Most Underrated Player: Andres Biedrins

A couple years ago, I wrote that Jose Calderon was the NBA's most underrated player. After watching Golden State, I feel Biedrins is currently the most under-appreciated player in the NBA.

I never really believed that Biedrins would be a great player. He's tall and lanky, and has horrible form on his shot. But, when I watched him play, all he does is make plays. Golden State lost Friday night against the Suns when Biedrins twisted his ankle. If he remains in the game, Golden State wins that game.

Trying to explain Biedrins' impact is difficult because he lacks a traditional skill set. He's not a shooter, he's not a great back to the basket scorer, etc. He does not fit a mold. However, he has great instincts and timing and somehow he manages to always be where the ball is, which is a talent. He's a great rebounder and he moves well for a big guy, so he rebounds outside his own area. He has a great feel for the offensive boards, too.

There is a lot of hype for David Lee right now, and I suppose Biedrins is a similar type player - an energy-guy who does a lot of the things that are often overlooked for more spectacular or more obvious plays.