The NBA’s path to a championship isn’t just paved with superstars; it’s meticulously built on the backs of crucial complementary pieces, especially the often-overlooked ‘No. 4 option’ in a starting lineup. This comprehensive analysis dives into how these players, from defensive anchors to surprising offensive sparks, define team chemistry and often separate contenders from pretenders, featuring unexpected names like rookie phenom Cooper Flagg.
In the high-stakes world of NBA basketball, headlines are usually dominated by the glittering performances of superstars and the explosive dynamics of co-stars. Yet, any true basketball connoisseur knows that a team’s championship aspirations often hinge on the contributions of its less celebrated, but equally vital, components. Among these, the No. 4 option in a starting lineup stands out as a critical architect of synergy and a linchpin of overall team success.
As the league evolves, the importance of a cohesive five-man unit, where each player understands and excels in their specific role, has never been more paramount. This isn’t merely about individual talent; it’s about the chemistry that binds a roster together, allowing the sum to be greater than its parts. The ability of a No. 4 option to complement the team’s primary offensive and defensive engines can be the difference between a deep playoff run and an early exit.
Defining the Role: More Than Just a Supporting Cast Member
A No. 4 option is a player whose impact far exceeds their typical stat line. They are generally not the team’s primary scorer or playmaker, but their presence is undeniable in every meaningful possession. The ideal No. 4 is a multi-dimensional talent who:
- Is too skilled to ever be relegated to the bench.
- Complements the top three options, filling gaps rather than demanding touches.
- Excels on the defensive end, often guarding multiple positions.
- Can occasionally erupt for 20 points, but prioritizes consistent defense and unselfish play.
- Provides immense value relative to their contract, a factor made increasingly complex by the NBA’s evolving salary restrictions and the punitive second apron.
The financial landscape of the modern NBA means teams cannot afford to overpay for a one-dimensional player in this role. The recent championship runs of teams like the Thunder have underscored that while depth is critical, the cohesion of the starting five, and particularly the efficiency of its 4th and 5th options, often draws the clearest line between true contenders and those merely pretending.
The Best of the Best: Top 5 No. 4 Options Shaping the League
Here’s a look at the players currently excelling as the NBA’s premier No. 4 options, according to recent rankings, demonstrating a perfect blend of skill and fit within their respective teams.
1. OG Anunoby, New York Knicks
OG Anunoby is the epitome of a high-impact, versatile No. 4. Despite his substantial five-year, $212.5 million contract, which is weighty for a fourth option, Anunoby consistently earns his keep through exceptional two-way play. His ability to defend all five positions and step into a more prominent offensive role when injuries struck proved invaluable for the Knicks, helping them reach the Eastern Conference finals. During a 20-game stretch last regular season, Anunoby averaged 24 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists on remarkable 49/42/84 shooting splits, adding 2.7 blocks and steals per game. This multifaceted performance highlights his capability to be interchangeable with a third option like Mikal Bridges and elevates New York’s competitive edge.
2. Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers
A former All-Star in 2022, Jarrett Allen remains one of the league’s most effective role-playing centers. He consistently delivers a nightly double-double, averaging 15 points (on 66.3% shooting) and 10.2 rebounds over the past four seasons. His defensive synergy with Evan Mobley forms one of the most formidable frontcourts in the league. Together, they allowed just 110.3 points per 100 meaningful possessions, while simultaneously driving an offense that yielded 121.7 points per 100 non-garbage possessions, a rate that would have led the league, according to Cleaning the Glass. Allen’s low-usage, high-efficiency play—excelling as a rim-runner and protector without needing plays called for him—makes him an ideal No. 4.
3. Cam Johnson, Denver Nuggets
The Denver Nuggets’ strategic acquisition of Cam Johnson in a trade for Michael Porter Jr. showcases an understanding of the No. 4 option’s importance. Johnson’s $21.1 million salary is more aligned with a complementary player, and his game perfectly fits the Nuggets’ championship aspirations. As a superior connector and defender compared to Porter, Johnson willingly defers to stars like Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon. His 39.2% career shooting on 5.9 three-point attempts per game is not far off Porter’s numbers, but his basketball IQ and defensive contributions make him a better fit for a team with the NBA’s second-best title odds, trailing only the defending champion Thunder.
4. Cooper Flagg, Dallas Mavericks
Perhaps the most intriguing and surprising inclusion on this list is Cooper Flagg, the Dallas Mavericks’ No. 1 overall draft pick. While it’s uncommon for a top selection to start as a fourth option, the Mavericks plan to ease Flagg into the season behind veterans Anthony Davis, Klay Thompson, and D’Angelo Russell. Flagg, who graduated early from high school and dominated college basketball at just 18 years old, possesses the raw talent to become a first option in the league very soon. Widely projected by ESPN and other major outlets as the top prospect in the 2025 NBA Draft, his presence immediately elevates Dallas into a Western Conference playoff contender, even as he learns the ropes. His winning mentality and comprehensive skill set make him uniquely dangerous, both as a future star and a current connective piece.
5. Jalen Suggs, Orlando Magic
The Orlando Magic’s brilliant roster construction, particularly the acquisition of Desmond Bane as their third option, has allowed Jalen Suggs to slide into a role where his two-way skill set perfectly shines as a No. 4. Suggs, an All-Defensive second-team selection in 2023-24, is a dependable 3-and-D player who shot 40% on three-pointers during that healthy season. While his career has been hampered by injuries, missing 117 games over four years, his return to health is crucial. With Bane absorbing more offensive responsibility, Suggs can focus on his strengths, providing tenacious perimeter defense and timely scoring for a team on the cusp of contention.
The Kings’ Conundrum: A Top Lineup, a Mid-Tier No. 4?
Interestingly, the discussion around No. 4 options brings up a fascinating point regarding the Sacramento Kings. Early in the 2024-25 season, the Kings’ starting lineup of De’Aaron Fox, Kevin Huerter, DeMar DeRozan, Keegan Murray, and Domantas Sabonis was ranked as the best in the NBA, boasting an impressive 24.0 net rating. This unit also led the league in defensive rating (97.7) and ranked fifth in offensive rating (121.7), according to NBA advanced stats.
However, in the recent power rankings for No. 4 options, Keegan Murray was listed at 23rd overall. This stark contrast highlights a crucial aspect of lineup construction: individual ranking within a role doesn’t always reflect overall lineup effectiveness. Murray’s ability to seamlessly fit into his role, even if not individually rated among the top-tier No. 4s, allows the collective unit to thrive. His unselfish play, combined with the talents of Fox, Sabonis, Huerter, and the impactful offseason addition of DeRozan, has created a formidable force that defies individual player rankings and emphasizes the power of synergy.
The Ever-Evolving Starting Five: A Look Back and Forward
The concept of starting lineup power rankings isn’t new. A look back to the 2012-13 season, for instance, saw the Los Angeles Lakers ranked first, featuring names like Steve Nash and Kobe Bryant, while the Kings were a lowly 27th. This historical context underscores how team compositions, player roles, and strategic priorities constantly evolve in the NBA. From the “Big Three” era to the current emphasis on versatility and two-way players, the definition of a critical “role player” has shifted.
Ultimately, the No. 4 option will continue to be an underappreciated yet indispensable piece in the complex puzzle of championship contention. Their ability to deliver consistent defense, opportunistic scoring, and seamless integration into the team’s hierarchy often proves decisive when the stakes are highest.
Honorable Mentions and Beyond
Beyond the top five, several other players embody the critical role of the No. 4 option, making significant contributions to their teams:
- Dyson Daniels, Atlanta Hawks
- Lu Dort, Oklahoma City Thunder
- Jaden McDaniels, Minnesota Timberwolves
- Jabari Smith Jr., Houston Rockets
These players, along with others further down the rankings, demonstrate that even without superstar status, a strong performance in a complementary role can be the bedrock upon which successful NBA franchises are built.
