JaVale McGee and More Underachievers Who Will Become All-Stars
It's beginning to look like the Denver Nuggets knew exactly what they were doing when they moved Nene for the younger and less-proven JaVale McGee.
His three-and-a-half seasons with the Washington Wizards yielded mix results, but the opportunity to play with a better team appears to have set McGee on the right track. He's had two breakout games in Denver's first-round series against the Los Angeles Lakers, including a 21-point, 14-rebound outburst in the Nuggets Game 5 victory.
Given McGee's size and the rarity of centers who can both score and defend, he has a solid chance of earning All-Star honors in another year or two. As he matures, he could become an even more imposing presence in the paint.
Tyreke Evans—G/F, Sacramento Kings
Calling Evans an underachiever might be a bit harsh, but he hasn't improved as much as one might have expected after his absolutely stellar rookie campaign. He's still young enough that it's safe to assume his best days are ahead, but his All-Star fortunes may depend on what happens in Sacramento.
Evans has been asked to change positions on more than one occasion, and he's already dealt with his fair share of coaching transitions. A little stability would go a long way for this guy.
Jrue Holiday—PG, Philadelphia 76ers
Holiday is averaging 19 points in Philadelphia's first-round series against the Chicago Bulls, but his shooting has been entirely hit-or-miss (he went just 5-of-17 in the 76ers Game 5 loss). Still only 21 years old, Holiday is underachieving only in the sense that he's yet to reach his full potential.
As the 76ers continue to grow as a team, expect Holiday to shine as one of the league's best point guards. He has the size and well-rounded skill set to play like an All-Star and has shown flashes of actually doing so.
Josh Smith—PF, Atlanta Hawks
One of the most versatile defenders in the league, Smith has already had several seasons that make compelling cases for All-Star selection—including his most recent campaign. Despite his ability to impact games in a multitude of ways on both ends of the floor, he still settles far too often for ill-advised perimeter shots. With slightly better decision-making, Smith should be an All-Star in no time.
O.J. Mayo—SG, Memphis Grizzlies
Despite breaking into the NBA as a starter and averaging 18.5 points in his rookie season, Mayo has gone on to play a more limited sixth-man role off the bench. As his playing time decreased, so too did his shooting efficiency.
At the moment, Mayo doesn't look to be headed in the right direction, but there's no question the upside is still there. He's got great range and plenty of untapped offensive ability. If he can find his way on to a roster that will feature him more prominently, he could develop into an All-Star.
(Honorable Mention) J.R. Smith—SG, New York Knicks
J.R. Smith has the "underachiever" part down but doesn't stand the best chance of becoming an All-Star. Despite a world of talent, Smith still suffers from suspect decision-making in his eighth season. He can be an electric scorer, but questionable shot selection and inconsistent defense have detracted from what might otherwise be All-Star potential.
