Millsap fans chant along: "Un-der-ra-ted! Un-der-ra-ted!"
The word is getting out about Paul Millsap.
Jazz fans have loved him since finding out he was a rebounding phenom and power forward from Louisiana Tech, home of their favorite former postal employee. They love him even more now that Carlos Boozer’s future in Utah is officially uncertain.
Jerry Sloan has loved him ever since he stepped on the court and busted his behind – along with anybody or anything that gets in his way – to get loose balls.
Jazz management loves the “Bargain from the Bayou” because he only makes about $17,000 a year – or the NBA equivalent of that low salary.
Now the hoops nation appears to be falling in love with his play, too.
Funny how totaling 32 points and 10 rebounds against Kevin Garnett and the Celtics and racking up a current-league-best 13 double-doubles in a row as Carlos Boozer’s temporary (for now, at least) replacement can get you noticed.
Columnist Ken Berger of CBS Sports took note. He just put Millsap at the top of his list of underrated players in the NBA. Click here for the story.
Jazz fans will like who he’s got at No. 5 as well – Ronnie Brewer, whom Berger says “could be a Bruce Bowen in the making – with better offensive upside.” Matt Harpring is an honorable mention underrated player.
Here’s the CBSSports.com writer’s All-Underrated team (Berger adds comments about each player on his website):
1. Paul Millsap, Jazz power forward
2. Kevin Martin, Kings shooting guard
3. Jason Maxiell, Pistons small forward
4. Carl Landry, Rockets power forward
5. Ronnie Brewer, Jazz shooting guard
6. Ramon Sessions, Bucks point guard
7. Luis Scola, Rockets power forward
8. Trevor Ariza, Lakers small forward
9. Matt Bonner, Spurs big man
10. Brandon Bass, Mavericks power forward


