I don’t think it’s you are misinterpreting or even you have anything to do with it to be fair mate .A few comments in reply.
First, I'm not sure that you are disagreeing with me. I said that these types of players can move to a quality team and play a role for their coach, and that is exactly what they did.
Second, if people mean they are "not stars", then why don't they say so? How can I interpret a comment that a player is a "reserve grader at best" as meaning that he is not a star? It is pretty obvious that the types of players we are discussing are not "stars". I don't think that is what they mean at all.
Third, I don't know how you define "passenger" but it is a bit harsh to describe Madden's contribution that way. He scored two tries and had one try assist; ie, he had a hand in three of their six tries.
I think people speak in hyperbole and emotion , and are quick tot grow out “he’s shit” , or “he sux” or whatever generalisation . When the fact is if they’re playing nrl they’re in like top 1-5% of of players in the world at this sport .
Thats all I was saying mate .