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)
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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(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

NBA role players who could become stars elsewhere: 4. Mikal Bridges

This is the first example on this list that could be a player that may already be in the perfect situation for their talents. Mikal Bridges has shown exceptional growth and proved that he could be a valued starter for a team that made it all the way to the NBA Finals. Far too often he has been referred to as the prototypical 3-and-D wing but going forward there is a chance he grows into much more.

Bridges is an exceptional scorer at all levels. For the second consecutive year, he is shooting around 40 percent from distance. He has shot at least 60 percent on two-point shots in every season outside of his rookie year. He is also an ironman, having yet to miss a single game in his professional career.

Bridges is a star in plain sight and only seems to get better with increased opportunity. The more times the Suns go on a deep run through the postseason, NBA fans across the globe will see how truly special he is. He was not needed to have as large of a hand in statistical output in last season’s Finals, but he still had his moment. In Game 2, Bridges exploded for 27 points, seven rebounds, one assist and one steal.