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NBA: Under The Radar Reserves Contributing Big Time

By Simon Smith

Dec 14, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Toronto Raptors forward Patrick Patterson (54) reacts to his three pointer in front of Philadelphia 76ers guard Gerald Henderson (12) during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Toronto Raptors won 123.114. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 14, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Toronto Raptors forward Patrick Patterson (54) reacts to his three pointer in front of Philadelphia 76ers guard Gerald Henderson (12) during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Toronto Raptors won 123.114. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports /

Montrezl Harrell, Houston Rockets

Harrell has thrived with his increased role in Houston, as has definitely not suffered from a case of the second-year blues. The jump in minutes from 9.7 to 17.7 has done wonders for both Harrell and the Rockets. To this point of the season, Harrell is posting 8.9 points and 3.7 rebounds per game on 64.4 percent shooting from the field.

His role has further increased recently due to the absence of starting center Clint Cappella. Over the past eight games, Harrell has averaged 14.1 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.1 blocks in 27.9 minutes per game. The Rockets are 8-1 in this span, taking their record to 29-9 for the season.

Harrell has proved to be another inspired move by general manager Daryl Morey. Selected in the second round at pick No. 32, Harrell’s sheer athleticism has helped him overcome his perceived lack of size (6’8″) at the 4 and 5-spot. Rockets’ head coach Mike D’Antoni recently commented on what sets Harrell apart:

"He plays with an unbelievable ferocity. He plays hard. He plays with passion. Montrezl is one of the top five in taking charges in the league (ranking fifth, but second in changes drawn per minute). He’ll sacrifice his body. He’ll run the floor. He’s a smart basketball player. He’s getting better. I think he’ll eventually add a 3-point shot to his arsenal. If he does that, he’ll be really, really good. He’s turned into a good NBA basketball player. Very good.”"

The following clip is a prime example of Harrell’s elite athleticism, and what attracted the Rockets to him in the 2015 NBA Draft.

Furthermore, the difference when Harrell has been on and of the floor has been pronounced.

Offensive Rating (San Antonio’s points scored per 100 possessions)

  • Harrell On Court: 116.4
  • Harrell Off Court: 110.7

Defensive Rating (Opposition points scored per 100 possessions)

  • On Court: 103.1
  • Off Court: 105.4

Harrell has clearly made amazing progress in just his second season in the league. The Rockets are now rolling with a 29-9 record and placed third in the Western Conference. For a second round pick and just 22 years of age, playing on a contending team will only help develop Harrell’s hame and reputation.

Next: 5 Teams That Could Trade For Jimmy Butler

While these four role players are unheralded, their importance to their respective teams cannot be underestimated. Flanked by superstar teammates, their performances can very easily be overlooked. But come playoff time, their significance will come to the forefront.