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The playoffs de la NBA are officially upon us, kicking off with the SoFi Play-In Tournament recently concluded. With the postseason excitement in the air, many basketball fans are eager to see how their favorite players will perform on the grand stage. This year’s playoff series is particularly exciting, as several prominent players are on the cusp of astonishing milestones that could define their legacies.
Mighty Milestones Anticipated in the 2026 NBA Playoffs
As teams buckle down for what promises to be a thrilling playoff run, Kevin Durant is already making headlines. The veteran star and Houston Rockets forward has surpassed Michael Jordan, achieving the No. 5 spot on the all-time scoring list. However, if the Rockets are to have a successful playoff run, Durant has the chance to make even more history. He requires only 188 points to pass Tim Duncan for sixth place and 266 points to surpass Shaquille O’Neal for fifth place in playoff scoring. Historically, Durant has averaged less than 319 points in playoff runs with at least ten games, putting this achievement within sight.
Meanwhile, the legendary LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers has his own set of milestones to chase. With 480 career playoff three-pointers, he needs just 32 more to overtake Klay Thompson for second-most in playoff history. James has previously achieved similar feats, making 32 or more three-pointers during the 2020 playoffs when he led the Lakers to an NBA title — indicating he might be able to replicate that performance if the Lakers go deep this year.
James Harden and Rising Stars Ready to Shine
On the Cavaliers, James Harden is gearing up as well, aiming to enter elite scoring conversations. Currently at 3,895 playoff points (No. 14 all-time), he must score just three points to surpass Larry Bird for No. 13 and is only 105 points from crossing the critical 4,000-point threshold. Harden has maintained a consistent playoff performance, scoring over 127 points in every postseason since 2010-11, making this landmark attainable.
Emerging stars like Jayson Tatum and Paul George are also in a position to change the landscape for their franchises. Tatum is just three three-pointers away from moving into the top ten of the all-time playoff three-pointers made list, while Durant is aiming to secure his place within the top five in that same category, needing only 20 additional three-pointers.
Team Milestones to Watch For in the 2026 Playoffs
Team accomplishments are equally noteworthy. The Boston Celtics, led by Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, have the potential to make strides in several categories. Brown currently ranks ninth in playoff history for the Celtics, but with just over 300 points, he could elevate to the fifth spot. Tatum is also on the verge of eclipsing Kevin McHale in scoring if he manages to tally 247 points.
The Cleveland Cavaliers feature Donovan Mitchell, who aims to rise through the ranks in team history. A mark of 132 points will position him above J.R. Smith, with 266 points potentially granting him access to the top three alongside Kevin Love. Additionally, Evan Mobley could cement his place further in the team’s playoff history with solid showings.
- The Denver Nuggets have Nikola Jokić, who is close to breaking into the top two for three-pointers made.
- From the Golden State Warriors, Draymond Green can solidify his playoff legacy with just a few more field goals.
- Even the Los Angeles Lakers have may see LeBron James surpass his defensive milestones.
As the playoffs de la NBA unfold, fans have a lot to look forward to, with several potential record-breaking moments on the horizon. The excitement and drama of the postseason are unmistakable, making it a must-watch event for basketball lovers everywhere.
What’s Next for the Stars?
As we delve deeper into the playoffs, fans are encouraged to watch closely, as legends are poised not just to compete but to redefine the history of NBA playoffs to come. Who will rise to the occasion? The tense atmosphere of the games promises thrills, spills, and unforgettable milestones.
