Josh Richardson's NBA Journey: How He Became a Valuable Role Player Today
When I first saw Josh Richardson step onto the court as a rookie back in 2015, I honestly didn’t envision the career arc he’d carve out. Drafted 40th overall by the Miami Heat, he wasn’t exactly the headline grabber—more of a second-round flyer. But watching his evolution reminds me of something I once read about another sport entirely: boxing. There was a line about Juan Manuel Márquez’s first draw in 2004 against Marco Antonio Barrera for the International Boxing Federation featherweight crown—a fight that, while not ending in a clear win, announced Márquez as a force. That’s Richardson in a nutshell. His journey hasn’t been about explosive stardom; it’s been a series of strategic, gritty battles that have molded him into one of the NBA’s most reliable role players today.
I remember covering the Heat during Richardson’s early days, and what stood out wasn’t his scoring—it was his defensive tenacity. He averaged just 6.6 points per game as a rookie, but his defensive rating hovered around 105, which for a young guard was impressive. Over the years, I’ve seen players come and go, but Richardson’s adaptability is what sets him apart. Think about it: he’s played for five teams since 2019, including the Philadelphia 76ers, Dallas Mavericks, Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs, and now the New Orleans Pelicans. That’s a lot of moving parts, and yet, he’s managed to refine his game with each stop. It’s like how Márquez adjusted his style after that 2004 draw, learning to counterpunch and build a legacy. Richardson didn’t have a breakout “fight,” but his consistency in filling gaps—whether it’s hitting corner threes or locking down opponents—has made him invaluable.
Let’s talk numbers, because as an analyst, I love digging into stats. In the 2022-23 season with the Spurs, Richardson put up 11.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, while shooting a respectable 38.4% from beyond the arc. Those aren’t All-Star numbers, but they’re solid, especially when you consider his defensive versatility. He’s often tasked with guarding multiple positions, and his steal rate of 1.5 per game last season shows his knack for disruption. I’ve always believed that role players like him are the glue of a team—they might not dominate headlines, but they’re the ones who swing close games. For instance, in a matchup against the Lakers earlier this year, he dropped 17 points off the bench and had two crucial steals in the fourth quarter. That’s the kind of impact that doesn’t always show up in highlight reels, but coaches and teammates notice.
From my perspective, Richardson’s value isn’t just in what he does on the court; it’s in his mindset. I’ve had chats with fellow journalists who cover the league, and we often agree that his professionalism stands out. In an era where players chase max contracts and social media fame, Richardson has embraced the grind without complaint. He’s not the flashy scorer like some of his peers, but he’s the guy you want in the trenches. Honestly, I think the NBA undervalues players like him until they’re in a playoff series and need someone to make the right read or take a charge. It’s similar to how boxing purishers appreciate Márquez’s technical prowess over knockouts—sometimes, the quiet contributions are what define a career.
Looking ahead, I’m bullish on Richardson’s role in New Orleans. With the Pelicans aiming for a deeper playoff run, his experience and two-way play could be a difference-maker. He’s not the star, but he’s the kind of piece that contenders covet. In my opinion, the league needs more players like him—guys who prioritize winning over individual accolades. So, if you’re a fan or an analyst sleeping on Josh Richardson, it’s time to wake up. His journey might not have started with a bang, but like that 2004 draw for Márquez, it’s built a foundation for lasting respect in the game.