NBA Playoffs 2012: Underrated Role Players Who Will Shine in Second Round

You know, these NBA playoffs aren't all about LeBron James and Kevin Durant. Bench players matter, too.

Well, sort of. 

LeBron and Durant may be busy putting up 30 points per game en route to carrying their teams to the next round, I just like to give credit to the little guys, too. So, without further adieu—it's kind of hard to build these guys up—here's a look at the role players who will make a noticeable impact in the second round. 

To make things harder, I'm focusing on guys who are only getting 20 minutes or less in the first round. 

Louis Amundson, C, Indiana Pacers

That's right, Lou "freaking" Amundson.

The Heat love to get into the lane, and there's no question that there will be moments in Round 2 when Roy Hibbert gets into foul trouble.

When that's the case, Amundson, who has received just 7.8 minutes per game in Round 1, will have to play a big role. Every time I see him play, though, I'm pleasantly surprised.

He's not some athletic freak, but he runs the floor well for a big man and he works his butt off, hits the glass, and can finish in traffic. Amundson could easily be Round 2's Reggie Evans as he disrupts Miami's flow and comes up with huge rebounds.

That, and he's really good looking.

Greg Stiemsma, C, Boston Celtics

The Big Stiems has been a pleasant surprise for Boston fans this year, as he was given big minutes down the stretch of the season and passed the test.

The rookie is already establishing himself as one of the best shot blockers in the league (1.55 per game in just 13.9 minutes) and he can even knock down a mid-range jumper or two.

There's potential here for some funny but awesome playoff moments. 

Mo Williams, PG/SG, Los Angeles Clippers

The Clips have good guard depth and a guy named Chris Paul, so that's probably why Mo Williams has only gotten 20.3 minutes per in Round 1; but he can score in a hurry.

Don't be surprised if Williams' minutes pass Randy Foye's in Round 2. Williams has out-played Foye for the most, as he's scoring more and causing more turnovers.

Williams is the perfect choice to hit multiple big three-pointers against the Spurs. 

Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs team is full of role players, but Leonard, who is at 20 minutes per game in Round 1, is easily the best choice.

The young rookie from San Diego State simply does it all.

He's not a big scorer, but that's only because he doesn't take many shots. When he does, he can knock down three-pointers at a solid percentage.

What's more, he's extremely active on both ends of the floor. He's incredibly smart, rebounds well for his size, and he'll chip in a steal and a block per game. 

I would argue that Leonard is the most underrated player left in the playoffs. 

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