Respected sports publication Sports Illustrated has paid tribute to Oklahoma City Thunder big man Steven Adams, calling him one of the most underrated players in the NBA.
Adams has been a key man for the Thunder this year, forming a key partnership with Russell Westbrook.
And while Kevin Durant's departure for the Golden State Warriors meant that someone had to step up, Sports Illustrated's NBA writer Rob Mahoney is more-than impressed with how Adams has emerged as Westbrook's right hand man.
"Adams ensures that at least one train always runs on time," Mahoney writes
"Adams will get to his spot to screen or dive or carry out his specific responsibility within the Thunder offense. Opponents are shrugged off so casually that Adams appears to move around the floor unencumbered."
Adams has admitted himself that he's come a long way from the player who came out of Pittsburgh as 12th pick in the 2013 NBA draft.
But Mahoney believes the last two seasons have by far and away been his best year in terms of player development.
"Hooks and flip shots are comfortable for Adams, who is strong enough to keep his base, schooled to catch the ball in better position, and trusting in his touch in a way he never was previously."
"Adams has reached that comfort level with his hook shot and as a result, he shoots 48.4% in the high paint - the space within the lane but outside the restricted area - according to NBA.com.
"Even that modest success is transformative; opponents can deny Adams a great opportunity and still wind up surrendering a good one."
Unsurprisingly commenting on his change in look and his emergence as a cult hero for the Thunder, Mahoney was particularly complimentary about his developing skill set.
"His versatility stretches only so far as his role with the Thunder allows, and what it allows has lined up rather neatly with the skill set Adams has built for himself.
"It's proof of his progress that Adams is as distinct in game from his rookie self as he is in look."
Adams' Thunder are in a slightly precarious seventh spot on the Western Conference standings with a record of 35 wins and 25 losses.
They continue on their path to the NBA post-season with a trip away to the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday afternoon (NZ time).
Take a look at the entire Sports Illustrated article here.
Newshub.
