10 underrated players primed to breakout in the NBA playoffs

Breakout Player #2: Kevin Huerter, Sacramento Kings

While they claim it was not a cost-cutting move, the offseason trade sending Kevin Huerter to the Kings was confusing then and looks downright befuddling now. It’s hard to believe that Huerter would’ve righted the ship in Atlanta alongside Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, but you can’t deny the massive offensive impact he’s had in Sacramento.

Huerter’s shot diet or volume of attempts hasn’t changed much from his time as a Hawk, but the context around him has let him unfurl his wings and soar on the perimeter. By playing next to a downhill threat like De’Aaron Fox and a playmaking center like Domantas Sabonis, Huerter has gotten more open looks from deep and delivered with gusto.

Of the 28 players in the NBA who’ve taken at least 400 threes this year, Huerter ranks fifth in three-point percentage. He’s had a sniper’s reputation for his entire career, but in Sacramento’s league-leading offense, he has more space and freedom than ever before to bomb from beyond the arc:

Although Huerter also contributes to the lackluster performance on defense for the Kings, he’s been either their third or fourth most important player in a season where they’ve jumped up the standings to second in the west. Once the playoffs hit, even more eyes will get a chance to see Huerter dart around screens and fire away with reckless abandon, which could lead to a breakout.