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The 2021 NBA Playoffs were filled with some of the most thrilling basketball games since the league was forced to shut down due to the pandemic. As star-studded NBA teams clashed in postseason matches, the supporting cast brought their A-game to the table too.
These high-energy games were full of heart-stopping plays but also witnessed many gut-wrenching injuries. Several teams played with their star players either sitting out due to an injury or not playing at their full potential.
5 role players that stepped up during the 2021 NBA Playoffs
While many key players faced injuries in the NBA Playoffs, role players rose to the occasion and proved their might on the court. They made the most of the extra minutes afforded to them and rose to the occasion when their teams were desperate for help.
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On that note, we look at the five role players that impressed the most during the 2021 NBA Playoffs with their performances. These players weren't touted as the saviors of their franchises or as wonder draft picks, these were the products of humble beginnings and hard work.
#5 Reggie Jackson
Despite the LA Clippers losing to the Phoenix Suns, no one can deny the greatness that Reggie Jackson showcased during the 2021 NBA Playoffs. In Game 5 of the series against the Suns, Jackson scored a whopping 23 points, including four three-pointers.
The 31-year-old point guard played with a flare uncommon amongst role-playing athletes. He averaged 17.8 points throughout the series, becoming a constant worry for his opponents.
Over the years, Reggie Jackson has built up a fearsome arsenal of plays. He can shoot a step-back three, whiz past guards with his fancy handles, or dunk over bigger players. The 2021 NBA Playoffs were a showcase ground for Jackson, who provided much-needed support to key players Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
#4 Seth Curry
Even though Seth Curry is technically a role player, he is amongst the best shooters in the NBA right now. Being the brother of a superstar and perhaps the greatest shooter of all time - Steph Curry - must not be easy on this 30-year-old guard. Still, the constant pressure of being compared to his brother has not defeated Seth's will.
In a show of his own skill, Seth Curry put up an awe-inspiring performance during the 2021 NBA Playoffs. In a season where Ben Simmons was constantly struggling to find his groove, Curry rose to the occasion and scored like a hound unleashed upon prey. He averaged 18.8 points through the 12 games he played in the postseason and shot 50.6% from beyond the arc.
Also Read: What is Seth’s Current Contract?
#3 Jae Crowder
Jae Crowder averaged an impressive 10.8 points per game in his 22 appearances during the 2021 NBA Playoffs. He also averaged an astounding 6.1 rebounds per game. Crowder supported Devin Booker in the Phoenix Suns' first-round series against the LA Lakers after Chris Paul's injury.
The Suns forward played exceptional defense in the NBA Playoffs at crucial moments. He was able to defend the likes of LeBron James and Anthony Davis to guide his team to a 4-2 win in the first playoff round. In the finals against the Milwaukee Bucks, Crowder averaged 11.7 points and 8.5 rebounds.
#2 Kevin Huerter
In a performance reminiscent of Steve Kerr's during his Chicago Bulls career, Kevin Huerter was a threat to opponents all over the court. His ability to shoot three-pointers off a dribble or pass, combined with his ability to drive in and split the defense, was a treat to watch. It's no surprise that Kevin Huerter averaged an impressive 11.1 points in his NBA Playoffs appearances.
Huerter was never recognized as a great defender but he held his own while guarding opposing wings. He stepped up his game following De'Andre Hunter's injury and was arguably the Atlanta Hawks' best perimeter defender in the 2021 NBA Playoffs.
#1 Brook Lopez
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton are undoubtedly the Milwaukee Bucks' two best players right now. Having said that, it would have been impossible for the Bucks to win the NBA title without Brook Lopez.
Lopez is an exceptional support player. The 7'0 ft center averaged 13 points in his 23 NBA playoffs matches. During Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals, Lopez scored 33 points against the Atlanta Hawks to give the Bucks the series lead and eventually a ticket to the finals.
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