When we think of NBA legends, names like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Kobe Bryant instantly pop up in our minds. With countless documentaries and highlight reels, we recognize the star power on the courts.
But what about the unsung heroes? Who were the role players who made crucial passes and sacrificed personal glory for team success? In this article, we’ll uncover the most underrated NBA role players of the last decade — you might even be surprised by who made the list!
Before we dive into the list, let’s define the role players. While they may not be the stars or the most popular, these "glue guys" are essential. They defend, hit shots, and support their teammates’ success.
Often overlooked, they may not land All-Star spots in the NBA or have top-selling jerseys, but when it comes to consistency and reliability, they’re always there. Thanks to a team-first mentality that’s gained traction in the last decade, these role players are finally receiving more recognition. Now, let's explore some of the most underrated role players of this decade.
#1: Luol Deng
Deng spent 16 years in the NBA, playing for teams like the Chicago Bulls, Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Lakers, and Minnesota Timberwolves. Having spent ten years with the Chicago Bulls from 2004 to 2014, where he made two All-Star appearances in 2012 and 2013, he went on to join other franchises, becoming an integral part of their squads.
He is known for his outstanding perimeter defending, which logged heavy minutes for the Bulls, especially during their playoff runs. His gameplay may not be flashy, but when it comes to blocking the opponent’s best scorers, it’s a job for Luol Deng. His consistency, professionalism, and two All-Star performances make him top of the list.
#2: Mike Con
Mike Conley's 18-season-long career is worth talking about, especially when clutch performances are being considered. At the Memphis Grizzlies — the team he first played for from 2007 — he was considered the floor general of the “Grit and Grind" era.
His calm leadership presence added balance to the teams he played with, and it always raised eyebrows that his excellence didn't earn him an All-Star performance till the 2020-2021 season when he was playing for the Utah Jazz. Many fans believe that he was the best player to never make an All-Star before the season he did.
In 2007, he was ranked 4th overall in the player rankings. His career has seen him move from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Utah Jazz and the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he has been playing since 2023.
#3: Jamal Crawford
Jamal Crawford's name finds its way into the list of longest-playing NBA players. After starting in 2000 with the Chicago Bulls, Crawford etched his name as one of the best sixth men in NBA history. He is only the second person in NBA history to score over 1,000 points coming off the bench, and for three seasons, he won the Sixth Man of the Year award.
His style was entertaining and graceful, making him a popular figure among fans. His long career would see him play for the likes of the New York Knicks, Atlanta Hawks, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers, and Phoenix Suns, among others. In 2022, he retired from the NBA while playing his last season with the Brooklyn Nets. Despite these incredible stats, he has yet to receive the respect he deserves from the fan base.
#4: Shane Battier
Shane was respected for his defensive prowess and his unselfish approach towards games. His 13-year-long career saw him play for the Memphis Grizzlies, Houston Rockets, and Miami Heat. In 2012 and 2013, he won the NBA Championships with the Miami Heat, but he is best remembered for his “glue guy" role in games.
Little wonder he won the Tyman-Stokes “Teammate of the Year" award in 2014. He may not have given video editors highlight performances except for his spot-up shots, but his discipline, leadership, and sportsmanship brought glory to the Miami Heat.
#5: Trevor Ariza
Trevor’s ability to adapt quickly to different environments made him a coveted player, such that he played for 10 different teams in his career. His defensive game was top-notch, and he would feature in about 102 playoff games with five different teams in his career.
He was a part of the Los Angeles Lakers team that won the NBA Championship in 2009. He may not have his name on the NBA Hall of Fame, but he deserves some credit for his incredible career.
How do role players influence betting outcomes?
Role players can have a big impact on NBA betting results, often in ways that casual bettors miss. These players may not put up flashy numbers, but they help control the pace of games, shut down key opposing players, and provide steady scoring when their star teammates struggle.
Their contributions can be the difference between a team covering the spread or falling short by a few points. This is where more profound sports knowledge comes into play, especially for bettors looking to go beyond the obvious.
In the world of online betting and casino platforms, having access to accurate insights and trusted sportsbooks is essential. That’s where a site like askgamblers.com becomes useful. Known for its casino and betting expertise, AskGamblers offers detailed sportsbook reviews, user feedback, and curated promotions, helping bettors make smarter decisions based on data — not just hype.
Whether you’re backing a favorite or looking for value in an underdog with strong role-player support, platforms like AskGamblers help bridge the gap between basketball fandom and betting strategy. Role players may not dominate headlines, but in the betting world, they’re often the hidden edge savvy punters are looking for.
Final thoughts
No doubt, role players have been a vital aspect of the NBA we know and cherish. Despite their excellent performance, they've managed to miss the spotlight that shines on other stars. Nevertheless, those who truly know the game do acknowledge the relevance of these players who have spent their careers contributing to team success at the expense of their personal glory.
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