Unlikely Heroes

Who's this year's Steve Kerr?


We all know the usual gigabyte playoff suspects, Tim Duncan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Kevin Garnett, but what about the kilobyte role players who can alter a game or series?

In the late '90s and '03, it was Steve Kerr, last year, it was Cleveland Cavalier Daniel "Boobie" Gibson, in '06, Gary Payton stepped it up for the Heat, and in '05 (and '02, '01, '00, '95, and '94), it was SA Spur Robert Horry.

Here's a quick look at some potential '08 versions of these three:


1. Sam Cassell, PG, Boston Celtics

Old? Yes. Incapable? No! Much like Gary Payton for the '06 Heat, and Nick Van Exel for the '03 Mavs, Cassell provides some veteran stability and moxie that Rajan Rondo cannot offer. Along with James Posey, he brings some championship experience to this team. On top of that, he is unafraid of shooting the shot when it counts. While Van Exel failed to push the Mavs over the top in '03, Cassell has every quality to match Payton's output and impact. Why else does KG love him so much?

2. Morris Peterson, SF, New Orleans Hornets

He's a career 37% bomber. With perimeter defenses constantly focusing on Chris Paul and Peja Stojakovic, Peterson can run free in transition and even in the half-court. He has hit 109 (and counting) 3's this season in a very limited role in the Hornets offense. Like Robert Horry, Mo Pete can score in bunches. Down the stretch in a tight game, that matters.

3. Vladimir Radmanovic, SF, LA Lakers

Jordan Farmar is in the running too. But he cannot shoot like Radmanovic can. Similar to Peterson, Radmanovic will get looks in the Playoffs with defenses focusing on Kobe, Gasol, and Derek Fisher (another great clutch player). Of the supreme shooters in the Playoffs, Radmanovis and Peterson are flying under the radar on very good clubs. Other snipers like Kyle Korver (Utah), Manu Ginobili (SAS), and Ray Allen (Bos) will not sneak by defenses too often. Radmanovic can and will. Think Steve Kerr for the '03 Spurs. Comes off the bench and hits big, open shots.

4. Boris Diaw, F, Phoenix Suns

A lot of folks forget that Diaw once put up big minutes and numbers in the 2006 NBA Playoffs. With Amare Stoudemire injured, Diaw shouldered the load for the '06 Suns and played brilliantly. Since then, he has underperformed, but to his credit, he has never had the same opportunities he did then--not with Stoudemire back, Marion in the mix, Shaq on the block, and even Grant Hill spotting up. Things break down in the Playoffs and players like Diaw get will their chances.

5. Jarvis Hayes, G, Detroit Pistons

One cog in Detroit's excellent bench, Hayes often operates in the shadows. But just like Peterson, Radmanovic, and Kerr, he can catch fire from beyond the arc. In 15 mpg this year, he has had sensational moments when he gets good looks. What's more, he is unafraid to release. When plays break down and defenses swarm Prince, Wallace, and Billups, Hayes will also get some open looks. A 38% 3-pt shooter in '08, he will make them pay.

6. PJ Brown, F, Boston Celtics

The second Celtic on this list and the first defensive force. Brown found a roster spot for one reason: to defend the Tim Duncan of '08 Playoffs. Even though he may not oppose Tim Duncan in these Playoffs, Brown can expect to face a legitimate Western Big Man if the Celtics make the Playoffs. That is why he is in the Green and White, and quite frankly, why he is on this list. A lot like Brian Grant for the '98-00 Blazers (who shut down Karl Malone), Brown will step in and defend the best post player of the '08 Playoffs. With all of the Playoff battles, from his time with the Heat, Hornets, and Bulls, Brown is up to the challenge. He might even hit a few 15-footers to go along with it.

7. Robert Horry, F, SA Spurs

How can we leave him off? As long as he is healthy and on a winning team, Robert Horry will always make the list of potential Playoff heroes! With 9 seconds left and the game on the line, who else do you want floating around the perimeter? Over the years Big Shot Bob has lived up to his moniker, and like Kerr in '03, he still has his touch, even in the twilight of his career. Unlike in years past, Horry will not have to shoulder both defensive and offensive responsibilities now that the Spurs have Oberto, Thomas, and even Udoka to some extent. When on the floor, he can really pick his spots and focus on what he does best: hitting clutch 3's.