#playmaking

#playmaking

When he was drafted by San Jose, a large chunk of fans were incredulous that General Manager Mike Grier didn't take Matvei Michkov instead (ignorant of the reality that Michkov almost certainly didn't want to come to the Sharks, given that he said no to Washington and Arizona). When he spent his post-draft year with Boston College, NHL scouts focused on his linemates Ryan Leonard and Gabe Perreault instead, ignoring the reality that it was Smith's playmaking and play-driving ability carrying the line.

Bub Carrington may be one of the most overlooked players heading into next season for the Washington Wizards. The Pittsburgh product was drafted inside of the NBA Draft lottery by Washington in the 2024 NBA Draft after sending Deni Avdija to the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for Malcolm Brogdon and the pick that eventually landed the young guard in D.C. Carrington's arrival was overlooked by the team's loaded rookie class that feautured both Alex Sarr and Kyshawn George,

William Eklund's path to the San Jose Sharks has been one of the most closely watched prospect journeys in the league. Drafted 7th overall by San Jose in the 2021 NHL Draft, he came into the organization with huge expectations as a future face of the franchise. After spending time developing in Sweden with Djurgårdens IF and splitting a couple of seasons between the Barracuda and the Sharks, Eklund finally became a full-time NHLer in 2023-24, and he didn't disappoint.

Not only is Herro coming off a career year in which he made the All-Star Game, but he's the team's leading scorer, and paced them in assists as well. Miami's offense was already at a disadvantage with him. It has no top-tier creator. Herro is their best passer, which is a testament to his evolution, and also not ideal. Without him, the Heat's offense could be subject to complete and utter implosion.

There's a reason why a player like Trae Young is in a different conversation than someone like Cam Thomas or Tyler Herro. Say what you will about his flaws, but Young is undeniably among the top-tier, elite playmakers, if not, the absolute best. Over the past three seasons, he has averaged double-digit assists: 10.2 in 2022-23, 10.8 in 2023-24, and 11.6 in 2024-25. In fact, Young's most recent campaign saw him lead the league in assists, finally claiming the top spot after coming close in previous seasons.