NBA Players Who Exceeded Matched And Failed Expectations In The 2024 Playoffs.
The Boston Celtics have clinched their spot in the NBA Finals after sweeping the Indiana Pacers 4-0. Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks are leading 3-1 against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals, with Game 5 on the horizon in Minnesota. With most of the playoffs behind us, it’s time to look at the players who stepped up, those who performed as expected, and the ones who fell short. Here’s an in-depth look at the standout stories of the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
5 NBA Players Who Exceeded Expectations In The 2024 Playoffs
Jalen Brunson
Jalen Brunson
Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
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Jalen Brunson’s 2024 playoff run has been nothing short of extraordinary, solidifying his status as a top-tier performer in the NBA. Leading the New York Knicks to the Eastern Conference Semifinals, Brunson has consistently delivered when it mattered most. His playoff averages of 32.4 points, 7.5 assists, and 3.3 rebounds over 13 games highlight his offensive prowess and playmaking abilities.
Brunson’s performance in the 2024 playoffs has been historic. He became the first player since Michael Jordan in 1993 to score 40 or more points in four consecutive playoff games. During this stretch, Brunson amassed a total of 210 points over five games, the most in the postseason since Jordan’s record in 1993.
Despite a slow start in the first-round series against the Philadelphia 76ers, where he averaged just 23.0 points on 29% shooting in the first two games, Brunson flipped the switch. From Game 3 onwards, he averaged an astonishing 42.0 points and 9.4 assists per game. Brunson’s remarkable playoff run included a franchise-record 47-point game in Game 4 against the 76ers, where he also became the only player in NBA history to score 45+ points and record 10 assists in a single playoff game.
Donovan Mitchell
Donovan Mitchell
Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Donovan Mitchell’s 2024 playoff run showcased his exceptional talent and leadership, even as the Cleveland Cavaliers ultimately fell to the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Despite the team’s exit, Mitchell’s performances were a highlight of the postseason.
In the first round against the Orlando Magic, Mitchell was instrumental in leading the Cavaliers to a Game 7 victory. He scored 39 points, grabbed 9 rebounds, and dished out 5 assists in the decisive game, helping Cleveland overcome an 18-point deficit to clinch the series. His relentless scoring and playmaking were crucial in turning the game around, particularly with a standout third quarter where he scored 17 points.
Throughout the 2024 playoffs, Mitchell averaged 29.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.7 assists in 10 games, showcasing his scoring prowess and ability to step up in critical moments. His playoff journey included a remarkable 50-point game in Game 6 against the Magic, underscoring his ability to deliver under pressure.
Even though the Cavaliers were defeated by the Celtics, Mitchell’s performance remained stellar. His efforts were not enough to carry the team past a strong Boston squad, but his leadership and scoring ability were evident throughout the series (Sporting News). Mitchell’s playoff legacy continues to grow as he consistently demonstrates his capacity to perform at the highest level in the most crucial games.
