Every season in the NBA, a team will have a player that surprises everyone. This is what people like to call a “secret weapon.” Here is a list of every NBA team’s “Secret Weapon” coming into the 2023-2024 NBA season.
Boston Celtics: Derrick White
Last season, Derrick White became a fan favorite in Boston. Ever since he was drafted in 2018, White has been one of the most solid role players in the league. After getting traded to the Celtics, his role was increased bit by bit, especially in the 2023 Playoffs. Here, White went on a tear averaging 13 points with two rebounds, three assists, and one block per game.
Not to mention his crazy buzzer-beater against the Miami Heat. Just a few days ago now, it was announced that Derrick White will be starting for the Celtics in the new season. Even though he will start now, I still consider Derrick White to be the Celtic’s secret weapon.
Philadelphia 76ers: Tyrese Maxey
Tyrese Maxey is the third-best player on the 76er’s roster. This statement shouldn’t be considered a hot take, in my opinion. Now calling the third option for a team a secret weapon could be considered questionable, but I disagree.
I think that for a young, up-and-coming star to be playing with two (maybe only one by the start of the season), MVPs puts Maxey in the “secret weapon” category. Maxey has been a great addition for the 76ers for his entire tenure, and his skills are only getting better. I could see him being the second option for Philly once Harden leaves, but for now, he is their secret weapon.
Toronto Raptors: Jalen McDaniels
Jalen McDaniels has only been in the league for a few years now, but his time in the league has shown that he has the potential to be a solid role player. During his time in Charlotte, he was getting some consistent playing time but was then traded to Philadelphia at the trade deadline.
He didn’t seem to play much in Philly but, this summer, McDaniels signed a contract with the Raptors. Coming off of a season where he was scoring just under 10 points per game with around four rebounds and one steal, a fresh start on this rebuilding Toronto team could help McDaniels make that next step.
Brooklyn Nets: Dennis Smith Jr.
Dennis Smith Jr. is back. After his career seemed to be slowing down due to injuries, Dennis Smith Jr. is having a come-back. While he hasn’t been able to find his 2018 level of play, he has still been able to contribute to his teams.
This revitalization started back in the 2021/22 season with the Portland Trail Blazers and he has been shipped around a few times since then. This summer he landed in Brooklyn where he is surrounded by a young and hungry team. Smith Jr. can use this opportunity to prove that he still has what it takes to be on an NBA roster.
New York Knicks: Immanuel Quickley
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I have been saying that Immanuel Quickley is not only the most underrated player on the Knicks but one of the most underrated players in the NBA. Quickley quickly became a constant contributor for New York when he was drafted a few years ago, and he hasn’t stopped developing.
Last season, Quickley was averaging just under 15 points per game with four rebounds and four assists. The Knicks are working their way up to becoming a threat in the playoffs and Immanuel Quickley is a going to be a surprisingly important piece to this puzzle.
