

Despite these contributions, Barnes often remained under the radar, overshadowed by more prominent teammates. His all-around ability and impact on games were pivotal for the Warriors but did not attract significant media attention.

2007-08 NBA Season - Lamar Odom

Stats: 14.2 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Lamar Odom was a vital component of the Los Angeles Lakers during their 2007-08 season, where they reached the NBA Finals. Odom's versatility and ability to impact various facets of the game made him a crucial yet often underrated player on a team highlighted by stars like Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol.

The Lakers finished the regular season with a strong 57-25 record and made a deep playoff run, ultimately falling to the Boston Celtics in the Finals. Odom’s ability to play multiple positions, from point forward to center, allowed the Lakers to be flexible with their lineups. His all-around game was characterized by his ability to score, rebound, and facilitate for others, making him one of the most versatile players in the league.

His more famous teammates frequently overshadowed Odom and he did not receive the All-Star or All-NBA recognition that his performance might have warranted. His role was vital in both the regular season and the playoffs, providing the Lakers with a unique skill set that was difficult to match. His combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ was rare, yet the breadth of his contributions often went unrecognized, making him one of the most underrated players of the 2007-08 season.

2008-09 NBA Season - Hedo Turkoglu

Stats: 16.8 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 4.9 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Hedo Turkoglu was a critical element of the Orlando Magic’s success during their 2008-09 season, where they reached the NBA Finals. His ability to handle the ball, create shots for himself and others, and make clutch plays in key moments made him an essential but often underrated component of the team.

The Magic finished the regular season with a strong 59-23 record, showing significant improvement and emerging as a powerhouse in the Eastern Conference. Turkoglu’s unique playmaking ability at the forward position allowed Orlando to maximize the effectiveness of center Dwight Howard and sharpshooters like Rashard Lewis. His versatility was a key factor in the Magic's offensive system, providing a mismatch problem for many opponents due to his size and skill.

2009-10 NBA Season - Carl Landry

Stats: 16.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 0.8 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Carl Landry was a significant yet underrated presence during the 2009-10 NBA season, offering robust performance figures that highlighted his value across both the Houston Rockets and the Sacramento Kings. His scoring efficiency, demonstrated by his 54.7% field goal percentage, positioned him as one of the most effective interior scorers in the league.

During his tenure with the Rockets, Landry provided key contributions off the bench and as a starter, averaging impressive scoring figures that were crucial for the team. Following his mid-season trade to the Kings, he not only maintained his scoring efficiency but also took on a larger offensive role, which is reflected in his increased scoring average of 18.0 points per game with Sacramento.

Despite these contributions, Landry's role did not garner much recognition in league-wide discussions. His ability to impact games through scoring, combined with his solid rebounding numbers, especially in offensive contexts (2.1 offensive rebounds per game), underscored his value. However, this did not translate into All-Star selections or significant media attention.

2010-11 NBA Season - Wesley Matthews

Stats: 15.9 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Wesley Matthews was a crucial yet often overlooked player for the Portland Trail Blazers during the 2010-11 NBA season. Signed as an undrafted free agent just a year prior, Matthews quickly established himself as a reliable scoring option and a tenacious defender.

The Trail Blazers ended the regular season with a respectable 48-34 record, securing a playoff berth largely due to Matthews’ contributions on both ends of the floor. His scoring was efficient and consistent, exemplified by his solid shooting percentages: 44.9% from the field and 40.7% from three-point range. Matthews' ability to stretch the floor and defend multiple positions made him an invaluable asset to the Blazers.

2011-12 NBA Season - Arron Afflalo

Stats: 15.2 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Arron Afflalo stood out as a key performer for the Denver Nuggets during the 2011-12 season, which was shortened by a lockout. Known for his solid shooting and disciplined defense, Afflalo was a linchpin in a Nuggets team that prided itself on depth and collective effort.

Denver concluded the season with a 38-28 record, making a strong showing in the playoffs. Afflalo's role was crucial, not just as a scorer but also as a stabilizer in clutch situations. His shooting efficiency was a highlight, with a field goal percentage of 47.1% and an impressive 39.8% from beyond the arc. These stats underscore his ability to contribute significantly in the Nuggets’ dynamic offensive system.

What made Afflalo’s season particularly noteworthy was his adaptability and consistency. He was often tasked with guarding the opposing team's best perimeter player, providing the Nuggets with a defensive anchor on the wing. Despite these substantial contributions, Afflalo's season went relatively under the radar—no All-Star games or All-NBA nods, overshadowed perhaps by the flashier stories in the league.

2012-13 NBA Season - Mike Conley

Stats: 14.6 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 6.1 APG, 2.2 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Mike Conley was the quintessential unsung hero for the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2012-13 NBA season, orchestrating their offense and anchoring their defense with poise and efficiency. Despite leading Memphis to one of its best seasons in franchise history, Conley's contributions often didn't capture the national spotlight.

The Grizzlies finished with a robust 56-26 record, securing the fifth seed in a fiercely competitive Western Conference and reaching the Western Conference Finals for the first time in franchise history. Conley's leadership was instrumental, both as a scorer and as a facilitator, and his defensive prowess was highlighted by his 2.2 steals per game, ranking among the league leaders.

Conley's season was marked by his ability to control the pace of games, his clutch playmaking, and his tenacious defense. Yet, his performance was frequently overshadowed by more high-profile players. He received minimal consideration for All-Star or All-NBA teams, despite being the driving force behind a top NBA team.

2013-14 NBA Season - Kyle Korver

Stats: 12.0 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 2.9 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Kyle Korver's 2013-14 season with the Atlanta Hawks was a testament to his role as not just a shooter, but a pivotal component of a playoff-caliber team. Renowned for his sharpshooting, Korver set a record this season by making a three-pointer in 127 consecutive games, an NBA record that emphasized his reliability and skill as one of the league's premier shooters.

The Hawks finished the regular season with a 38-44 record, making it to the playoffs largely due to Korver's consistent performance. His shooting prowess, exemplified by an exceptional 47.2% from beyond the arc, not only spread the floor for his teammates but also created numerous scoring opportunities for the team.

Korver's role extended beyond mere shooting; his understanding of spacing and timing played a crucial role in the execution of Atlanta's offense under Coach Mike Budenholzer. However, his quiet efficiency and the subtlety of his game contributions led to him being one of the most underrated players of the 2013-14 season, overshadowed by more prominent names despite being a linchpin for the Hawks.

2014-15 NBA Season - Danny Green

Stats: 11.7 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Danny Green's 2014-15 season with the San Antonio Spurs exemplified his critical role as a two-way player in a team that prided itself on depth and fundamental basketball. Known for his defensive prowess and three-point shooting, Green was a key figure in helping the Spurs maintain their status as a championship-contending team.

The Spurs finished the regular season with a 55-27 record, securing a playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference. Green's ability to impact games without necessarily dominating the ball was evident in his shooting efficiency, particularly from beyond the arc where he shot 41.8%. His defensive contributions were equally impressive, averaging over a block and a steal per game, numbers that are exceptional for a guard.

Despite these statistics and his vital role on both ends of the floor, Green often flew under the radar. His performances in the Spurs' system, which emphasized team play over individual accolades, contributed to this underrecognition. He was crucial in critical playoff games, providing not only key defensive stops but also timely three-point shooting.

2015-16 NBA Season - Jae Crowder

Stats: 14.2 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Jae Crowder's 2015-16 season with the Boston Celtics showcased his importance as a versatile and tenacious player on a rapidly improving team. Crowder was essential in defining the gritty, hard-nosed playing style that became synonymous with the Celtics during this era.

The Celtics finished the season with a solid 48-34 record, securing a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. His 1.7 steals per game underscored his role as a defensive catalyst, disrupting opposing offenses and sparking fast-break opportunities for his team. Offensively, Crowder was more than just a role player; his 14.2 points per game were achieved with efficient shooting, including a 33.6% mark from three-point range.

Despite these contributions, Crowder was often overlooked in discussions about the key components of successful teams, overshadowed perhaps by more high-profile teammates and other stars in the league. His integral role in both the Celtics' offense and defense, combined with his competitive spirit, truly marked him as one of the most underrated players of the 2015-16 season.

2016-17 NBA Season - George Hill

Stats: 16.9 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.2 BPG

George Hill's 2016-17 season with the Utah Jazz was a standout campaign that showcased his effectiveness as a steady and reliable point guard in the NBA. His contributions were instrumental in helping the Jazz achieve one of their best seasons in recent history, emphasizing his role as a key player in their success.

The Jazz finished the season with a strong 51-31 record, securing a playoff spot and advancing to the second round, largely due to Hill's leadership and performance. His scoring average of 16.9 points per game was a career-high, demonstrating his ability to take on a more significant offensive role. Hill's shooting efficiency was notable, especially from beyond the arc where he shot an impressive 40.3%.

Despite these significant achievements, Hill's season went somewhat underappreciated in the broader NBA discourse. Often overshadowed by high-scoring stars or more flamboyant players, Hill's steady presence and all-around contributions were pivotal yet not as publicly celebrated. This oversight marks him as one of the most underrated players of the 2016-17 season, whose quiet efficiency and leadership were key to the Jazz's success.

2017-18 NBA Season - Robert Covington

Stats: 12.6 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Robert Covington's 2017-18 season with the Philadelphia 76ers exemplified his role as a critical defensive anchor and three-point shooter in a team that saw significant improvement, making it one of the standout campaigns in his career.

The 76ers finished the regular season with a 52-30 record, securing a playoff spot and marking their best performance in years. Covington was central to this success, providing elite perimeter defense which earned him a spot on the NBA All-Defensive First Team. His defensive statistics, including 1.7 steals and 0.9 blocks per game, highlight his ability to disrupt opposing offenses effectively.

Offensively, Covington contributed significantly with his three-point shooting, maintaining a solid 36.9% from beyond the arc on high volume, which stretched defenses and created space for teammates like Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons. This ability to hit crucial threes, combined with his defensive prowess, made him an invaluable two-way player for the 76ers.

Despite these contributions and accolades, Covington's overall impact often went underappreciated in the broader narrative of the NBA. While experts and analytics recognized his defensive skills, his complete role as a two-way player didn't always receive the recognition it deserved from the wider public.

2018-19 NBA Season - CJ McCollum

Stats: 21.0 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 3.0 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG

CJ McCollum's 2018-19 season with the Portland Trail Blazers highlighted his importance as a dynamic scorer and reliable secondary option alongside Damian Lillard. Despite consistent high-level performance, McCollum's contributions often didn't receive the same level of recognition as those of his superstar teammate or other high-profile guards in the league.

The Trail Blazers finished the regular season with an impressive 53-29 record, earning the third seed in the competitive Western Conference and reaching the Western Conference Finals for the first time since 2000. McCollum's role was pivotal, especially during the playoffs where his scoring ability shone brightly, including a memorable 37-point performance in Game 7 against the Denver Nuggets to clinch the series.

McCollum often remained in the shadows of more prominently discussed NBA stars. His steady presence and scoring prowess were crucial to Portland's deep playoff run, yet these contributions were sometimes overlooked in broader NBA discussions, making him one of the most underrated players of the 2018-19 season.

2019-20 NBA Season - Jrue Holiday

Stats: 19.1 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 6.7 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Jrue Holiday's 2019-20 season with the New Orleans Pelicans showcased his exceptional abilities as a two-way guard, yet his impact often went underrecognized amidst discussions of more high-profile NBA stars. His blend of offensive creativity and defensive tenacity made him a unique asset, though his contributions sometimes flew under the radar on a Pelicans team that was building around younger stars.

The Pelicans finished the season outside the playoff bubble, but Holiday's performances were a silver lining. He demonstrated leadership and versatility, handling a high usage rate and matching up defensively against the opponent's best perimeter players. Holiday's defensive prowess was particularly noteworthy, highlighted by his 1.6 steals per game, which placed him among the best defensive guards in the league.

Jrue Holiday's name rarely appeared in All-Star discussions, and he was not named to any All-NBA teams that season. This lack of recognition can be attributed to the Pelicans' overall performance and the overshadowing presence of more media-centric teammates. Holiday’s significant role and impact during the 2019-20 season marked him as one of the most underrated players of that year, setting the stage for his pivotal role in the Milwaukee Bucks' championship run the following season.

2020-21 NBA Season - Fred VanVleet

Stats: 19.6 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 6.3 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Fred VanVleet's 2020-21 season with the Toronto Raptors solidified his status as a key leader and standout performer, although his contributions often didn't receive the wide acclaim they deserved. Known for his tenacity and sharpshooting, VanVleet was instrumental in guiding a Raptors team that faced numerous challenges, including playing their home games in Tampa due to pandemic-related restrictions.

The Raptors missed the playoffs, finishing with a 27-45 record in a season marred by injuries and COVID-19 disruptions. Despite these hurdles, VanVleet's performance was a bright spot. He posted career-highs in points and assists, showcasing his growth from undrafted free agent to one of the league's most reliable guards. His defensive impact was equally impressive, averaging 1.7 steals per game, which ranked him among the top defenders at his position.

VanVleet's standout moment came when he set a franchise record with a 54-point game against the Orlando Magic, the highest-ever scoring game by an undrafted player in NBA history. This performance underscored his ability to take over games and his critical role in the Raptors' offense. Despite these achievements, VanVleet often remained overshadowed in a league full of star guards.

2021-22 NBA Season - Desmond Bane

Stats: 18.2 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 2.9 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Desmond Bane's 2021-22 season with the Memphis Grizzlies marked a significant breakout in his career, yet despite his impressive performances, he remained one of the more underrated talents in the league. In just his second year, Bane emerged as a vital cog in a young and dynamic Grizzlies team that exceeded expectations.

The Grizzlies finished the regular season with a strong 56-26 record, securing the second seed in the Western Conference. Bane's role was crucial in this success, providing consistent scoring and reliable shooting that complemented star Ja Morant's explosive play. His shooting efficiency was particularly noteworthy, as he shot 43.6% from three-point range, establishing himself as one of the league's elite shooters.

Despite these achievements, Bane's season didn't receive the same level of national media attention as some of his peers. While Morant captured the spotlight with high-flying dunks and game-winning plays, Bane's steady presence and improvement across the board contributed significantly to the Grizzlies' performance but were somewhat overlooked in broader conversations about emerging NBA stars.

2022-23 NBA Season - Derrick White

Stats: 12.4 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 3.9 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Derrick White's 2022-23 season with the Boston Celtics exemplified his crucial role as a versatile and impactful player on one of the top teams in the league. Despite not being the primary star, White's contributions were pivotal in helping the Celtics achieve a competitive edge, particularly during their deep playoff run.

The Celtics finished the regular season with a strong 57-25 record, asserting themselves as true contenders in the Eastern Conference. White's ability to blend scoring, playmaking, and especially his defensive prowess, added significant depth to the team. His near one block per game is particularly notable for a guard, showcasing his ability to impact the game defensively beyond traditional perimeter roles.

White's efficient shooting, including 39.6% from three-point range, provided critical spacing for teammates like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, allowing them more freedom to operate. Despite these substantial contributions, White often flew under the radar in discussions about the key players for Boston. He did not receive widespread recognition or accolades, which overshadowed the integral role he played within the team's system.

2023-24 NBA Season - Donte DiVincenzo

Stats: 15.5 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 2.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Donte DiVincenzo has emerged as a critical player for the New York Knicks during the 2023-24 NBA season, particularly shining in their playoff journey. His average of 17.8 points per game in the playoffs underscores his importance to the team. DiVincenzo has showcased his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, highlighted by a remarkable 35-point performance in a crucial playoff game against the Indiana Pacers, reflecting his scoring prowess and clutch play.

The Knicks finished the regular season with a strong 50-32 record, securing the second seed in the Eastern Conference, thanks in large part to DiVincenzo's contributions. His defensive skills are also notable, with an average of 1.2 steals per game, adding to his value on the court.

His efficiency from beyond the arc at 36.9% has been vital for the Knicks' offensive spacing, allowing their star players more room to operate. DiVincenzo's versatility in both offensive execution and defensive assignments highlights his all-around game, contributing significantly to the Knicks' successes this season.