Introduction

The NBA playoffs have been the birthplace of legends. Over the years, we've witnessed jaw-dropping displays of athleticism, sheer will, and basketball IQ that defined not only careers but also the league itself. This list dives deep into 20 of the greatest individual playoff performances, evaluating context, stakes, stats, and legacy.

1. Michael Jordan – 63 Points vs Celtics (1986)

Image 2: Jordan shooting over Larry Bird

Despite being only in his second season, Jordan scorched a legendary Celtics team in Boston Garden. His 63 points remain the highest in a playoff game, leading Larry Bird to famously call him “God disguised as Michael Jordan.”

2. LeBron James – 45-15-5 vs Celtics (2012)

In Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals, with Miami down 3-2, LeBron delivered an all-time great clutch performance. His laser focus and dominant presence silenced TD Garden.

3. Magic Johnson – Game 6 Finals Performance (1980)

Rookie Magic played center in place of an injured Kareem, tallying 42 points, 15 boards, and 7 assists to seal the title.

4. Allen Iverson – Game 1 vs Lakers (2001 Finals)

Image 3: Iverson stepping over Tyronn Lue

Underdog Philly stunned the unbeaten Lakers behind Iverson’s iconic 48-point game and "step-over" moment.

5. Kawhi Leonard – Game 7 Buzzer-Beater (2019)

His high-arching corner shot bounced on the rim four times before falling, knocking out the Sixers and setting Toronto on a title path.

6. Tim Duncan – 2003 Finals Game 6

Near-quadruple double (21-20-10-8) in a closeout game, showcasing Duncan’s quiet dominance.

7. Dirk Nowitzki – 2011 Playoff Run

Beating the Lakers, Thunder, and Heat, Dirk’s consistent brilliance and clutch play redefined his legacy.

8. Damian Lillard – “The Wave” (2019)

Image 4: Lillard waving goodbye to Thunder

Dropped 50 on OKC, ending their season with a cold-blooded 37-foot game-winner.

9. Larry Bird – 1984 Finals Game 5

On a sweltering night in the Boston Garden, Bird dropped 34 and grabbed 17 boards to take the lead in a rough-and-tumble series.

10. Hakeem Olajuwon – 1995 WCF vs Spurs

Outplaying MVP David Robinson, The Dream averaged 35+ PPG and showcased his Dream Shake in peak form.

11–20: Other Noteworthy Performances

  • Shaquille O’Neal (2000 Finals): Dominance with 38 PPG against Indiana.
  • Kobe Bryant (2001 Playoffs): Averaged 29.4 PPG on the most efficient title run.
  • Reggie Miller (1994 vs Knicks): 8 points in 9 seconds is still surreal.
  • Giannis Antetokounmpo (2021 Finals Game 6): 50 points in a title-clinching game.
  • Kevin Durant (2021 Game 5 vs Bucks): 49-17-10 and didn’t sit a second.
  • Paul Pierce (2008 Game 7): Carried Boston over Cleveland with 41.
  • Dwyane Wade (2006 Finals): Averaged 34.7 PPG to snatch the series from Dallas.
  • Tracy McGrady (2003 Game 2 vs Pistons): 46 points in a masterclass.
  • Jimmy Butler (2023 vs Bucks): 56-point masterpiece in Round 1.
  • Russell Westbrook (2017 vs Rockets): A triple-double playoff game with 51 points.

Conclusion

Each of these playoff performances left a unique mark on basketball history. Whether they came in a Finals series or a first-round upset, they showed how pressure creates diamonds—and legends.