In the dynamic landscape of the NBA, star players often take center stage. However, a deeper appreciation is warranted for those athletes who play vital roles without the same level of recognition. Identifying the most underrated players in the league over the past five years is subjective and inherently imperfect. This analysis aims to highlight those consistently relied upon for their contributions, despite lacking the traditional star accolades.

Royce O'Neale retains his fifth-place ranking from last year in this exercise. While some may joke that his consecutive top-five placements render him no longer underrated, O'Neale's contributions remain critical. Throughout the past five seasons, O'Neale has established himself as a prime example of a low-usage wing who excels at three-point shooting and defensive efforts. Since the 2020-21 season, he has made 724 three-pointers at a remarkable 38.8% efficiency while maintaining a usage rate just above 12%. This statistic places him at the bottom of usage rates among players with similar shooting volume and efficiency, emphasizing the significance of his skill set in a team context. O'Neale's ability to contribute as a shooter while defending the opposition’s primary scorers has proven invaluable, yet often goes unrecognized.

Isaiah Hartenstein, who recently joined the Oklahoma City Thunder on a three-year, $87 million contract, has made his mark as one of the most well-rounded big men in the league. His diverse skill set includes effective screening, rebounding, shot-blocking, and facilitating plays from the post. Despite not yet receiving an All-Defensive selection, Hartenstein ranks highly in Value Over Replacement Player (VORP) among players averaging at least 20 minutes per game without an All-Star nomination. His statistical impact, aligning closely with that of elite players like Anthony Davis, showcases his ability to influence games significantly. Despite playing in two major markets, his contributions remain undervalued in public discourse.

Josh Hart has faced considerable criticism for his inconsistent three-point shooting, a flaw that allows opposing defenses to exploit matchups. Nevertheless, his relentless hustle contributes positively to his teams, making them more competitive when he is on the floor. This past season indicated some challenges due to his role alongside players who struggled offensively, yet his abilities in rebounding, pushing the pace, and defending multiple positions are vital. Despite the fair critiques of his long-range shooting, Hart’s overall efficiency, reflected in a true shooting percentage above league average, underscores his significance. He joins the ranks of elite players like Bam Adebayo, Luka Dončić, and Nikola Jokić in maintaining high productivity while also contributing defensively.

Derrick White's inclusion at No. 2 on this list may surprise some, especially given his recent recognition as a fringe All-NBA candidate. Nonetheless, White remains overlooked in terms of public perception, lacking both All-NBA and All-Star accolades. His transformation over recent years from being primarily known for his defensive skills to becoming a versatile offensive player is notable. White has significantly improved his decision-making, three-point shooting, and playmaking abilities. His performance independent of star teammates like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown highlights his impact. He leads all non-All-Stars in VORP since 2020-21, establishing him as a key player in the league.

Ivica Zubac's growth culminated in consideration for the Most Improved Player and Defensive Player of the Year awards last season. Initially, his rise was less dramatic, focusing on refining his defensive game and expanding his offensive repertoire. Zubac's impressive defensive performance has consistently positioned him among the top players in rim points saved per 100 possessions. His recent breakout showcases his ability to impact games significantly, reinforcing his status as an underrated player. Only a select few have matched his statistical thresholds over the last five years, a testament to his unique contributions in an evolving NBA.