NBA 2020-21: 5 role players making an impact on title-contending teams

#3 Nicolas Batum (LA Clippers)

Nicolas Batum of the 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.

Batum silencing all the haters this year. (via @LAClippers) pic.twitter.com/PWjTImnWWq

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) February 6, 2021

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 of the Philadelphia 76ers controls the ball against Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics

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 of the 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.

Add Josh Hart to the list of those who believe Jordan Clarkson should win 6MOY 💯 pic.twitter.com/s2kyVHoktZ

— Jazz Nation (@JazzNationCP) February 8, 2021

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.