Most NBA fans are aware of key statistical categories. These are often led by predominantly All-Star caliber NBA players that drive the league. It comes as no surprise to see Kevin Durant lead the league in scoring at 29.7 per game, Chris Paul dish the most dimes at 10.1 per game, or Rudy Gobert inhale the most rebounds at 14.8 per game.
But what about more specific, almost random NBA stats? Those that still hold some importance in determining a player’s performance this season, and what we may expect from them in the future.
Here are four categories led by low-profile players, with a couple of youngsters and a couple of veterans displaying their value and improvement across the league.
Unexpected NBA players that lead the league in random NBA stats
1. Leader in fourth-quarter three-point percentage (min. two attempts in the quarter and ten or more games played) – Immanuel Quickley (46.3 percent)
The young Knicks guard has often provided a spark off the bench for Tom Thibodeau this season, particularly in fourth quarters. His 46.3 percent from deep has helped him average 5.1 points in the fourth, making up exactly half of his overall scoring (10.2 points per game).
The 22-year-old’s fourth-quarter exploits were on full display against the Houston Rockets last week, scoring 15 of his team-high 24 points in the final period.
2. Leader in three-point percentage (min. two attempts per game and ten or more games played) – Zeke Nnaji (51.4 percent)
Although the second-year forward has had limited opportunities at the NBA level, he’s already shown to be a capable three-point shooter. After shooting a healthy 40.7 percent from deep in 42 games last season, the 6-9 Arizona product has increased that to 51.4 percent on 2.2 attempts through 17 games this season.
Another low-profile player, Charlotte’s Cody Martin, is second at 50.7 percent with an average of 2.3 attempts in his 29 games this season.
3. Leader in steals per game for players 6-10 and above (minimum ten games) – Kelly Olynyk (1.4 per game)
Although the 30-year-old has played the bare minimum number of games to be eligible, it’s actually no surprise he leads this category. Since arriving in Houston last season, Olynyk has taken advantage of extra responsibilities by averaging career highs in all major statistical categories.
Although the Canadian is currently recovering from a left knee sprain, he could be an interesting trade candidate for a contending team come the trade deadline.
4. Leader in field goal percentage for players 6-4 and under (min. ten field goal attempts per game) – Seth Curry (51.6 percent)
Although not necessarily a low-profile player these days, Seth Curry’s continued improvement still comes as a surprise to many. We know he’s always been a prolific shooter from deep, so much so that he currently has the second-highest three-point percentage of all time, but this stat is a bit of a shock.
What’s improved is his ability to take advantage of the deep ball is an improved all-around game. This has culminated into 11.8 field goal attempts per game and a career-high 16.1 points a night.