As training camps approach around the NBA, it is only fitting to examine each team's updated rosters. Some franchises will debut the new season with a significantly altered appearance, while others will maintain a resemblance to their previous lineup.
In our thorough analysis of each team, we will identify the most underrated and overrated players for the 2024-25 NBA season out of the Miami Heat's rivals.
Boston Celtics
Underrated: Jrue Holiday
It is not particularly surprising that Jrue Holiday is identified as the most underrated player for the Boston Celtics. However, among the various transactions the Celtics executed this past season, the acquisition of Holiday tends to be overlooked. His contributions to the Celtics' offense and defense each game are significant and deserve acknowledgment.
His impact on the team's success in securing an NBA Championship this season, particularly during the NBA Finals where he faced a formidable Kyrie Irving, did not receive the recognition it warranted.
Overrated: Jayson Tatum
The Celtics are arguably the most skilled team in the NBA on paper. Identifying any deficiencies within their roster proves to be quite challenging. Nevertheless, one could argue that Jayson Tatum is among the most overrated players on the team.
His elite skill set is undeniable, yet there appears to be a gap in his ability to assume the role of a genuine superstar fully. Although he has secured his first championship, thereby alleviating some pressure, it was achieved alongside what many consider to be one of the most talented rosters in recent history. He is undoubtedly an excellent player, perhaps even a great one, but he has yet to reach the status of an all-time great or demonstrate a trajectory that suggests he will.
New York Knicks
Underrated: Donte DiVincenzo
Given the pivotal role that Donte DiVincenzo played for the New York Knicks during the recent NBA Playoffs, it is difficult to overlook his status as one of the most undervalued players on the team. Although he may not be among the most prominent names on the roster, his contributions were crucial during the most critical moments of the postseason. Notably, he ranked as the team's second-leading scorer throughout the playoffs.
DiVincenzo's status as the fourth or fifth-best player on the squad is quite remarkable, and this level of depth positions the Knicks as a genuine contender for the championship in the upcoming season.
Overrated: Julius Randle
Given the New York Knicks' ability to maintain their performance in Julius Randle's absence due to injury, one might question whether Randle is somewhat overrated. While he is undoubtedly a skilled player, his value appears to be less significant compared to several teammates. As he becomes eligible for a contract extension, it will soon be revealed how much the Knicks truly value his contributions. There exists a possibility that New York may decide to part ways with Randle before offering him an extension.
Milwaukee Bucks
Underrated: Bobby Portis
While the Milwaukee Bucks might entertain the idea of trading Bobby Portis, I firmly believe he is among the most undervalued players on their roster. His combination of size and athleticism is something that many teams in the league covet at the power forward position. Coming off the bench, Portis excels in his designated role.
Although Portis may not be regarded as a marquee player, his contribution to the Bucks is undeniable, especially as the team aims to reestablish itself as a contender for the championship this season.
Overrated: Gary Trent Jr.
There exists a prevailing sentiment throughout the league, particularly highlighted during his free-agent negotiations, that Gary Trent Jr. was regarded by his team as possessing greater value than the perception held by other teams. This discrepancy is a significant factor contributing to Trent's decision to accept a minimum contract to restore his standing within the league.
To some degree, Trent can be considered an overrated player, a notion underscored by the minimal interest he received during the free agency period. While he is recognized as a proficient shooter, his overall contributions as a player leave much to be desired.
Philadelphia 76ers
Underrated: Kelly Oubre Jr.
With the Philadelphia 76ers undergoing a significant roster transformation, they need to retain Kelly Oubre Jr. Despite not meeting expectations during his time with the Charlotte Hornets, he proved to be a valuable asset for the Sixers in the previous season.
Re-signing him would provide the necessary flexibility for the team as they prepare for the upcoming season. Given the limited recognition he has received across the league in recent years, Oubre Jr. should be regarded as one of the most underrated players in the NBA.
Overrated: Caleb Martin
In recent seasons, it appears that any mid-tier free agent departing from the Miami Heat has been perceived as an overrated player by their new fan base. Recently, this has applied to players such as Kendrick Nunn, Gabe Vincent, and to some degree, Max Strus.
One cannot help but speculate whether Caleb Martin might be the next individual to experience this phenomenon, having signed with the Philadelphia 76ers this past summer. It remains to be seen if Philadelphia can break this trend, but it is certainly a situation worth monitoring as the Sixers approach a crucial season.
Indiana Pacers
Underrated: Andrew Nembhard
The Indiana Pacers' journey to the Eastern Conference finals has brought significant attention to Andrew Nembhard's capabilities. Following a substantial contract extension this offseason, Nembhard has transitioned from being perceived as a charming underdog to a player with heightened expectations. As he prepares for the upcoming season, he will undoubtedly face increased scrutiny.
Nevertheless, the possibility that his peak performance is still ahead of him positions Nembhard as the most underrated player on the Pacers' roster. This perception, however, may evolve as the season progresses.
Overrated: Tyrese Haliburton
It may be a contentious assertion, but I will present this perspective: Tyrese Haliburton is arguably the most overrated player on the Indiana Pacers' roster as we approach the 2024-25 NBA season. Despite his prominent status, which includes selection for the Olympic team, his performance during critical moments for the Pacers left much to be desired.
While one might attribute this to injury, there was a noticeable inconsistency in Haliburton's play last season. Should this trend persist into the upcoming season, it would be difficult not to label Haliburton the most overrated player on the team. But another big season could also secure Haliburton's place among the best of the NBA's next generation.
Orlando Magic
Underrated: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
The Orlando Magic made one of the best signings of the offseason when they acquired Kentavious Caldwell-Pope via free agency. He checks many of the boxes that they needed in the backcourt and could be critical to the team's big step forward next season.
Because of the big-name talent he played with during his time with the Denver Nuggets, it's easy to see why KCP has to be considered one of the most underrated players in the league. He should give the Magic a huge boost this upcoming season.
Overrated: Franz Wagner
Franz Wagner has truly come onto the scene for the Orlando Magic over the past couple of seasons. He's emerged as one of the most important players on the team. But there are some that believe he could be considered one of the most overrated players in the league.
Due to the sizable contract extension he signed, Wagner is only going to be under a bigger microscope this season. And if he struggles in big moments, as he did in Game 7 against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the narrative of him being an overrated player is only going to spread.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Underrated: Darius Garland
Given the perception of Darius Garland as somewhat mismatched alongside Donovan Mitchell, it is not unreasonable to propose that he has developed into an undervalued asset for the team—particularly if one considers that he may not have fully realized his potential in the early stages of his career.
There is merit to this perspective, and it is hoped that he will further integrate with Mitchell this season, thereby dispelling the doubts of his critics. Garland's continued progression and demonstration of his value would represent a compelling narrative within the Eastern Conference.
Overrated: Jarrett Allen
Despite the considerable talent within their core, I harbor reservations regarding Jarrett Allen's status as a foundational element for the Cleveland Cavaliers. While Allen is undeniably a commendable player, I question the long-term viability of pairing him with Evan Mobley.
This concern is amplified by the team's pursuit of alternative strategies to enhance their roster and elevate their competitiveness in the Eastern Conference. Given Cleveland's apparent reluctance to entertain trade discussions involving him, I find myself contemplating whether he may be somewhat overrated.
Atlanta Hawks
Underrated: Jalen Johnson
Should he maintain the progress in his performance that many anticipate, Jalen Johnson is poised to gain increasing recognition throughout the league in the coming year. As a formidable two-way player, Johnson experienced a significant breakthrough season with the Atlanta Hawks last year. He is expected to develop his skills further and should be regarded as a crucial foundational element as the team shifts towards a new trajectory.
Overrated: Trae Young
I have a different opinion about Trae Young's current trade value, but I must admit that he might be somewhat overrated at this point in his career. Despite his impressive offensive skills, he has struggled to turn his individual performances into wins for the Atlanta Hawks.
It's concerning that the team hasn't shown much improvement since adding Dejounte Murray. It will be interesting to see how the Hawks handle Young in the future, especially now that it's clear they no longer see him as the franchise player.
