Mark Williams has emerged as a foundational big man for the Charlotte Hornets, bringing much-needed rim protection and rebounding to a young roster. The 7-footer has flashed dominant stretches as a shot-blocker and lob finisher, developing solid chemistry with LaMelo Ball. Williams’ interior presence on both ends makes him one of the most important long-term pieces in Charlotte’s rebuilding plans.

Luke Kornet has quietly become a key depth piece for the powerhouse Boston Celtics, filling minutes behind Kristaps Porziņģis and Al Horford. Known for his unique “Kornet Contest” technique and high defensive IQ, Kornet provides quality minutes in the paint, contests shots without fouling, and plays within Boston’s offensive flow. His contributions often fly under the radar but are crucial for a deep playoff run.

Sam Merrill has taken on the role of sharpshooter for the Cleveland Cavaliers, lighting it up from beyond the arc off the bench. With elite spot-up shooting and a quick trigger, Merrill stretches defenses and provides a scoring spark in limited minutes. As Cleveland looks to surround its stars with floor spacers, Merrill’s value as a three-point specialist has soared this season.

A hidden gem on the Milwaukee Bucks’ bench, AJ Green has stepped into a larger role this season as a movement shooter and floor spacer. Known for his elite catch-and-shoot ability, Green complements stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard by keeping defenses honest. His off-ball movement and shooting efficiency make him a lethal threat in the Bucks’ half-court sets.

After a successful stint overseas, Guerschon Yabusele returned to the NBA and found a niche with the Philadelphia 76ers. His physicality, rebounding, and improved outside shot have helped him earn a rotation spot as a stretch forward. Yabusele brings energy and toughness to Philly’s frontcourt, offering valuable bench depth behind Joel Embiid and Tobias Harris.

Davion Mitchell joined the Miami Heat and quickly embraced the team’s defensive identity. Known for his on-ball pressure and relentless perimeter defense, Mitchell fits perfectly in Erik Spoelstra’s system. While his offensive game is still developing, his defensive intensity has made him a go-to stopper against opposing guards and a quintessential Heat Culture role player.

Ochai Agbaji has shown signs of breaking out with the Toronto Raptors, showcasing his athleticism, defensive upside, and improved shooting touch. Used primarily as a 3-and-D wing, Agbaji’s versatility allows him to guard multiple positions and run in transition. With the Raptors shifting toward youth development, Agbaji is a promising two-way wing to watch.

Quentin Grimes has embraced a fresh start with the Philadelphia 76ers, carving out a role as a defensive specialist and catch-and-shoot threat. With a high motor and strong perimeter defense, Grimes has become a reliable option to defend elite guards and wings. His ability to hit open threes and play tough defense makes him an ideal complementary piece alongside Philly’s stars.

Josh Giddey has revitalized his game with the Chicago Bulls, shifting into more of a hybrid point-forward role. While no longer a primary ball handler, Giddey’s court vision and rebounding remain elite for a guard his size. His versatility allows him to fit alongside Coby White and Nikola Vucevic, while giving the Bulls a connector who can initiate offense and keep the ball moving.

Since joining the Atlanta Hawks, Dyson Daniels has brought elite perimeter defense and positional versatility to a young, athletic roster. Daniels thrives guarding the league’s top guards and wings, showing flashes of offensive growth as a secondary playmaker. With his size and defensive instincts, Daniels is becoming a valuable two-way asset in Atlanta’s evolving rotation.