These 3 Under-the-Radar NBA Stars Are Completely DOMINATING the Preseason!

Several athletes have exceeded expectations this year, creating buzz as the regular season approaches.

As the NBA preseason heats up, several teams and players are making their cases as contenders for the upcoming season. Among them, there are three players who have been pleasant surprises, showcasing their skills and turning heads with their impressive performances.

These players have come out of nowhere to become key contributors to their teams, some of whom are vying for a spot in the playoffs. With their outstanding play, they are making strong arguments for increased playing time and potential roles as starters. Here are three players who have emerged as pleasant surprises in the NBA preseason so far.

1. Jalen Pickett - Detroit Pistons

Jalen Pickett is one name many fans may be unfamiliar with, especially outside of Detroit. However, he has quickly become a darling among Pistons supporters with his impressive playmaking ability and scoring prowess.

Selected with the 42nd overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft, Pickett seemed destined for a backup role off the bench. Nonetheless, with his preseason numbers, he has forced coach Monty Williams to give him a closer look.

2. Kenneth Lofton Jr. - Memphis Grizzlies

Kenneth Lofton Jr. went undrafted in the 2022 NBA draft but has turned the tables with his dominant play in the preseason.

Lofton Jr.'s size and athleticism allow him to finish plays at the rim with power, while his three-point shooting is an added bonus for the Memphis Grizzlies. With Zach Randolph out for the season, Lofton Jr. is positioning himself to be the surprise answer to what was a glaring weakness for Memphis last year.

3. Isaiah Mobley - Cleveland Cavaliers

Another rookie that had an under-the-radar draft, Isaiah Mobley, is redefining people's expectations of what NBA prospects are supposed to look like.

Possessing a skill set tailored to fit the modern NBA, the young big man is a defender with rare aggression and underrated scoring chops that continue to impress coach J.B. Bickerstaff.

His impressive display in preseason action has undoubtedly laid the foundation for a larger role in the Cavaliers' rotation.