Back to Len Bias's OP, a comprehensive answer to this would require hours of research - to keep this fair, one would have to look at players in the 1960s and 50s too and for many of them it is hard to even find footage. Lou Tsioropoulos, for instance, was said to be p solid during his brief time in the NBA, but I cannot find any vids of him - if anyone here has seen him play (rollie?) I would really appreaciate some comments. There are tons of other players back from that less glamorous era that get less recognition than they deserve.
Personally, I am obviously more familiar with the 90s, that's when I really started watching the NBA. And although I feel a bit embarassed to say so now, I felt back then (and still do now) that Steve Kerr was an elite player who got few opportunities due to the team he was playing for. I always loved great shooters who are not selfish (such a rare combo) and had huge respect for him. It makes sense that he made a great coach (and it also makes sense that his team is both selfless and focused on 3point shooting lol)
Another Bulls player that I feel got less attention than he deserved (although he has earned a ****load of personal and team achievements) is Kukoc. Sixth man of the year in 1996 that's the only personal award as far as his NBA career is concerned.
I felt he was often snubbed. For instance, there was this playoffs game against the Knicks when Pippen went ballistic because Jackson wanted Kukoc to take the last shot. Pippen sat on the bench in protest, Kukoc paid no attention, made the shot. Kukoc never said a word about it afaik, nor did he have to.
He was an artist, not just a bball player.
TP to 2short for mentioning Scott Skiles. Great bballIQ, selfless player. A bit disappointed from his coaching career, I expected great things from him.
And now, to my real faves. It is players who got excluded from the NBA because of substances abuse and made a career in Greece. Mitch Wiggins (Andrew's father) was a hell of a scorer, it was a huge privilege to watch him play in Athens.
Carey Scurry left fond memories in Greece. Mainly for his impressive but also because he bite his coach at a brawl.
Finally, the player of my heart. Sixth Man of the year in 1988. rip