Underrated players don't get all of the hooplah that the Lebrons and Kobes get, but they still are stars in the league. The 3 Most Underrated Athletes never get the recognition that they disserve but always play with heart and fire.
Number 3
Kevin Martin, Sacremento Kings
Kevin Martin is one of the league's bright young stars. Martin is one of the top scorers in the NBA averaging 24.6 points per game. In his last game this season on April 1, Martin had 50 points, 2 steals, and 3 assists. One reason for Kevin Martin's lack of recognition is that he's on a bad team.
Number 2
Thaddeus Young, Philadelphia 76ers
A product of Memphis Mitchell, Thaddeus Young stands at 6'8'' and weighs in at 220 lbs. Young is one of the best sophomores in the NBA. His season average has improved from last going from 8.2 to 15.3. Young also makes huge contributions to a 76er playoff team. Young certainly has a promising future.
Number 1
Joe Johnson, Atlanta Hawks
It could be his quiet, humble demeanor. It could be his substance over flash style of play. Whatever the reason, Joe Johnson is the most underrated player in the NBA. Don't think so? Take a look at his stats. Johnson averaged 21.4 ppg this season. Since Joe's arrival to Atlanta, the Hawks have improved their winning percentage each year. Johnson almost never takes a day off. Johnson, in 5 of his 8 seasons, Joe has played all 82 games. Joe Johnson is what many would call an all around player. He competes on both ends of the floor. Johnson may not be the most flashy player, but Joe is one of the most effective players.
Photos
Joe Johnson NBA.com http://i.cdn.turner.com/nba/nba/multimedia/photo_gallery/0904/heat.hawks.game1/images/hawks2.jpg
Kevin Martin NBA.com http://www.nba.com/kings/news/Garcia_and_Martin06.html
Thad Young NBA.com http://www.nba.com/media/summerleague2008/act_thaddeus_young.jpg
