5 most underappreciated performers in the 2021 NBA Playoffs so far

#3 Reggie Jackson

Reggie Jackson (#1) of the LA Clippers reacts to a basket.

The LA Clippers' run in the 2021 NBA playoffs was very eventful. They managed to pull off inspiring comebacks but fell short in the conference finals. Reggie Jackson was at the heart of those comebacks, combining aggressive offense with intense defense to devastating effect.

Although much of the credit will go to Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, who have both been undoubtedly phenomenal, Jackson also played a crucial role in the Clippers' deep playoff run. He finished as the third-highest scorer, behind Leonard and George.

REGGIE JACKSON PUNCHES IT 💥 pic.twitter.com/LIFFgz7pGw

— ESPN (@espn) June 29, 2021

Jackson ended the 2021 NBA playoffs with an average of 17.8 points, 3.2 rebounds and 3.4 assists. It is arguably the best run he has had in the postseason during his 12-year NBA career.

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#2 Kevin Huerter

Kevin Huerter (#3) of the Atlanta Hawks

It wouldn't be fair to say that the Atlanta Hawks are still alive against the Milwaukee Bucks without acknowledging the efforts of Kevin Huerter. On nights when Trae Young has not been as productive, the young lad has stepped up to help his team.

Huerter has started only nine of the Atlanta Hawks' 17 games in the ongoing 2021 NBA playoffs. But he has been almost as effective as some of the regular starters in the team. In the absence of De'Andre Hunter, Huerter was given more responsibility in the team.

Although trailing 2-3 in the series 2-3 against the Bucks, the Atlanta Hawks cannot be ruled out just yet. With a player like Huerter on the court, the Hawks will fancy their chances of overhauling the deficit to reach the NBA Finals.

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#1 Deandre Ayton

Deandre Ayton (#22) of the Phoenix Suns celebrates in the final minutes against the LA Clippers.

The Phoenix Suns have cruised through the 2021 NBA playoffs, with Monty Williams leading the charge. Chris Paul was brought in during the 2020 off-season to lead the young team and has done a remarkable job.

The Phoenix Suns' success is more often attributed to the heroics of Paul and Devin Booker. While both players deserve to be recognized for their efforts, it should not come at the expense of Deandre Ayton, who also needs to be appreciated.

MONSTER game from Deandre Ayton to help the Suns go up 3-1 in the WCF 🔥 pic.twitter.com/mHzzMCtebd

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) June 27, 2021

Ayton took on Anthony Davis in the 2021 NBA playoffs first round and successfully restricted him in the paint while getting on the scoreboard at the other end.

Ayton did the same with Nikola Jokic and dominated Ivan Zubac in the Conference finals. He was also spotted communicating in defense and being as vocal as the veteran guard would have been.

Deandre Ayton is averaging 16.2 points and 11.8 rebounds in his debut NBA playoffs season. He is an invaluable member of the Phoenix Suns team, who are prepping for their NBA Finals bout.