The NBA playoffs are the true proving ground for greatness. While regular season success builds stars, it’s in the postseason that legends are made and legacies are solidified. In this multi-part series, we break down some of the most impactful and iconic playoff performers in NBA history. Here’s Part One, counting down from 10 to 6.
10. Kobe Bryant – Five-Time NBA Champion, Two-Time Finals MVP
Kobe Bryant began his postseason legacy as the explosive sidekick to Shaquille O’Neal, forming one of the most dominant duos the league has ever seen. During the Lakers’ three-peat from 2000 to 2002, Bryant posted impressive playoff averages of 25.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game — production that far exceeded the typical “Robin” role.
Photo Cred: CNN
After O’Neal’s departure, Kobe emerged as the undisputed leader of the Lakers. In nine playoff campaigns from 2003 onward, he raised his game even further, averaging 28.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per contest. He led Los Angeles to two more championships in 2009 and 2010, earning Finals MVP honors each time. With five rings and countless clutch moments, Bryant’s legacy is etched in postseason excellence.
9. Stephen Curry – Four-Time NBA Champion, 2022 Finals MVP
Stephen Curry changed the way basketball is played. His unmatched shooting range and off-ball movement stretched defenses to their limits and created an entirely new offensive ecosystem. Though stats only tell part of the story, they still underscore his brilliance.
Through nine playoff appearances, Curry has averaged 27.0 points, 6.2 assists, 5.3 rebounds, 4.2 made threes, and 1.5 steals per game, while maintaining a near-40% mark from deep. No other player with at least 1,000 playoff minutes matches that statistical combination. Curry’s presence alone disrupted opposing game plans, and his ability to shine on the biggest stage — culminating in a Finals MVP in 2022 — secures his place among the all-time great postseason performers.
8. Bill Russell – 11-Time NBA Champion
Bill Russell’s playoff résumé is unmatched in one category: winning. With 11 titles in 13 seasons, Russell set a standard for dominance that has yet to be approached. As the foundation of the Celtics’ dynasty, he brought leadership, tenacity, and elite defense to every postseason battle.
Photo Cred: NBA
Between 1957 and 1969, Russell averaged 24.9 rebounds, 16.2 points, and 4.7 assists per game in the playoffs. Though blocks weren’t officially recorded during his era, contemporaries and historians agree he was the premier rim protector of his time. Russell wasn’t just a statistical force — he was a culture-setter, the heartbeat of a team that defined a generation of winning.
7. Tim Duncan – Five-Time NBA Champion, Three-Time Finals MVP
Nicknamed “The Big Fundamental,” Tim Duncan’s playoff success was built on consistency and versatility. For two decades, he was the San Antonio Spurs’ anchor, delivering elite two-way production in nearly every postseason run.
Duncan appeared in 72 playoff games with at least 20 points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks — second only to Shaquille O’Neal in that category. He averaged 20.6 points, 11.4 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 2.3 blocks across his playoff career, with 15 postseason runs of at least 100 points, 50 rebounds, and 10 blocks — more than any player in history. Year after year, Duncan was the model of playoff dependability, guiding the Spurs to five championships with quiet dominance.
6. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – Six-Time NBA Champion, Two-Time Finals MVP
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s playoff career spanned two decades and two franchises — and in both stops, he was a force to be reckoned with. His signature sky hook was virtually unguardable, and his impact on both ends of the floor made him one of the most complete big men in postseason history. With the Lakers, Kareem averaged 22.6 points, 8.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 2.4 blocks in the playoffs.
Photo Cred: NBA
His numbers with the Milwaukee Bucks were even more dominant. He put up 29.7 points, 16.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.4 blocks per game (with blocks recorded in only his final season there). From scoring efficiency to shot-blocking to veteran leadership, Kareem was an all-time playoff performer who delivered when it mattered most.
