In the NBA, star players often dominate headlines, but it is crucial to recognize those who significantly impact their teams without the same level of fame. Identifying the most underrated players over the past five years involves a subjective examination, but the goal remains clear: to spotlight those unsung contributors who play vital roles in their teams' successes. To ensure a structured analysis, specific criteria were established, allowing for an extensive initial pool of candidates eligible for top-five recognition.

Royce O'Neale retains his fifth-place position from the previous year. This consistency may raise eyebrows regarding his underrated status, yet O'Neale's contributions are often overshadowed. Over the last five years, he has epitomized the profile of an ultra-low-usage wing known for his three-point shooting and defensive tenacity. Since the 2020-21 season, O'Neale has made 724 three-pointers at an impressive 38.8 percent conversion rate while maintaining a usage rate slightly above 12, a figure that marks him as one of the least utilized high-efficiency shooters. His unique ability to continue hitting shots while taking on the defensive assignments against the opposing team's best scorers highlights the significance of his role, which is often overlooked.

Isaiah Hartenstein's rise in profile has been notable since signing a lucrative three-year, $87 million contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Nevertheless, there remains a level of underappreciation for what he brings to the table. Hartenstein's contract essentially functions as a two-year deal, with Oklahoma City holding a team option that is unlikely to be exercised. Over the past five years, Hartenstein has showcased remarkable versatility, excelling in various aspects of the game—from setting ferocious screens to rebounding and shot-blocking. Statistically, he ranks among the top players in several categories, often eclipsed by more recognized names. His continued impact suggests that he deserves more acknowledgment in discussions around valuable players in the league.

Josh Hart often faces criticism for his deficiencies, particularly regarding his three-point shooting efficiency. While valid, these critiques fail to capture the essence of Hart's impact. Known for his relentless hustle, he often elevates the performance of his teams. Despite a challenging recent season with the New York Knicks, where circumstances minimized his contributions, Hart remains a crucial player. His ability to push the pace, crash the boards, and defend multiple positions is integral to his team's identity. Impressively, Hart has maintained a true shooting percentage of 58.7, placing him above league averages, and he sustains respectable defensive rebounding and assist rates alongside his offensive contributions.

Derrick White's inclusion in this list may prompt debate, especially considering his recent fringe All-NBA buzz. However, White has yet to secure an official All-Star or All-NBA acknowledgment. This absence signifies that he may still not be viewed through the lens of a conventional star, despite his prominent role with the Boston Celtics. Notably, White has excelled defensively while significantly improving his offensive capabilities. The statistics reflect his growth, demonstrating that he can perform at a high level even when key players like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are not on the floor with him. He has emerged as one of the top contributors in terms of Value Over Replacement Player (VORP) among non-All-Stars, showcasing his importance to his team.

Ivica Zubac’s defensive prowess has garnered attention, particularly this past season when he received recognition as a candidate for both Most Improved Player and Defensive Player of the Year. His defensive techniques and overall contributions have improved steadily. Although this past season marked a major breakthrough for Zubac, it is essential to recognize his gradual growth over the years. His ability to maintain high performance in defensive metrics speaks volumes about his skill set and value on the court. He stands out in several defensive metrics, proving to be a reliable rim protector and a key asset for the teams he represents.