Michael Jordan might come to mind for many when thinking of NBA playoff performances, but small forwards have carved out their niche in some unforgettable ways. Take LeBron James, for example; his 2016 NBA Finals performance stands as a testament. He led the Cleveland Cavaliers to their first championship and became the first player in Finals history to lead all players in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks over a seven-game series. His stats? An average of 29.7 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game. One doesn’t just stumble across such numbers; it takes a herculean effort and unrivaled skill.
Then there’s Larry Bird. Known for his trash talk and clutch performances, Bird’s 1984 NBA Finals showcase with the Boston Celtics remains etched in basketball lore. The Celtics went head-to-head with their bitter rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, and Bird emerged as the Finals MVP. He averaged 27.4 points and 14 rebounds per game, astounding numbers given the defensive intensity of playoff basketball. Larry’s incredible performance not only reinforced his own legacy but also solidified the Celtics-Lakers rivalry as a marquee event in sports history.
Kawhi Leonard’s 2019 postseason run with the Toronto Raptors provides a more recent example. Leonard didn’t just lead the Raptors to their first-ever NBA championship; he did so in spectacular fashion. Across 24 playoff games, Kawhi averaged 30.5 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 3.9 assists. The defining moment? His buzzer-beater Game 7 jumper over the Philadelphia 76ers, a shot that bounced multiple times off the rim before deciding the fate of an entire season. How’s that for drama and skill?
Kobe Bryant, although more commonly remembered as a shooting guard, had his fair share of time playing as a small forward. In the 2009 NBA Playoffs, Kobe led the Los Angeles Lakers to the championship with a ferocity that defined his career. He averaged 30.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, capping it off with an iconic Finals MVP award. The amazing thing about Kobe was his ability to shift between roles and still dominate the game.
One can’t discuss legendary small forward performances in the playoffs without mentioning Kevin Durant. In the 2017 NBA Finals, Durant led the Golden State Warriors to a 4-1 series win over the Cleveland Cavaliers. His performance? Mind-blowing. He shot 55.6% from the field, averaged 35.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, earning him the Finals MVP. Such efficiency and production in high-stakes situations underline just how extraordinary Durant is.
And what about Dr. J, Julius Erving? Erving’s 1983 NBA Finals performance rates among the best. Playing for the Philadelphia 76ers, Dr. J helped sweep the Lakers in four games to clinch the title. Averaging 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, Erving’s contribution transcended numbers. His acrobatic plays, including a famous behind-the-backboard reverse layup, defined an era and left fans awestruck.
Scottie Pippen is often overshadowed by his teammate Michael Jordan, but Pippen’s playoff performances were crucial to the Chicago Bulls’ success in the ’90s. In their 1996 championship run, Pippen averaged 16.9 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game. His defensive prowess, often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best player, made him indispensable. The ’96 Bulls are often considered the greatest team in NBA history, and Pippen’s multifaceted contributions were key to that designation.
Paul Pierce, the “Truth,” etched his name into playoff folklore during the 2008 NBA Finals. Leading the Boston Celtics to a victory over the Lakers, Pierce averaged 21.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game, earning the Finals MVP. Pierce’s ability to come through in clutch moments consistently made him a threat, and his performance that year remains a highlight of his Hall of Fame career.
Dominique Wilkins, the “Human Highlight Film,” gave us one of the most memorable playoff performances in a thrilling Game 7 clash against the Boston Celtics in 1988. Wilkins scored 47 points despite being closely guarded by Larry Bird. Though the Atlanta Hawks lost, Wilkins’ relentless scoring and athleticism left an indelible mark. His rivalry with Bird in that series epitomized the intense competition of the ’80s.
James Worthy’s 1988 NBA Finals Game 7 performance deserves mention not just for the numbers but for the stage. “Big Game James”, as he was nicknamed, delivered when it mattered most. With Magic Johnson’s injury concerns looming, Worthy took command and recorded a triple-double: 36 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 assists. Worthy’s remarkable effort secured the Lakers’ championship and earned him the Finals MVP. Such heroics under pressure are what legends are made of.
It’s fascinating to look at these players and realize that each of their standout performances didn’t just pad stats; they changed narratives, secured legacies, and delivered unforgettable basketball moments. Whether it was through scoring explosions, clutch plays, or all-around brilliance, these small forwards have left their imprint on NBA playoff history. If you want to relive some of these iconic performances, check out some highlights on arena plus.