Every NBA Team's Most Underrated Player For The 2024-25 Season

In a league filled with superstar names and marquee players, it’s easy for some of the NBA's most valuable contributors to fly under the radar. Each team has that one player whose impact doesn’t always grab headlines, but whose presence on the court is indispensable. As we dive into the 2024-25 season, let’s take a closer look at the unsung heroes—specifically the most underrated player on each NBA team.

Atlanta Hawks - Jalen Johnson

2023-24 Season Statistics: 16.0 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Jalen Johnson is emerging as a pivotal, yet often overlooked, piece for the Atlanta Hawks in 2024-25. Known for his athleticism and versatility, Johnson has quietly developed into a dynamic two-way forward, capable of defending multiple positions while providing a spark in transition.

With the Hawks potentially shifting focus away from Trae Young amid trade rumors, Johnson’s role could expand, making him a vital contributor to their evolving system.  As he continues to fly under the radar, Johnson is poised to be the Hawks’ X-factor this season and his numbers could see a boost as a result.

Boston Celtics - Derrick White

2023-24 Season Statistics: 15.2 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 5.2 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.2 BPG

Derrick White had a solid season for the Boston Celtics , averaging 15.2 points and 5.2 assists per game on 39.6% from three. His scoring and playmaking abilities have been keys for Boston, providing stability and versatility in the backcourt as he contours to get overlooked due to All-Star players such as Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Kristaps Porzingis.

In terms of impact, White might also be the second-best defender on the team behind Jrue Holiday since he made his second-straight All-Defensive Second Team selection. Expect White to fly under the radar once again in 2024-25 but have an All-Star impact on both ends of the court.

Brooklyn Nets - Nic Claxton

2023-24 Season Statistics: 11.8 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.6 SPG, 2.1 BPG

Nic Claxton will be a key defensive force for the Brooklyn Nets next season since he averaged 11.8 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game. His shot-blocking and rebounding abilities have been crucial for Brooklyn's defense, and he showed promise on the offensive end as well.

Since Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving have left, Nic Claxton has not received as much praise as he used to but the big man never takes a night off in the paint. Even if the Nets blow up their roster around him, Claxton will likely remain the most underrated on the squad.

Charlotte Hornets - Brandon Miller

2023-24 Season Statistics: 17.3 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Brandon Miller had a great rookie season for the Hornets , averaging 17.3 points and 4.3 rebounds per game last season. However, Brandon Miller is being overlooked because of how great Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren were last season as rookies from the same draft class.

Miller's scoring abilities seem instrumental in Charlotte's offense, and he will establish himself as a key contributor for the team going forward. Miller deserves a little more praise despite the team’s poor team record last season (21-61).

Chicago Bulls - Ayo Dosunmu

2023-24 Season Statistics: 12.2 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 3.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Coby White’s breakout season has made talented guard Ayo Dosunmu seem like an ordinary bench player but that is not the truth. Dosunmu had a promising season for the Bulls, averaging 12.2 points and 3.2 assists per game last season in 29.1 minutes per game of action.

Dosunmu's scoring skills have been crucial for Chicago, and he has shown potential as a sharpshooter by nailing 40.3% from deep which is impressive, to say the least. The guard will likely have a similar role in 2024-25 as the most underrated on the squad.

Cleveland Cavaliers - Isaac Okoro

2023-24 Season Statistics: 9.4 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 1.9 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Isaac Okoro has been a steady, yet underrated, presence for the Cleveland Cavaliers , especially with so much attention on their backcourt stars like Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. Okoro's defensive prowess is what sets him apart—he routinely guards the opponent’s top perimeter threats, allowing the Cavs’ stars to focus more on offense.

While his offensive numbers don’t jump off the stat sheet, his improved three-point shooting and ability to attack the rim add balance to Cleveland’s lineup. With Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen anchoring the paint, Okoro’s perimeter defense is crucial for the Cavs’ success in the Eastern Conference.

Dallas Mavericks - Daniel Gafford

2023-24 Season Statistics: 11.0 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 1.6 APG, 0.9 SPG, 2.1 BPG

Daniel Gafford has become one of the Dallas Mavericks' most underrated acquisitions, providing much-needed rim protection and energy in the paint. With Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving commanding so much attention offensively, Gafford’s ability to anchor the defense often goes unnoticed, but his shot-blocking and rebounding are vital to the Mavs’ success.

Gafford’s athleticism and ability to finish around the rim give Dallas a strong interior presence, something they've lacked in recent seasons. As the Mavericks look to make another Finals run, his role as a defensive anchor will be even more crucial against elite Western Conference big men.

Denver Nuggets - Aaron Gordon

2023-24 Season Statistics: 13.9 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 3.5 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Aaron Gordon continues to be the unsung hero of the Denver Nuggets , often overshadowed by Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, despite his critical role in their success. Known primarily for his defensive versatility, Gordon can guard positions 1 through 5, giving Denver a huge advantage against elite scorers.

Offensively, he thrives as a cutter and secondary playmaker, capitalizing on Jokić’s passing to finish at the rim with ease. His improved three-point shooting and basketball IQ make him an indispensable piece in the Nuggets' championship pursuit. While the spotlight remains on Denver’s stars, Gordon’s two-way contributions could once again be key to another deep playoff run.

Detroit Pistons - Jaden Ivey

2023-24 Season Statistics: 15.4 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 3.8 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Jaden Ivey had a solid second season for the Pistons , yet is overlooked because of how talented Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren are. His scoring and playmaking abilities have been promising for Detroit, and he showed potential as a future leader for the team when it comes to the defensive side of the ball as well.

Unfortunately, Ivey is playing on the worst team in the league which only had 14 wins last season. The combo guard has a high ceiling as a fringe All-Star seemingly the next step for him but we have to wait and see.

Golden State Warriors - Brandon Podziemski

2023-24 Season Statistics: 9.2 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 3.7 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG

With so many big names including Stephen Curry , Draymond Green, and even Jonathan Kuminga, Brandon Podziemski often goes unnoticed despite providing valuable minutes for the Golden State Warriors , averaging 9.2 points per game on 38.5% from deep.

His shooting and energy were key for Golden State's second unit, and he showed promise as a young player in the league. In 2024-25, Podziemski will likely be underrated again even if he takes a bigger role on both ends of the court since Klay Thompson is gone.

Houston Rockets - Jabari Smith Jr.

2023-24 Season Statistics: 13.7 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 1.6 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Jabari Smith Jr. is a crucial player for the Houston Rockets , showing why he was a top-three pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. Overshadowed by flashier young talent like Jalen Green and Amen Thompson, Smith has made strides in his all-around game, particularly on the defensive end where his length and versatility are invaluable.

Offensively, he’s improved his shooting and shot creation, becoming a reliable stretch-four who can space the floor and hit key shots. As the Rockets rebuild under new head coach Ime Udoka, Smith’s two-way potential could be the stabilizing force that elevates Houston's young core.

Indiana Pacers - Myles Turner

2023-24 Season Statistics: 17.1 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 1.3 APG, 0.5 SPG, 1.9 BPG

Myles Turner has had yet another solid season for the Pacers, averaging 17.1 points and 1.9 blocks per game. His shot-blocking and rim protection have been crucial for Indiana's defense and his versatility offensively has helped the NBA’s number-one offense (122.7 PPG) function well.

Despite the consistent trade rumors, Turner has done an admirable job in recent seasons but it is likely the Pacers will be happy to keep him going forward. Turner is one of the best two-way bigs in the Eastern Conference and he somehow doesn't get the credit he deserves.

Los Angeles Clippers - Norman Powell

2023-24 Season Statistics: 13.9 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 1.1 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Norman Powell provides an undeniable scoring punch for the Clippers, who will always make noise because of Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. Powell posted 13.9 points per game last season on 43.5% from three so his impact is clear to see in the modern NBA.

Powell’s scoring ability and athleticism are key for Los Angeles because he is one of the best sixth men in the league and can make the Clippers look nearly unstoppable at times with the way he fits alongside superstar players.

Los Angeles Lakers - Austin Reaves

2023-24 Season Statistics: 15.9 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 5.5 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Austin Reaves has steadily transformed from an undrafted player into one of the Los Angeles Lakers' most underrated stars, even with the likes of LeBron James and Anthony Davis commanding the spotlight. While LeBron and AD get the headlines, Reaves is the hidden key to L.A.'s success this season.

Reaves’ ability to impact the game on both ends makes him a valuable asset—he’s a smart playmaker, a reliable shooter, and an excellent defender. As he continues to improve his scoring and ball handling, Reaves could very well be the glue that holds the Lakers together in their quest for another title.

Memphis Grizzlies - GG Jackson II

2023-24 Season Statistics: 14.6 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG

GG Jackson II had a solid rookie season for the Grizzlies, even if he only appeared in 48 games. His athleticism and scoring ability have been a bright spot for Memphis when there has been a ton of drama on and off the court for the franchise, mainly relating to superstar Ja Morant.

The 19-year-old was far better than anyone could have predicted last season and deserves credit for his ability to fill it up on offense. The 6'9" forward will likely have an important role in 2024-25 as he flies under the radar because of Morant's return.

Miami Heat - Jaime Jaquez Jr.

2023-24 Season Statistics: 11.9 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Jaime Jaquez Jr. has quickly become an underrated asset for the Miami Heat , seamlessly fitting into their "Heat Culture" with his toughness and versatility. As a rookie, Jaquez brings a mature game with his high basketball IQ, defensive grit, and ability to score in a variety of ways—whether it’s cutting, shooting, or creating his own shot.

With stars like Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo receiving most of the attention, Jaquez has the potential to contribute significantly off the bench or in a starting role, especially given Miami’s reliance on role players in big moments. Jaquez Jr. will likely have better scoring numbers for the Heat next season.

Milwaukee Bucks - Bobby Portis

2023-24 Season Statistics: 13.8 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 1.3 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Bobby Portis remains one of the Milwaukee Bucks' most underrated players, despite being a fan favorite and a key contributor off the bench. Known for his high energy and passion, Portis brings a physical presence in the paint, providing valuable rebounding and scoring in key moments.

His ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting makes him a perfect complement to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, giving Milwaukee additional spacing. While the spotlight shines on the team's stars, Portis' consistency and toughness make him a vital piece in their championship aspirations.

Minnesota Timberwolves - Jaden McDaniels

2023-24 Season Statistics: 10.5 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Jaden McDaniels had a breakout season for the Timberwolves last year and continues to be a defensive stalwart for them. Rudy Gobert is certainly the biggest reason Minnesota had the number-one-ranked defense in the league last year but McDaniels’ presence on the wing has helped as well.

The Timberwolves are a very exciting team and they continue to nurture talent as they progress together. The NBA Finals is the goal for the team in 2024-25 and McDaniels must find a way to continue his All-Defensive Team-caliber play to make that a reality for everyone, especially with some roster changes including Julius Randle coming on board.

New Orleans Pelicans - Trey Murphy III

2023-24 Season Statistics: 14.8 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 2.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Trey Murphy III is quietly establishing himself as one of the most underrated players for the New Orleans Pelicans, showcasing his potential as a dynamic scorer and versatile wing. Known for his sharpshooting ability, Murphy’s three-point proficiency opens up the floor for his teammates, particularly Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, allowing them to operate more freely in the paint.

His defensive skills are also improving, as he works to become a two-way player capable of guarding multiple positions. As he continues to develop, Murphy could be the X-factor that elevates New Orleans in the competitive Western Conference.

New York Knicks - Josh Hart

2023-24 Season Statistics: 9.4 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 4.1 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Josh Hart has become an invaluable, yet often underrated, player for the New York Knicks , exemplifying the grit and hustle that defines the team’s identity. Known for his tenacious defense and rebounding ability, Hart consistently impacts games on both ends of the floor, making him a reliable presence in crucial moments and the team will need that since Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo are both gone.

His versatility allows him to play multiple positions, and he excels in transition, often turning defense into quick scoring opportunities. Offensively, Hart has shown improvement in his shooting, adding another dimension to his game and helping to space the floor for stars Jalen Brunson and newcomer Karl-Anthony Towns

Oklahoma City Thunder - Luguentz Dort

2023-24 Season Statistics: 10.9 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Luguentz Dort remains one of the most underrated players for the Oklahoma City Thunder , serving as a crucial two-way player in their young and dynamic roster. Renowned for his tenacious perimeter defense, Dort consistently matches up against the league's best scorers, providing a level of toughness that is invaluable to the Thunder's success.

Offensively, he has evolved into a reliable scorer, capable of hitting key three-pointers and driving to the basket, making him a well-rounded threat. With Oklahoma City aiming to solidify its position as a playoff contender, Dort's ability to contribute on both ends of the floor will be pivotal in complementing stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren.

Orlando Magic - Jalen Suggs

2023-24 Season Statistics: 12.6 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 2.7 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Jalen Suggs is slowly coming into his own and realizing his potential as a two-way guard. His playmaking and defensive ability have been crucial for Orlando, a team that has climbed the Eastern Conference standings and took the Cavaliers to seven games in the first round of the playoffs last season.

With so many talented players on the team, Suggs might be the most underrated and his improvement this season has been impressive. The former No. 5 overall pick could be a long-term starter for the Magic because he made his first All-Defensive Team selection and looks primed to make another one in 2024-25.

Philadelphia 76ers - Kelly Oubre Jr.

2023-24 Season Statistics: 15.4 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 1.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Kelly Oubre Jr. has quickly become an underrated asset for the Philadelphia 76ers , bringing a unique blend of athleticism and scoring ability to the team. Oubre can score in a variety of ways, from driving to the hoop to knocking down perimeter shots, which adds valuable depth to the 76ers' offense.

His tenacity on defense allows him to guard multiple positions, fitting seamlessly into Philadelphia’s defensive schemes. With his potential to shine alongside stars like Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey, Oubre could be the spark the 76ers need to elevate their game.

Phoenix Suns - Grayson Allen

2023-24 Season Statistics: 13.5 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 3.0 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Grayson Allen has emerged as one of the most underrated players for the Phoenix Suns , bringing both grit and scoring ability to their lineup. Known for his sharpshooting (46.1% 3-PT FG in 2023-24), Allen can stretch the floor with his three-point shooting, creating valuable spacing for superstars like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker to operate.

As Phoenix looks to make a strong playoff push, Allen's experience and ability to deliver in clutch moments could prove vital to their success. With the potential to be a key contributor off the bench, Allen might just be the X-factor that elevates the Suns’ championship aspirations this season.

Portland Trail Blazers - Jerami Grant

2023-24 Season Statistics: 21.0 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Jerami Grant might be the most consistent player on the Portland Trail Blazers because of his veteran experience and even if he hasn’t affected the team record, his name doesn’t seem to get mentioned as much as it should.

He might not be part of the long-term roster due to his age, but Grant might be Portland’s best player on both ends of the court. Expect the Trail Blazers to try and trade Grant with a chance to continue their rebuild.

Sacramento Kings - Malik Monk

2023-24 Season Statistics: 15.4 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 5.1 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Malik Monk provided a ton of scoring and energy off the bench for the Kings and is almost invaluable in that sense. Anytime Sacramento’s offense stagnates, Mike Brown throws in Monk off the bench and points get put on the board almost immediately.

Monk deserves a ton of praise for always being ready to come in and light up the scoring sheet, which is why the Kings brought him back on a new deal. Expect Monk to be a legitimate contender for Sixth Man of the Year next year.

San Antonio Spurs - Keldon Johnson

2023-24 Season Statistics: 15.7 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Keldon Johnson is not mentioned often when discussing San Antonio’s elite talent including Rookie of the Year favorite Victor Wembanyama and others such as Devin Vassell and Jeremy Sochan. Johnson scores and rebounds well and whether he gets traded or not, he is an excellent role player.

Expect Johnson to play a similar role next season with the Spurs in terms of scoring, rebounding, and running on the break. We need to see a defensive improvement from Johnson for the Spurs to find him more valuable, but he is underrated nonetheless.

Toronto Raptors - Jakob Poeltl

2023-24 Season Statistics: 11.1 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 2.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.5 BPG

Jakob Poeltl provides interior defense and rebounding for the Raptors and his shot-blocking and rim protection are crucial for Toronto's defense. An old-school center who can’t shoot doesn’t get much attention in the league anymore but Poeltl does his job exceptionally well every night regardless of his numbers.

Expect the big man to average similar numbers in 2024-25 as he did in 2023-24 and continue doing the dirty work that modern NBA players do not want to do anymore. Poeltl will never make an All-Star Team but he will play an important role in the post.

Utah Jazz - Keyonte George

2023-24 Season Statistics: 13.0 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 4.4 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Keyonte George had a solid rookie season for the Jazz and is one of the most promising players on the team. His scoring and playmaking ability have been promising for Utah, and he showed potential as a future long-term starter for the team as long as he can improve his three-point shooting above 33.4%.

Expect George to continue being an underrated player for Utah because the focus of fans and the media, whenever the Jazz are concerned, will be on Lauri Markkanen and to a lesser extent, Collin Sexton.

Washington Wizards - Bilal Coulibaly

2023-24 Season Statistics: 8.4 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Bilal Coulibaly is one of the most intriguing and underrated prospects for the Washington Wizards, showcasing immense potential in his rookie season. Known for his impressive athleticism and defensive prowess, Coulibaly can guard multiple positions, which is crucial for a rebuilding team looking to establish a solid defensive foundation.

Offensively, he brings a dynamic skill set, with the ability to score both inside and outside, making him a versatile threat on the wing. As the Wizards focus on developing their young talent, Coulibaly’s growth could play a significant role in shaping the franchise's future.

Related: Every NBA Team's Best Player For The 2024-25 Season

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