Los Angeles Lakers: Kyle Kuzma and two other Sixth Man of the Year candidates

Here are a few players who could win the Sixth Man of the Year award, including Kyle Kuzma of the Los Angeles Lakers.

While every young NBA hopeful dreams of becoming the most valuable player in the NBA, few ever truly realize that dream. LeBron James, Steph Curry, Kevin Durant, James Harden, Kobe Bryant, Russell Westbrook, Derrick Rose, and Giannis Antetokounmpo are some of the elite players that have been able to reach the pinnacle and claim the MVP trophy. Through hard work, late nights in the gym and sacrifice, they were able to make this dream a reality.

While the above players rightfully receive most if not all of the plaudits, there are unsung heroes on each of these teams who in the past their contributions can be oftentimes overlooked.

Not anymore.

The need for a deep bench has become extremely prevalent in the Golden State Warriors championship run over the last number of years, as well as the Toronto Raptors winning the Larry O’Brien trophy this year.

With bench players now being en vogue, it is time to put some respect on their names. Not only are some of the 6th men important to the team’s identity, but they can also very much be the difference between winning and losing, between 8th seed or 1st seed, and the difference between the Larry O’Brien Trophy and going home empty-handed.

Without the likes of Andre Iguodala for the Golden State Warriors and Fred VanVleet for the Toronto Raptors, it is quite possible that neither side would have won. With Iguodala even winning the Finals MVP on one occasion.

With all this being said, 6th men are now getting paid like borderline stars and their recognition is now being seen not just from front offices and teammates but also by the general NBA public.

Here are 3 players who should be considered favorites for the 6th man of the year.