Los Angeles Lakers: 3 most underrated players heading into 2017-18

Larry Nance Jr., PF

Most people know Larry Nance Jr. for his ferocious dunks — specifically, one over a certain big man who was recently acquired by the Lakers. If you pay close attention, though, you’ll find that the former first round pick brings much more than the occasional highlight dunk.

In actuality, Nance isn’t a huge offensive asset. He can put up points when he needs to, but his deep game is still a work in progress and he managed only 7.1 points per game last year. When looking at his true value, the offense isn’t the real focal point of Nance’s skill-set.

It’s actually all about his defense. Nance is an exceptional defender, doing a great job of working on or off the ball and contesting shots. As the 2016-17 campaign progressed, he continued his emergence as a playmaker on the defensive end. Nance even claimed he wants to be Defensive Player of the Year, via Inside SoCal‘s Mark Medina:

"“Whether it’s next year or the year after or the year after that, I want to be a guy that is in the Defensive Player of the Year discussions,” Nance said. “I think I have the ability.”"

He’s got a ways to go before he enters that discussion. Still, it’s worth pointing out the impact Nance makes for this Lakers defense. He’s one of their best bench players who can even step in as the center in small-ball lineups.

Folks were skeptical when Los Angeles made Nance a first round selection in 2015. Based on what we’ve seen through two seasons, though, it was a pick well spent.