NBA Draft 2016: Every team’s most underrated pick ever
By Brad Rowland
Los Angeles Clippers: DeAndre Jordan, No. 35 pick, 2008 NBA Draft
It would not be difficult to argue that DeAndre Jordan is the second-best NBA Draft pick in the history of the Clippers franchise. Now, how many people do you think would find his name in the recesses of their mind if asked to provide such an answer to that question?
Blake Griffin has been seen as the savior of the Clippers since arriving as the number one pick in the draft and Chris Paul is the best player in team history. Beyond that, the franchise did pick up quality players in the draft decades ago, including Bob McAdoo, Terry Cummings and Adrien Dantley. However, Jordan’s combination of pure value (as a second-round pick) and just how good he is push this over the top.
While Doc Rivers has been wildly guilty of overrating Jordan’s defensive impact, the rangy center is unquestionably an upper-echelon defensive player and his rebounding and athleticism are huge in that regard. Furthermore, Jordan is a highly underrated offensive player, finishing with fantastic efficiency and providing space without the benefit of a jump shot.
The Clippers haven’t had the best draft luck (hello, Shaun Livingston) or skill (hello, Darius Miles) but Jordan was a nice combination of both. He’s a monster and should be treated as such.
Next: Los Angeles Lakers