NBA Playoffs: 10 sleeper players to watch in Round 1
By Tom West
Josh Richardson
Similarly to Norman Powell, Josh Richardson has emerged as another steal of the second round in last year’s draft as the 40th overall pick. He also plays with buzzing energy at both ends of the floor, possessing great athleticism to throw down his fair share of poster dunks and playing with the intensity on defense to play opponents chest-to-chest whenever he switches on.
He’s been a real difference maker as of late, receiving far more playing time off the bench since late February. And over the last 20 games, Richardson couldn’t have ended his season with a hotter stroke from the field, shooting 50.6 percent overall and a sizzling hot 53.4 percent from three, making two treys a night.
When there’s no room to shoot, he can blow past guys off the dribble and make plays like this:
Along with the acquisition of Joe Johnson, who has done wonders for the Heat’s weak perimeter shooting and shot creation outside of Dwyane Wade, Richardson has become an integral part to some improved perimeter play. To make things even better for Miami, that includes some pesky defense and 0.9 blocks per game, too.
In a first round series against the Charlotte Hornets, the 3rd seed Heat are facing one of the NBA’s biggest surprises. The Hornets have stormed through the second half of the season with Kemba Walker leading the way, ranking in the top 10 for offensive and defensive efficiency, with excellent coaching from Steve Clifford.
Regardless of his limited experience, Richardson can be a key factor in this tough series.
Next: DeMarre Carroll