Who are the NBA's Rising Stars?

Everyone knows who the superstars are—LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, Tim Duncan, and Dwight Howard, just to list a few.

Everyone also knows who the super-rookies are, such as Derrick Rose, OJ Mayo, and Greg Oden.

What about the under-the-radar players, who are making significant contributions for their teams and have taken their games to another level? Who are the NBA Rising Stars this season? Here are the ones that stand out:

Marquis Daniels (Indiana)

With Mike Dunleavy unavailable to start the season, the Pacers needed someone to fill the starting role. Not only has Marquis Daniels played well in that role, it may be his permanent job in Indiana.

The undrafted guard from Auburn got the starting position due to Dunleavy unable to return from his injury. But as a starter, Daniels is putting up great numbers and may retain his starting job for the future. He is averaging 15.9 ppg, while shooting 45.4% and is also grabbing 5.8 rpg. He also has the ability to drive to the basket to get easy scores. His defense isn’t too shabby either, although it still needs improvement to test the best guards.

If Dunleavy is unable to return to last season’s form, Daniels could become a star in Indiana next to Danny Granger.    

Al Thornton (Clippers)

The Clippers have very little to be excited about for the rest of the season, who are a horrid 4-16 and virtually out of playoff contention. One of the lone bright sports for the Clippers season is the improving play of Al Thornton.

Prior to the Clippers acquiring Zach Randolph, Thornton had been the Clippers’ go-to man. In only his second season, he is improved in virtually every statistical category. The 6’ 8” forward is averaging 16.5 ppg on a respectable 45.4-percent shooting, while contributing 5.3 rebounds, one block, and getting to the line almost five times per game.

Things can’t really get worse for the Clippers in the future, so expect Thornton and the rest of the team to make improvements going into the 2009-10 season.

Andris Biedrins (Golden State)

Many wondered if Biedrins could be the Warriors’ future center for years to come. Despite the Warriors putrid start, Biedrins appears to be justifying his six-year $63 million contract extension by putting up career numbers.

Last season, Biedrins averaged nearly a double-double at 10.5 ppg and 9.8 rpg, and provided energy on both ends of the floor. His biggest flaws, however, were his poor free throw shooting, few post moves, and lacked the ability to finish with the right hand. This season, however, he has shown some major improvements. Although he still needs work on free throws, he has developed more moves in the post and is better able to finish with his right hand.

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