Ones that come to mind, not mentioned yet: 1. Ron Harper 2. Steve Kerr 3. Scott Brooks (sentimental) 4. Jason Terry 5. Dennis Johnson
Good question. Would a multiple all-star selection like Mutombo or Ben Wallace qualify? If someone played exactly like Mutombo, but only for 25 minutes a game instead of 35 minutes a game, would they be a "role player"?
Here's a good starting point: List of players with one or less All-Star appearance sorted by win shares. List of players with one or less All-Star appearance sorted by playoff win shares. Horace Grant, Horry, Fisher, Byron Scott, Hornacek, Thorpe, Sam Perkins, A.C. Green. Good list.
Mutombo and Pippen played roles. Pippen, one of the most dynamic players of all time, yes, a role player.
I'm going to be honest and serious for a moment. I had no idea hurry scored only 7000 points in his 15 year career. Would have assumed 15000 or so when players like Clifford Robinson and Eddie Johnson scored right at 20000. Hurry really REALLY coasted in the regular season.
By role player I will assume starter who has primary non-scoring function OR sixth-man type of guy who only has one major role (including scoring) off the bench. Rebounding starter: Love the Otis Thorpe mention. OT was just incredible for the Rockets, and as an added bonus, we stole him from Sacramento. Buck Williams was a nice player in this niche too, kind of like Charles Oakley too. Instant offense: Vinnie Johnson on those old Piston teams. He was called the microwave and his only mission was to come in and score in quick bunches from the bench.
