The 2025 NBA Playoffs: Player Rankings and Key Storylines
The NBA is poised for an intense postseason, and with that, the spotlight shines brighter on its most impactful players. As analysts and experts look forward to the next two months of thrilling basketball, they have ranked the top 50 players expected to influence the playoff landscape.
Top Contenders: Key Players to Watch
Among the elite, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stands out as the MVP frontrunner, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder into a search for their first championship title. Meanwhile, three-time MVP Nikola Jokic aims to strengthen his Hall of Fame resume with another championship run for the Denver Nuggets. Additionally, superstars like Luka Doncic and LeBron James will look to elevate their teams, the Los Angeles Lakers, in their quest for playoff success.
The Role of Supporting Players
While the headlines often focus on superstars, playoff series frequently hinge on the performance of role players. ESPN’s expert panel predicts that veterans, breakout stars, and unsung heroes will play pivotal roles in determining outcomes this postseason. Here’s a countdown of some players making significant impacts.
Rankings from 50 to 1
No. 50: Franz Wagner, Orlando Magic
Playoff Career Stats: 18.9 PTS | 6.9 REB | 4.4 AST (7 games)
After recovering from a torn labrum, Wagner showed promise, averaging 24 points in the final stretch of the season. However, he must improve his perimeter shooting after struggling with 3-point percentages in past playoffs.
No. 49: Myles Turner, Indiana Pacers
Playoff Career Stats: 13.8 PTS | 6.7 REB | 1.9 BLK (43 games)
Turner has been a defensive anchor for the Pacers this season, significantly improving their defense, earning him recognition alongside other defensive stars.
No. 48: Isaiah Hartenstein, Oklahoma City Thunder
Playoff Career Stats: 5.7 PTS | 5.9 REB | 57.4 FG% (26 games)
Hartenstein has emerged as a crucial player for the league’s top defense, delivering standout performances after signing a lucrative contract with the Thunder.
No. 47: Norman Powell, LA Clippers
Playoff Career Stats: 9.2 PTS | 39.2 3P% | 2.1 REB (84 games)
Powell has proven to be a go-to scorer at times, though his consistency waned with injuries and teammate Kawhi Leonard’s return to form.
No. 46: Dillon Brooks, Houston Rockets
Playoff Career Stats: 16.0 PTS | 0.9 STL | 3.1 REB (22 games)
Famed for making defensive plays against top talent, Brooks will need to step up during the Rockets’ first-round matchup against the Warriors.
No. 45: Al Horford, Boston Celtics
Playoff Career Stats: 12.2 PTS | 8 REB | 39.1 3P%
Horford remains a vital part of a strong Celtics team, having successfully managed his minutes to ensure peak performance during the playoffs.
No. 44: Luguentz Dort, Oklahoma City Thunder
Playoff Career Stats: 11.4 PTS | 4.3 REB | 0.9 STL (16 games)
Dort’s tenacity on defense makes him the player teammates rely on to cover opposing stars, alongside developing a reliable perimeter shooting game.
No. 43: Tyler Herro, Miami Heat
Playoff Career Stats: 14.3 PTS | 4.3 REB | 3.4 AST (46 games)
Having secured his first All-Star appearance this season, Herro will be critical in facilitating Miami’s offense during their playoff run.
No. 42: Josh Hart, New York Knicks
Playoff Career Stats: 12.6 PTS | 9.6 REB | 3.5 AST (24 games)
As a versatile contributor, Hart’s ability to recover loose balls and facilitate play will be crucial against tougher playoff matchups.
Key Players for Championship Push
The countdown continues as we approach the top ranks, revealing names that are integral for their teams aspiring to claim the championship. They include celebrated stars and strategic veterans whose skills may tip the balance in tight playoff matchups.
In summary, as the playoffs unfold, the contributions from these ranked players will be essential in shaping the narrative of the postseason. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how both the stars and supporting role players perform under pressure. With championship histories at stake and new legacies to build, the stage is set for an unforgettable series of basketball.