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The 2020-21 NBA season is witnessing multiple contenders in hot pursuit of the LA Lakers and the Larry O'Brien Trophy. From their cross-town rivals, the LA Clippers, to a new powerhouse in the East, the Brooklyn Nets, all teams have one goal this season and that is to win an NBA title. While the league is best known for its superstars, there are unsung heroes on each title-contending team who facilitate the team's stars.
5 players making an impact in title contenders this season
The NBA has been home to some legendary role players like 'Big Shot Bob' Robert Horry, who is one of the finest examples of a great role player. Fast forward to 2021, and the league is witnessing a new crop of players ready to make the sacrifice to win it all and be the proud owner of a championship ring on their finger at the end of the hard-fought season.
Below we take a look at five players making an impact on title contenders this season.
#5 Dennis Schroder (LA Lakers)
Acquiring Dennis Schroder in the offseason was one of the best moves by the LA Lakers' front office this campaign. Schroder has established himself as one of the best point guards in the league. The 27-year-old is hungry for his first NBA title and is going all out this season for the LA Lakers.
Dennis Schroder has a score-first mentality and can torch bench units with his offensive prowess. His production has steadily increased on the floor since his rookie season with the Atlanta Hawks. Coach Frank Vogel loves the energy he brings with him on both ends of the floor, even if his stats undersell the impact he's had this season.
In twenty-four games this season, Schroder is averaging 14.2 points, 4.4 assists, and 3.6 rebounds on 44% shooting from the floor. He will play a vital role in the LA Lakers title defense this season.
#4 Joe Harris (Brooklyn Nets)
Joe Harris has played a crucial role for the Brooklyn Nets this season and has solidified his place as a reliable scoring option behind the Nets' star-studded trio of James Harden, Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. Joe has been working on his game the past few campaigns, and his evolved shooting has put him in the limelight this season.
His consistent three-point shooting has earned him the trust of head coach Steve Nash, who has had nothing but praise for the 29-year-old. His stock in the NBA is trending upwards as he continues to play an important role on the team that is the firm favorite to win the NBA title. Harris is not only a key role player on offense, he is also extremely crucial on the defensive end for the Nets.
In twenty-five games this season, Harris is averaging 15.0 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.0 assists. He is shooting an efficient 52.2% from the floor, and a stellar 49.7% from beyond the arc.
#3 Nicolas Batum (LA Clippers)
Nicolas Batum has been on a roller coaster ride the last two seasons. His career spiraled in the 2019-2020 season with the Charlotte Hornets, but then in a twist of fate, he has now emerged as a high impact player for a top title contender in the LA Clippers.
The marriage has been a success for both sides as Batum has revived his career, and the LA Clippers have found the perfect role player to start alongside their top duo of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. Batum brings with him veteran experience from his time in the NBA and his time as an international player for the French basketball team.
He has played the game at the highest level and knows how to excel in high pressure moments. He has already impressed with a game-winning shot this season and is a key piece in the Clippers' quest for a title.
In twenty-four games this season, Batum is averaging 10.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists on an impressive 50% shooting from the field.
#2 Shake Milton (Philadelphia 76ers)
Shake Milton has emerged as one of the top scorers for the Philadelphia 76ers this campaign. The third-year NBA talent continues to raise his ceiling this season with marked improvement in his production from the floor. He has become the leader of the second unit in the 76ers lineup early into his career.
His ability to push the ball up the floor and create his own shot has added a new dimension to the 76ers offense. His offensive capabilities matched with Ben Simmons' defensive attributes bode well for their the 76ers aspirations this year. Coach Doc Rivers believes Milton will continue to make an impact on his team as the season unfolds.
In twenty-one games this season, Milton is averaging 14.1 points, 3.0 assists, and 1.9 rebounds in 24 minutes per game. He is shooting an impressive 45.2% from the field.
#1 Jordan Clarkson (Utah Jazz)
Jordan Clarkson has been touted as one of the top candidates for The Sixth Man of the Year award early in the season. He has earned a reputation as a sharpshooter and he does not shy away from letting it fly and knocking it down with high accuracy.
Clarkson has always played with confidence but has never been a reliable scorer off the bench. However, he has worked on his game and has marked a significant improvement in his shot selection. As a result, Jordan has turned into an efficient scorer. He has played a vital role in the Utah Jazz' stellar season so far and the team will be hopeful he can continue his great form.
He is currently the second-highest scorer for the Jazz, a testament to the leap he has taken this season. As things stand now, Clarkson is looking primed to make a huge impact in the postseason and help transform his side into a legitimate title contender.
In twenty-four games this season, Jordan is averaging 17.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.8 assists on 46.3% shooting from the field.
Guess the Lakers players!
