NBA: Role Players who could become stars elsewhere

HOUSTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 24: Christian Wood #35 of the Houston Rockets in action during the second half at Toyota Center on November 24, 2021 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /

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Christian Wood (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /

Who is next is the question on the lips of every NBA general manager looking to add a potential hidden gem from another team. Finding the diamond in the rough is how executives make their names and how teams take the next step out of nowhere. In some cases, internal development takes its course, like Julius Randle blossoming into an All-NBA talent out of nowhere. However, more often than not it takes a change of scenery and increased opportunity for a player to truly take off.

Today we will be looking at 30 players who could rise to the level of star should they find themselves wearing a new jersey. In general, star is a vague term and in this piece, it will be used with some level of vagueness. Some players would have the potential to turn into an All-Star just given the increased opportunity. Others would be able to shine as a star in their role, pushing a team into another level of title contention. Finally, star can also be about maintaining the same level of play but finally being featured in a winning culture, proving to the world that they were stars all along.

As trade season approaches, we look at 30 players who could become a star if they were moved. Who should teams consider taking a chance on?

These will not be rankings of these players, just a list of some potential standouts worthy of keeping an eye on to monitor their progress. All stats are finalized as of November 27, 2021., for the sake of clarity. Let’s get started.