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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Mo Bamba (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images) /

NBA role players who could become stars elsewhere: 1. Mo Bamba

Finally starting to blossom this season after being trapped on the bench by Steve Clifford for years, Mo Bamba is finally starting to look like the player that got drafted sixth overall in 2018. There is plenty of competition on the roster for up-and-coming talents, and yet to start the season Bamba has shined. With restricted free agency not too far away, there is a chance that a team could look to bring him in before long.

First, the measurables on Bamba are astounding. The 23-year-old center stands 7’0” with a whopping 7’10” wingspan. This season has been the best of his career, averaging 10.8 points, 9.1 rebounds, 2.0 blocks, 1.8 assists and 0.9 steals per game. He is shooting greater than 70 percent from the line and 33 percent beyond the arc.

This is the first season he is receiving more than 17 minutes per game, a blemish on the developmental record of the previous coaching staff. Bamba was always a raw prospect, but he is still young enough that there is potential for an even greater leap in the right situation. He is developing into the ideal modern-day big man, with the potential to protect and score at the rim as well as stretch the floor when needed.