Fansided

5 underrated NBA rookies to watch for in 2014

By Evan Massey

Mar 23, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; Wichita State Shockers forward Cleanthony Early (11) reacts against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half in the third round of the 2014 NCAA Men
Mar 23, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; Wichita State Shockers forward Cleanthony Early (11) reacts against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half in the third round of the 2014 NCAA Men /
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Mar 27, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Louisville Cardinals guard Russ Smith at a press conference during practice for the midwest regional of the 2014 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 27, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Louisville Cardinals guard Russ Smith at a press conference during practice for the midwest regional of the 2014 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Russ Smith, New Orleans Pelicans

New Orleans selected Smith with the 47th overall pick in the 2014 draft, and they are excited about the future potential that he holds. On the outside looking in, it appears that he will be battling for playing time with guards Austin Rivers and Jimmer Fredette. Both Fredette and Rivers will be given the nod over Smith to start the season, but neither player has played well throughout their careers to this point in time.

Smith’s ability to create his own shot and make plays for his teammates is what will end up getting him on the floor. The Pelicans are going to be needing some playmaking off of their bench, and Smith can bring that along with great scoring abilities each night. It will be very interesting to see what his role is early on in the year, but if Rivers and Fredette don’t start the season strong, it might not take too long.

Last season with the Louisville Cardinals, Smith ended up averaging 18.2 points, 4.6 assists, and 2.0 steals per game. He is undersized to play the shooting guard position, but could play some minutes if needed. The Pelicans lost backup point guard Brian Roberts in free agency this past offseason, and Smith could very well end up forcing his way onto the floor in that role.

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