April 22, 2025 – ESPN (Brian Windhorst)
Six NBA stars need a deep playoff run in 2025 to define their legacies. Great regular seasons build fame — but playoff greatness creates legends.
Stars Who Must Deliver in the 2025 NBA Playoffs
Several superstars are under heavy pressure this postseason. Here are six players whose careers could change forever based on what happens over the next two months.
1. Luka Dončić (Los Angeles Lakers)
Background: Traded to the Lakers after a rocky Finals exit with Dallas.
Why It Matters: Despite a 37-point Game 1 performance (in a loss to Minnesota), Dončić faces questions after last year’s low shooting percentage and costly turnovers. A deep Lakers run is crucial to validate his superstar status and erase Dallas-related doubts.
2. James Harden (Los Angeles Clippers)
Background: Known for elite production but major playoff collapses.
Why It Matters: Harden hasn’t reached a conference final since 2018. After dropping 32 points in Game 1, leading the Clippers deep into the postseason would finally rewrite the narrative that he disappears in big moments.
3. Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers)
Background: Six-time All-Star with no conference finals appearances.
Why It Matters: Following a 64-win regular season, Mitchell must push Cleveland past the second round for the first time in his career to confirm his leadership credentials.
4. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Background: Expected 2025 MVP with historic offensive numbers.
Why It Matters: After falling short last postseason, Shai must lead the Thunder on a deep playoff run. Anything less would be a major reputational setback after such a dominant year.
5. Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks)
Background: The heartbeat of New York’s recent revival.
Why It Matters: Brunson brought the Knicks back to consecutive 50-win seasons. Now, the pressure is on to deliver a Finals appearance — something Knicks fans have craved since 2000.
6. Jimmy Butler (Golden State Warriors)
Background: Two Finals runs with Miami; now starring for Golden State.
Why It Matters: After forcing his way to the Warriors and signing a nine-figure extension, Butler needs to deliver a title. His strong Game 1 showing (25 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 5 steals) is a good start, but the goal is clear: championship or bust.
Final Word
Brian Windhorst writes:
“Great playoff runs are the final validator. Regular seasons may bring fame, but rings are what make legends.”
For these six stars, the next few weeks will define how history remembers them.
