Players have emerged in the NBA playoffs as difference-makers through timely shooting, disruptive defense, and all-out hustle. Here are my picks for six players who have distinguished themselves in the 2025 NBA Playoffs.
Spark Off the Bench, Payton Pritchard. Pritchard has become one of the most compelling stories of Boston’s playoff journey. Known primarily as a role player, the guard elevated his presence with a stellar Game 3 performance against New York. In under 40 minutes, he poured in 23 points, connecting on five three-pointers and pushing Boston to a 115–93 victory. His confidence and pace altered the game’s rhythm, giving the Celtics a backcourt advantage during crucial non-starter minutes. What makes Pritchard’s impact noteworthy is not just the scoring but the timing. Boston had struggled to space the floor consistently early in the series. His shooting forced defensive adjustments and opened up driving lanes for Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum. Beyond the stat sheet, Pritchard has injected energy and unpredictability into the Celtics’ rotation, making him a postseason X-factor as they chase another Finals appearance. His contributions will be critical as his Celtics face off in New York tonight in East Semifinal Game 6.
Even Mobley (photo, NBA)
Defensive Dominance, Even Mobley: The Cavaliers desperately needed a lift after falling into an early series hole against Indiana. After returning from a brief injury stint, Evan Mobley delivered that spark in Game 2. He finished with 18 points, 13 rebounds, four assists, three blocks, and three steals in just over 30 minutes of action. Cleveland cruised to a 126–104 win, and Mobley’s fingerprints were everywhere. What stood out was his versatility. Mobley protected the rim, switched onto guards, and disrupted passing lanes. His performance justified his Defensive Player of the Year nod and reaffirmed his value in playoff basketball, where defensive flexibility becomes more valuable with each round. With his return, the Cavaliers reclaimed some of their lost identity, particularly in the halfcourt. It wasn’t just a good game but a tone-setting reminder of why Mobley is considered the franchise’s future.
Historic Run, Donovan Mitchell: While Mobley stabilized Cleveland’s defense, Donovan Mitchell ignited their offense. The veteran guard has averaged over 41 points per game in the second-round series, consistently keeping the Cavaliers competitive against a deeper Pacers team. His consecutive 40-point performances drew comparisons to LeBron James, the only Cavalier to do so under playoff elimination pressure. Mitchell has thrived by embracing aggressive drives, creating contact, and quickly hitting mid-range shots. Defenders have struggled to contain his quick release and hesitation moves. What’s more impressive is that he’s carrying this load while navigating double teams and blitzes. Cleveland’s spacing hasn’t been ideal, yet Mitchell has found ways to score efficiently. Given the magnitude of his performances and their direct impact on Cleveland’s survival, Mitchell’s run has also influenced public perception around Eastern Conference outcomes. His continued dominance is even starting to shape betting on the NBA playoff finals, where bettors and analysts adjust expectations based on his ability to turn a series around almost single-handedly. Donovan Mitchell’s scoring streak was halted in Game 4 due to a left ankle injury. After scoring 12 points in the first half, he exited and missed the rest of the game, which Cleveland lost 129–109.
Tyrese’s performance iln series-clincher vs/ the Cavs (photo via YouTube)
Playmaking Masterclass, Tyrese Haliburton: Tyrese Haliburton has provided steady, high-IQ offense for the Indiana Pacers. While not as flashy as others on this list, his floor vision and decision-making have been instrumental in Indiana taking an early lead in their series. Haliburton has elevated everyone around him, especially shooters like Bennedict Mathurin and Buddy Hield. His ability to read defenses and react instantly to double teams has forced opponents into complex rotations. Haliburton often counters on possessions where Mitchell commands a double by pushing pace and exploiting mismatches. He also limits turnovers, which is critical in the postseason’s halfcourt-heavy environment. His court awareness and unselfish style have earned praise across analyst circles, with his name now frequently featured in the latest NBA news updates focused on breakout playoff performers. Though Indiana may not boast a traditional superstar, Haliburton’s cerebral play has made its offense one of the most efficient units this postseason. Look out for this Iowa State product when his Pacers take on the Celtics-Knicks winner for the East crown.
Relentless Scoring, Jalen Brunson: Despite New York’s Game 3 setback, Jalen Brunson remains one of the most consistent offensive performers of these playoffs. Brunson has shouldered the Knicks’ scoring burden with admirable toughness. His post game, floater range, and foul-drawing instincts have made him extremely difficult to defend. Boston has thrown multiple looks at him—switches, traps, hard hedges—but Brunson’s patience and footwork allow him to dictate tempo. Even in losses, he finds ways to keep games close. He isn’t just padding stats; he’s generating meaningful offense for a team lacking consistent perimeter shooting. Brunson’s shot selection and ability to convert under pressure continue to earn league-wide respect, and his contributions are more important than ever as the Knicks are capitalizing on the long-time quest (since 1999) to win the East and return to the NBA Championship series.
Edwards’ stats in series clincher vs. GSW (photo via YouTube)
Two-Way Brilliance, Anthony Edwards: The Minnesota Timberwolves have emerged as serious contenders, and Anthony Edwards is at the heart of their success. His average offensive stats are impressive, but his on-ball defense has stood out. Whether guarding wings or switching onto point guards, Edwards consistently disrupts rhythm and forces tough shots. His Game 1 performance against Denver—where he scored 38 points while limiting Jamal Murray to inefficient shooting—was a playoff statement. Edwards has embraced the moment without forcing plays. He reads passing lanes well, recovers quickly off screens, and uses his athleticism to close out with intensity. In a postseason often dominated by half-court offense, his ability to generate transition buckets has given Minnesota an extra gear, and Edwards is becoming a beast of the West. He will show his many talents in the conference finals vs. either the Thunder or Nuggets (getting underway Tuesday, May 20)
