The 2021 NBA playoffs showcased some of the best performances in recent basketball history. Kevin Durant's performance in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Milwaukee Bucks was nothing short of legendary. Playing all 48 minutes, Durant scored 49 points, grabbed 17 rebounds, and dished out 10 assists. This marked one of the most complete playoff games ever, reminding fans of past greats like Michael Jordan and LeBron James.
While Kevin Durant made headlines, Giannis Antetokounmpo also had an unforgettable playoffs. In Game 6 of the NBA Finals, he scored 50 points, leading the Milwaukee Bucks to their first championship in 50 years. This performance included making 17 of his 19 free throw attempts, a stark improvement over his regular-season average of 68.5% from the line. The Bucks' victory was a historic moment, bringing the championship back to Milwaukee for the first time since 1971.
Not to be outdone, Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns had numerous standout performances. In Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals against the LA Clippers, he posted a 40-point triple-double with 13 rebounds and 11 assists. This was the first triple-double of his career and showcased his abilities as both a scorer and a playmaker. Booker averaged 27.3 points throughout the playoffs, proving he could step up on the biggest stage.
Additionally, the 2021 playoffs saw Trae Young elevate his status among the NBA's elite. Leading the Atlanta Hawks on a surprising deep playoff run, Young averaged 28.8 points and 9.5 assists per game. In Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals against Milwaukee, he scored 48 points and added 11 assists. The Hawks' unexpected success highlighted Young's potential to become one of the NBA's biggest stars in the coming years.
The Clippers' Paul George also had memorable moments. With Kawhi Leonard injured, George carried the team on his back. In Game 5 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Utah Jazz, George scored 37 points, had 16 rebounds, and added 5 assists. His performance led the Clippers to a comeback win, proving he could deliver under pressure.
Luka Dončić of the Dallas Mavericks had one of the most talked-about performances in the first round. Against the LA Clippers, Dončić averaged 35.7 points, 10.3 assists, and 7.9 rebounds per game. His Game 5 performance, scoring 42 points along with 14 assists, displayed his extraordinary talent despite the Mavericks eventually losing the series in seven games.
The playoffs also had unexpected heroes. The Atlanta Hawks' Kevin Huerter, often overshadowed by his teammates, scored 27 points in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Philadelphia 76ers. Huerter's performance was pivotal, demonstrating that contributions can come from any player, helping the Hawks advance to the Conference Finals.
Of course, Chris Paul's leadership and playmaking were instrumental for the Phoenix Suns. In Game 6 of the Western Conference Finals against the Clippers, Paul scored 41 points, including 31 in the second half, leading the Suns to their first NBA Finals appearance since 1993. His mastery of the pick-and-roll and mid-range game was on full display, a testament to his experience and skill.
In terms of defensive specialists, Rudy Gobert of the Utah Jazz continued to show why he's a multiple-time Defensive Player of the Year. His shot-blocking and rim protection led the Jazz to the best record in the regular season. In the playoffs, despite the Jazz's second-round exit, Gobert averaged 13.5 rebounds and 2.0 blocks per game.
The 2021 NBA playoffs had it all: historical performances, surprise runs, and outstanding individual efforts. Each of these players contributed to their teams in significant ways, creating a memorable postseason that fans will not soon forget. For more playoff details, you can visit playoffs nba 2021.