The five players who have excelled in the NBA Playoffs 2025/26

The NBA playoffs always serve to separate the stars from the players capable of elevating their level even further when the real pressure arrives. And in this 2025/26 postseason, several names have taken a step forward to become absolute protagonists of their teams.

Some were already recognized figures, while others have even surprised the most optimistic fans. The truth is that their performances are shaping series, changing dynamics, and fueling the aspirations of several championship contenders. Here are five players who have exploded the most so far in the NBA playoffs.

OG Anunoby – New York Knicks

No one has elevated their level as much compared to the regular season as OG Anunoby. The Knicks small forward is possibly playing the best basketball of his career and has become a true nightmare on both ends of the court. His defensive impact remains elite, but now he is also producing like a major offensive star.

His series against Atlanta was spectacular, and his performance in Game 6, with 29 points, seven rebounds, and four steals, further raised expectations about New York. Additionally, he is shooting with exceptional accuracy from beyond the arc and punishing even off the dribble with shots of great difficulty.

Playoff stats:

• 21.0 points
• 7.9 rebounds
• 1.1 assists
• 1.6 steals
• 1.1 blocks
• 59.4% from three-point range

Cade Cunningham – Detroit Pistons

Cade Cunningham's definitive explosion is now a reality. The Detroit point guard is dominating the playoffs to the point of leading the postseason in total points and accumulated assists. Additionally, he is constantly showing up in crucial moments.

Since the Pistons were on the ropes against Orlando, Cunningham has been playing at an absolute superstar level. His 45-point game to force the sixth encounter will be one of the most impressive performances of these playoffs.

Playoff stats:

• 30.6 points
• 5.1 rebounds
• 7.4 assists
• 1.0 steals
• 40.6% from three-point range

Rudy Gobert – Minnesota Timberwolves

Although statistics often do not reflect his real impact, Rudy Gobert is delivering extraordinary defensive playoffs. The Frenchman was crucial in stopping Nikola Jokic in the first round and is holding Minnesota together in very complicated situations.

Gobert has also demonstrated a much more creative offensive side, contributing with assists and game reading in decisive moments. His performance in the series-clinching game against Denver was crucial for advancement.

Playoff stats:

• 7.3 points
• 10.5 rebounds
• 2.8 assists
• 1.5 steals
• 1.0 blocks
• 48.9% from the field

Jaden McDaniels – Minnesota Timberwolves

Primarily known for his defense, McDaniels is surprising as an offensive playmaker. The Minnesota forward has shown scoring abilities that very few expected, including a solid mid-range shot and the ability to create his own shots.

His explosion came especially in the sixth game against Denver, where he scored 32 points and led the team offensively in the absence of several stars. All this while maintaining his significant defensive impact on guards and big men.

Playoff stats:

• 16.9 points
• 6.1 rebounds
• 2.8 assists
• 50.4% from the field

Tyrese Maxey – Philadelphia 76ers

Elimination still looms over Philadelphia, but Tyrese Maxey has already shown that he belongs to the group of stars capable of leading a franchise in the playoffs. Without Joel Embiid for several games, the point guard almost single-handedly carried the Sixers against Boston.

His ability to score, push the pace, and take on offensive responsibilities was crucial in completing the comeback after trailing 3-1 in the first round. Although the series against the Knicks is proving tougher, his overall performance has been outstanding.

Playoff stats:

• 25.2 points
• 4.4 rebounds
• 6.0 assists
• 44.8% from the field

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los cinco jugadores que han explotado en los playoffs NBA 2025/26