10 NBA role players that could’ve become a superstar

10 NBA role players that could’ve become a superstar.

Many NBA players have had success by finding a role to play for their teams. However, here are 10 role players that could’ve been much more.

NBA role players are also important for any playoff contender. Their contribution and presence help add some depth to any team seeking a championship. While role players can thrive in what they’re asked to do, some even prove that they can take a leap forward. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. Here is a look at 10 NBA role players that could’ve become a superstar.

Jordan Poole

Washington Wizards guard Jordan Poole (13) shoots the ball as Portland Trail Blazers guard Dalano Banton (5) defends in the second half at Capital One Arena.

The Golden State Warriors’ aging core needed some youth to extend their dynasty. Previously, they had Jordan Poole, who was also capable of shooting the lights out. Given that he was an important piece in the Warriors’ 2022 title run, Poole was penciled to take the reins of the Warriors team down the road.

 

However, it was a controversial scuffle with Draymond Green during practice that forced the Warriors to part ways with Poole. Curiously, both sides haven’t done well since the latter was traded to Washington.

Shawn Marion

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Shawn Marion (31) reacts to a call during the fourth quarter against the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center. Phoenix won 107-100.

Widely regarded as The Matrix, Shawn Marion was an all-around forward who was capable of contributing on both ends of the floor. While being a reliable perimeter defender, Marion was also capable of scoring from the perimeter with his unorthodox shot.

 

Unfortunately, Marion was oven overlooked and underrated in the Suns teams. Had he played in today’s era, he might have been more revered similar to how Draymond Green is today.

Andrei Kirilenko

Brooklyn Nets forward Andrei Kirilenko (47) controls the basketball against Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) during the first quarter at Oracle Arena.

European players are being given the green light nowadays in the NBA. Had Andrei Kirilenko played today, a lot of basketball fans will agree that he’d be even become a bigger star. Kirilenko was a defensive stalwart while possessing the needed skills offensively. As a two-way player, Kirilenko had the tools to evolve into a superstar, the same path that Kawhi Leonard took.

Stretch big men that are capable of spacing the floor is a huge asset these days. Antawn Jamison possessed that and did it effectively.

 

However, what probably prevented Jamison from being elevated into a superstar is by simply playing for terrible teams like the Washington Wizards and the Golden State Warriors. Jamison only joined playoff contenders when he was already past his prime.

Antawn Jamison

Los Angeles Clippers power forward Antawn Jamison (33) and Portland Trail Blazers center Meyers Leonard (11) go for a rebound in the second half of the game at the Staples Center.

 

TJ Warren

Phoenix Suns forward TJ Warren (12) reacts as he argues with a referee against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Talking Stick Resort Arena.Lamar Odom

Dallas Mavericks power forward Lamar Odom (7) during a stoppage in play against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half at Staples Center.

Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Lamar Odom showed flashes that he was would become something special in the NBA. His all-around skills for his size made him an extremely great asset that helped the Los Angeles Lakers win back-to-back NBA championships. However, any basketball fan would agree that his off-court troubles ultimately killed his promising NBA career.