As the 2024-25 NBA regular season draws to a close, the excitement and anticipation for the playoffs are at an all-time high. With just a few months left, teams are jostling for position, fighting for home-court advantage, and looking to secure their spot in the playoffs. And with the play-in tournament adding an extra layer of competition, the race to the postseason has never been more intense.
Recently, ESPN pundit Stephen A. Smith shared his thoughts on the top five NBA players who need to show out in the playoffs. These players have a lot to prove and are under immense pressure to perform at their best when it matters the most. Let’s take a closer look at who made Stephen A.’s list and why they need to step up in the playoffs.
First on the list is none other than LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers. Despite being one of the greatest players of all time, LeBron has faced criticism for his performance in the playoffs. Last season, the Lakers were eliminated in the first round, and LeBron was unable to lead his team to victory. With the Lakers currently sitting in the seventh seed, LeBron needs to show that he can still dominate in the postseason and lead his team to another championship.
Next up is Kevin Durant of the Brooklyn Nets. After missing most of last season due to injury, Durant has been on a mission to prove that he is still one of the best players in the league. With the Nets currently holding the top seed in the East, Durant has a chance to silence his critics and show that he can lead a team to a championship without the help of a super team.
Stephen A.’s third pick is Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite being a two-time MVP, Giannis has yet to make it past the Eastern Conference Finals. With the Bucks currently in the third seed, Giannis needs to show that he can elevate his game in the playoffs and lead his team to the NBA Finals. Anything less will be considered a disappointment for the Bucks and their star player.
Fourth on the list is Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers. After a disappointing playoff run last season, Embiid has been on a tear this year, averaging 30 points and 11 rebounds per game. With the 76ers currently holding the top seed in the East, Embiid has a chance to prove that he is the best big man in the league and lead his team to a deep playoff run.
Last but not least is Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks. Despite being just 24 years old, Doncic has already established himself as one of the best players in the league. However, he has yet to make it past the first round of the playoffs. With the Mavericks currently in the sixth seed, Doncic needs to show that he can lead his team to a playoff series win and prove that he is ready to take the next step in his career.
In conclusion, the playoffs are a time for the best players to shine and prove their worth. These five players, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Joel Embiid, and Luka Doncic, have a lot to prove and are under immense pressure to perform at their best. As the playoffs approach, all eyes will be on them to see if they can rise to the occasion and lead their teams to victory. It’s time for these players to show out and solidify their place among the NBA’s elite.
