The Dirty Dozen - The NBA's most dependable role players (Round 1)

It seems like every sports web site, newspaper or television show is talking about "Power Rankings." Who are the top 10 guys at each position? Who are the MVP candidates?

I know it's a phase we all have to go through this time each year, but it still gets old.

So, to break the monotony, I've decided to do my own little power ranking. You won't see big name guys here. No All-Stars, either.

Instead, this list is about the unsung heroes. It consists of the top 12 role players in the league who don't get much recognition outside of their own locker rooms. However, they deserve some.

Without further ado, I give you the first four players in Round 1 of my "Dirty Dozen."

1. Jon Barry, Denver Nuggets

As a Pistons fan, I was sad to see Barry leave the Motor City for the Mile High city. For all the talk about turnovers per 48 minutes we hear out here in Michigan, we all know the truth -- this guy is a huge spark off the bench. He will give Denver quickness, hustle, and instant offense. Most importantly, Barry brings intensity. When the Nuggets need to get fired up, this is the guy they turn to.

2. Corliss Williamson, Detroit Pistons

Ok, so this is a name that some people know. He was the Sixth Man of the Year two years ago, and he really earned it. Williamson will come into a game and do whatever a coach asks him to do to help his team. He'll guard bigger players, he'll post up smaller players. When he lost playing time to Tayshaun Prince in last year's playoffs, he never said a word. He's a team player and he has his priorities set.

3. Earl Boykins, Denver Nuggets

This tiny terror (he stands all of 5' 5") has never averaged over nine points in his NBA career, but last season he showed that he can be a go-to guy. On numerous occasions, Boykins picked the Golden State Warriors up, put them on his back, and carried them to wins. He became a clutch performer and a fan favorite. Now helping to rebuild the Nugget backcourt, he'll have even more chances to prove himself as a leader.

4. Eric Snow, Philadelphia 76ers

How a guy can play so well, and still be so underrated, I'll never know. Snow plays an excellent "Robin" to Allen Iverson's "Batman." He plays smart with the ball (traditionally in the top 10 in assist vs. turnover ratio), and has put up solid, yet silent numbers. Averaging nearly 13 points and seven assists gets you more press if you're not sharing a backcourt with "the Answer." Snow hustles, hurries and helps... especially on defense.

This is Round 1. There are still eight more guys out there that belong on my own personal "All-Role Player" squad. Stay tuned for Round 2.