Five Best Hidden Gems In the NBA

Everyone knows about LeBron James, Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade. They fill the stat sheet and dominate the highlights. But a basketball team can't have only superstars. It needs the guys who fill in the cracks, who wait for their chance then rise to the occasion. These are the five best players who are only known to their home crowd.

Nicolas Batum

While starting for playoff-bound Portland, Nicolas Batum makes an enormous impact on both ends of the court. The rookie uses his superior length and quickness to wreak havoc on the defensive end. And on offense, the French phenom is reliable from downtown and loves moving without the ball. He is the perfect compliment to Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge and makes defenses pay when he gets the chance. Batum is a key element to the Blazer's post-season success as he will match up with the best scorer on opposing teams. He has the ability to swing momentum with big dunks and clutch threes.

Roger Mason

Prior to this season, Roger Mason had only started 12 games in his career. With the Spurs, he has started 65 games and turned into a major factor in the Spurs' Championship blueprint. His scoring has increased three points a game, which cannot be underestimated. Mason has learned to be a facilitator with Parker, Duncan, and Ginobili while finding openings for himself to have an impact on the game. Some credit, undoubtedly goes to Gregg Popovich for Mason's improvement, but Mason has been a great addition for San Antonio.

Chris "Birdman" Andersen

The Nuggets were blasted for giving away Marcus Camby for less then his trading card is worth. But Chris Andersen has filled in off the bench to give the Nuggets an inside presence and a force of energy that the fans and management has to love. Not many people gave the "Birdman" (Birdzilla didn't catch on, unfortunately) much of a chance after his two-year ban from the NBA for drug use. But the Bird is back and flying around the court blocking shots and throwing down monster dunks.

Courtney Lee

Courtney Lee is another rookie who has made an immediate impact on a contending team. The Magic live by the three and Courtney Lee has helped keep the reaper out of Orlando. Lee ranks in the top 20 in three-point shooting and has great defensive instincts. Orlando has joined the east's elite this year and Lee has played a significant role, while playing at the competitive SG position.

Thaddeus Young

The 76ers were supposed to be a playoff team this year. Andre Iguodala and Elton Brand were supposed to be a dominating 1-2 punch. Thanks to Thaddeus Young, one of those is still true. Young is the only player on this list with a shot at breaking through to stardom. He has elevated his game on defense and crashes the offensive glass like an animal. It helps that he has more hops than a strong beer. Young is still living in Iguodala's shadow, but with Young in just his second year, he is emerging as a force in Philly and the next in line to be the man for the Sixers.