5 Bench players who could have a massive impact for their teams in the 2021 NBA Playoffs

3) Jalen Brunson, Dallas Mavericks

Jalen Brunson

Jalen Brunson had a brilliant NBA regular season for the Dallas Mavericks, putting up 12 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists off the bench. Brunson missed out on last season's playoffs due to an injury but is set to get some major minutes this time around.

He had an impressive outing against the LA Clippers in game one, scoring 15 points. The diminutive point guard has provided the Mavericks with an injection of scoring and playmaking as part of the bench unit throughout the season. Head coach Rick Carlisle will have major expectations from him as the postseason progresses.

2) Rajon Rondo, LA Clippers

Los Angeles Clippers' Rajon Rondo

Rajon Rondo turned back the time in the 2020 NBA bubble, playing a substantial role in helping the LA Lakers raise banner No. 17. He chose to sign with the Atlanta Hawks in the offseason, which eventually led to a mid-season to LA Clippers.

Rondo ended the NBA regular season with just 5 points and 4 rebounds, but he has shown the capability of taking his game to the next level in the business end of the season.

The Clippers have acquired the former Boston Celtics man to emulate his 'Playoff Rondo' performances. Rondo didn't have a great game against the Mavericks in game one but expect him to be back to his usual best as the series progresses.

1) Jordan Clarkson, Utah Jazz

Utah Jazz's Jordan Clarkson

Jordan Clarkson is the outright favorite to win the NBA Sixth Man of the Year accolade, following a brilliant regular season that saw him average 18 points and 4 rebounds on 42% shooting. Despite Mike Conley and Donovan Mitchell going down at the tail end of the campaign, Clarkson's scoring prowess ensured that the Utah Jazz ended up as the NBA's best record and No.1 seed in the West.

Clarkson will now set his sights on the playoffs as the Utah Jazz attempt to win their first NBA Championship.

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