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LeBron James’ Playoff Record Against Every NBA Team

By Fran Leiva,

14 days ago

LeBron James is often considered one of the all-time greats in sports history. With an impressive resume boasting 4 championships and an astounding 10 Finals appearances, his mastery of the postseason is undeniable.

Throughout his illustrious career, LeBron has consistently outperformed a multitude of opponents, showcasing his unparalleled skill and leadership on the court. That's why we're here to dissect his playoff record against every NBA franchise, providing insights into his remarkable journey through the playoffs.

LeBron James vs. Atlanta Hawks: 12-0 (3-0 in series)

2009 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Cavaliers vs. Hawks 4-0

2015 Eastern Conference Finals: Cavaliers vs. Hawks 4-0

2016 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Cavaliers vs. Hawks 4-0

LeBron James has maintained a flawless 12-0 record against the Atlanta Hawks across three playoff series. His performance in these matchups showcases his overwhelming dominance during the postseason.

In the 2009 Eastern Conference Semifinals, LeBron was a force to be reckoned with, averaging 34.0 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game. His ability to control the game was evident as he led the Cavaliers to a comprehensive sweep, outplaying the Hawks in every aspect of the series.

During the 2015 Eastern Conference Finals, LeBron's statistics were equally impressive, with averages of 30.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 9.3 assists per game. His near triple-double performance throughout the series underscored his evolved skill set and critical impact, leading to another swift 4-0 victory.

The 2016 Eastern Conference Semifinals saw LeBron continue his playoff success against Atlanta, where he posted averages of 24.3 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game. This series highlighted his consistent ability to perform at a high level, contributing significantly to the Cavaliers' sweep.

LeBron James vs. Boston Celtics: 25-16 (5-2 in series)

2008 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Cavaliers vs. Celtics 3-4

2010 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Cavaliers vs. Celtics 2-4

2011 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Heat vs. Celtics 4-1

2012 Eastern Conference Finals: Heat vs. Celtics 4-3

2015 Eastern Conference First Round: Cavaliers vs. Celtics 4-0

2017 Eastern Conference Finals: Cavaliers vs. Celtics 4-1

2018 Eastern Conference Finals: Cavaliers vs. Celtics 4-3

LeBron James has consistently demonstrated his playoff prowess against the Boston Celtics, maintaining a strong 5-2 series record. His battles with Boston are highlighted by a 45-point performance in Game 6 of the 2012 Eastern Conference Finals, a game that epitomized his ability to rise to the occasion under immense pressure. This series, where he averaged 33.6 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 3.9 assists, is often regarded as one of his most defining playoff moments.

The 2018 Eastern Conference Finals showcased another heroic effort by LeBron, as he led a Cavaliers team that was considered an underdog to a series victory. His overall impact was monumental, with averages of 34.0 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 11.3 assists per game throughout the series. LeBron's leadership and dominance in these high-stakes matchups have cemented his legacy as a formidable playoff competitor, particularly against a storied franchise like the Celtics.

LeBron James vs. Brooklyn Nets: 8-3 (2-0 in series)

2007 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Cavaliers vs. Nets 4-2

2014 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Heat vs. Nets 4-1

LeBron James has faced the Brooklyn Nets in the playoffs twice, holding an impressive 8-3 record in these matchups. These series have highlighted his ability to lead his teams through challenging rounds with decisive victories.

In the 2007 Eastern Conference Semifinals, LeBron's first playoff run against the Nets featured him leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 4-2 series win. During this series, he averaged 25.0 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game, showcasing his emerging leadership and ability to influence every aspect of the game. His performance was crucial in propelling the young Cavaliers team past an experienced Nets squad.

The 2014 Eastern Conference Semifinals saw LeBron with the Miami Heat, facing off against a Nets team that had added seasoned veterans Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett. LeBron’s performance was dominant, particularly in closing out the series in five games. He averaged 30.0 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, demonstrating his evolved skill set and basketball IQ. This series was a testament to his continued excellence and ability to adapt and dominate against different styles of play.

LeBron James vs. Charlotte Bobcats (Hornets): 4-0 (1-0 in series)

2014 Eastern Conference First Round: Heat vs. Bobcats 4-0

LeBron James and the Miami Heat swept the Charlotte Bobcats in the 2014 Eastern Conference First Round, marking the only playoff encounter between LeBron and the team now known as the Charlotte Hornets. This series was a display of LeBron’s dominance in his prime Miami Heat years.

During this series, LeBron was particularly formidable, showcasing a blend of scoring, playmaking, and defensive prowess. He averaged 30.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, clearly leading the charge for the Heat. His ability to take over games was evident in how he managed to consistently break down the Bobcats' defenses, making critical plays that decisively shifted the momentum in favor of Miami.

LeBron James vs. Chicago Bulls: 16-5 (4-0 in series)

2010 Eastern Conference First Round: Cavaliers vs. Bulls 4-1

2011 Eastern Conference Finals: Heat vs. Bulls 4-1

2013 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Heat vs. Bulls 4-1

2015 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Cavaliers vs. Bulls 4-2

LeBron James has consistently outperformed the Chicago Bulls in the playoffs, holding a perfect 4-0 series record. His encounters with the Bulls have been marked by strategic brilliance and clutch performances.

In the 2010 First Round and again in 2011 at the Eastern Conference Finals, LeBron's leadership was pivotal, navigating his teams through intense matchups against a resilient Bulls squad. His comprehensive play in these series showcased his ability to dominate both ends of the court, particularly evident in his defensive assignments against key Bulls players like Derrick Rose.

The 2013 and 2015 series further highlighted LeBron's adaptability and impact, where he demonstrated his scoring prowess, playmaking, and timely defensive plays. The 2015 series was notably clinched with a LeBron buzzer-beater in Game 4, underlining his clutch capabilities in critical moments.

LeBron James vs. Dallas Mavericks: 2-4 (0-1 in series)

2011 NBA Finals: Heat vs. Mavericks 2-4

LeBron James and the Miami Heat faced the Dallas Mavericks in the 2011 NBA Finals, marking LeBron's first NBA Finals appearance with Miami. This series was particularly challenging for LeBron, as it concluded with the Mavericks winning the championship in six games.

During this series, LeBron averaged 17.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game. His performance was heavily scrutinized, as he did not display the dominant form seen in earlier playoff rounds, particularly in crucial moments of the series. This series is often cited as a key moment in LeBron's career, leading him to subsequently elevate his play in future postseasons.

LeBron James vs. Denver Nuggets: 5-9 (1-2 in series)

2020 Western Conference Finals: Lakers vs. Nuggets 4-1

2023 Western Conference Finals: Lakers vs. Nuggets 0-4

2024 Western Conference First Round: Lakers vs. Nuggets 1-4

LeBron James has faced the Denver Nuggets three times in the playoffs, holding a 5-9 record. These series have been marked by intense competition and pivotal moments.

In the 2020 Western Conference Finals, LeBron and the Lakers secured a 4-1 series victory over the Nuggets. LeBron's leadership and stellar performances played a crucial role in guiding the Lakers to the NBA Finals, where they ultimately clinched the championship.

However, the 2023 Western Conference Finals presented a different outcome, with the Lakers falling 0-4 to the Nuggets. Despite LeBron's efforts, the Nuggets proved to be a formidable opponent, ultimately advancing to the NBA Finals.

In the most recent 2024 playoff meeting during the Western Conference First Round, the Lakers suffered a 1-4 series loss to the Nuggets. This series highlighted the Nuggets' dominance and strategic prowess, resulting in a challenging defeat for LeBron and the Lakers.

LeBron James vs. Detroit Pistons: 15-6 (4-0 in series)

2006 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Cavaliers vs. Pistons 3-4

2007 Eastern Conference Finals: Cavaliers vs. Pistons 4-2

2009 Eastern Conference First Round: Cavaliers vs. Pistons 4-0

2016 Eastern Conference First Round: Cavaliers vs. Pistons 4-0

LeBron James has a strong playoff record of 15-6 against the Detroit Pistons, winning all four series matchups. Their first encounter in the 2006 Eastern Conference Semifinals ended in a 3-4 loss for LeBron's Cavaliers, despite his remarkable performances. In 2007, the Cavaliers secured a 4-2 victory in the Eastern Conference Finals, highlighted by LeBron's memorable Game 5 performance.

In the 2009 Eastern Conference First Round, LeBron led the Cavaliers to a dominant 4-0 sweep over the Pistons, showcasing his leadership and dominance. Their most recent meeting in the 2016 Eastern Conference First Round resulted in another 4-0 sweep for LeBron and the Cavaliers, emphasizing their superiority.

LeBron James vs. Golden State Warriors: 11-17 (1-3 in series)

2015 NBA Finals: Cavaliers vs. Warriors 2-4

2016 NBA Finals: Cavaliers vs. Warriors 4-3

2017 NBA Finals: Cavaliers vs. Warriors 1-4

2018 NBA Finals: Cavaliers vs. Warriors 0-4

LeBron James has faced the Golden State Warriors in four playoff series, holding an 11-17 record against them. Their first playoff encounter occurred in the 2015 NBA Finals, where LeBron's Cleveland Cavaliers fell to the Warriors in six games. Despite LeBron's outstanding performance, including consecutive 40-point games, the Cavaliers were unable to overcome the Warriors' depth and firepower.

In the 2016 NBA Finals rematch, LeBron led the Cavaliers to a historic comeback from a 3-1 series deficit, securing Cleveland's first NBA championship. LeBron's leadership and spectacular play, including a memorable chase-down block in Game 7, earned him Finals MVP honors.

The Warriors would get their revenge in the following two years, defeating the Cavaliers in the 2017 and 2018 NBA Finals. Despite LeBron's individual brilliance, including averaging a triple-double in the 2017 series, the Warriors' formidable roster proved too much for the Cavaliers to handle.

LeBron James vs. Houston Rockets: 4-1 (1-0 in series)

2020 Western Conference Semifinals: Lakers vs. Rockets 4-1

In the 2020 Western Conference Semifinals, LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers faced the Houston Rockets, securing a convincing 4-1 series victory. LeBron's leadership and all-around performance were instrumental in guiding the Lakers past the Rockets and advancing further in the playoffs. This series showcased LeBron's ability to elevate his game when it mattered most, helping propel the Lakers closer to their eventual NBA championship.

LeBron's impact was felt on both ends of the court, as he showcased his versatility and leadership throughout the series. He averaged 25.8 points, 10.4 rebounds, 7.4 assists, and 1.2 steals per game, solidifying his status as a dominant force in the playoffs. His ability to control the tempo of the game and make key plays in crucial moments was crucial in guiding the Lakers to victory.

LeBron James vs. Indiana Pacers: 20-10 (5-0 in series)

2012 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Heat vs. Pacers 4-2

2013 Eastern Conference Finals: Heat vs. Pacers 4-3

2014 Eastern Conference Finals: Heat vs. Pacers 4-2

2017 Eastern Conference First Round: Cavaliers vs. Pacers 4-0

2018 Eastern Conference First Round: Cavaliers vs. Pacers 4-3

LeBron James boasts a dominant playoff record of 20-10 against the Indiana Pacers, winning all five series matchups. Throughout these series, LeBron showcased his leadership and exceptional performance. In the 2013 Eastern Conference Finals, he averaged 29.0 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, leading the Heat to a hard-fought victory in seven games.

In the 2014 Eastern Conference Finals, LeBron continued his stellar play, averaging 22.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game, helping the Heat secure a series win in six games. His playoff success against the Pacers extended into his Cleveland Cavaliers tenure. In the 2017 Eastern Conference First Round, LeBron averaged 32.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game, leading the Cavaliers to a series sweep.

The 2018 Eastern Conference First Round saw LeBron deliver once again, averaging 34.4 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game, including a memorable game-winning shot in Game 5 to clinch the series.

LeBron James vs. Memphis Grizzlies: 4-2 (1-0 in series)

2023 Western Conference First Round: Lakers vs. Grizzlies 4-2

In the 2023 Western Conference First Round, LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers faced the Memphis Grizzlies, securing a 4-2 series victory. LeBron's impact was significant, averaging 22.2 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game over the six-game series. His leadership and all-around performance were instrumental in guiding the Lakers past the Grizzlies and advancing further in the playoffs.

LeBron James vs. Miami Heat: 4-2 (1-0 in series)

2020 NBA Finals: Lakers vs. Heat 4-2

In the 2020 NBA Finals, LeBron James led the Los Angeles Lakers against his former team, the Miami Heat, securing a series victory of 4-2. Throughout the series, LeBron showcased his dominance on the court, averaging 29.8 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game. His leadership and skills were instrumental in guiding the Lakers to the NBA championship, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in league history.

LeBron James vs. Milwaukee Bucks: 4-0 (1-0 in series)

2013 Eastern Conference First Round: Heat vs. Bucks 4-0

In the 2013 Eastern Conference First Round, LeBron James and the Miami Heat faced the Milwaukee Bucks. LeBron led the charge as the Heat swept the series 4-0.

LeBron's performance was stellar throughout the series, averaging 24.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game. His leadership and dominance on both ends of the floor were crucial in securing the series victory for Miami.

The Heat went on to win the NBA championship that year, with LeBron earning his second consecutive NBA Finals MVP award. His outstanding play during the playoffs solidified his status as one of the greatest players in basketball history.

LeBron James vs. New York Knicks: 4-1 (1-0 in series)

2012 First Round: Heat vs. Knicks 4-1

In the 2012 NBA Playoffs first round, LeBron James and the Miami Heat faced the New York Knicks. LeBron's impact was profound throughout the series, as he averaged 27.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. His leadership and dominant performances were instrumental in guiding the Heat to a series victory.

The series victory against the Knicks was a significant step for LeBron and the Heat as they pursued an NBA championship that season. It highlighted LeBron's ability to perform at a high level when it mattered most and solidified his status as one of the league's premier players.

LeBron James vs. Oklahoma City Thunder: 4-1 (1-0 in series)

2012 NBA Finals: Heat vs. Thunder 4-1

LeBron James faced the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2012 NBA Finals. The series ended with a 4-1 victory for James' Miami Heat. Throughout the series, LeBron James showcased his exceptional talent, averaging 28.6 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game. His leadership and all-around performance were instrumental in leading the Heat to victory and securing his first NBA championship.

Despite the Thunder's formidable lineup, LeBron's dominance on both ends of the court proved too much to handle. His ability to elevate his game in crucial moments and make impactful plays contributed significantly to the Heat's success in the series.

LeBron James vs. Orlando Magic: 2-4 (0-1 in series)

2009 Eastern Conference Finals: Cavaliers vs. Magic 2-4

LeBron James faced the Orlando Magic in the 2009 Eastern Conference Finals. The series concluded with a 2-4 defeat for James' Cleveland Cavaliers. Throughout the series, LeBron James put up impressive numbers, averaging 38.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 8.0 assists per game. Despite his outstanding individual performances, the Cavaliers struggled to contain the Magic's balanced offensive attack and fell short of advancing to the NBA Finals.

LeBron James vs. Philadelphia 76ers: 4-1 (1-0 in series)

2011 First Round: Heat vs. 76ers 4-1

LeBron James faced the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2011 NBA Playoffs first round. The series concluded with a 4-1 victory for James' Miami Heat. During the series, LeBron James displayed his exceptional talent, averaging 24.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game. His leadership and all-around performance were instrumental in leading the Heat to victory and advancing to the next round of the playoffs.

The 2011 NBA Playoffs' first-round victory over the 76ers marked a positive start for LeBron and the Heat as they pursued an NBA championship that season.

LeBron James vs. Phoenix Suns: 2-4 (0-1 in series)

2021 First Round: Lakers vs. Suns 2-4

LeBron James faced the Phoenix Suns in the 2021 NBA Playoffs first round. The series concluded with a 2-4 defeat for James' Los Angeles Lakers.

Throughout the series, LeBron James showcased his exceptional talent, averaging 23.3 points, 8.0 assists, and 7.2 rebounds per game. Despite his strong individual performances, the Lakers struggled against the Suns' balanced offensive attack and defensive intensity.

Despite the Lakers' efforts, they were unable to contain the Suns' strong play and ultimately fell short of advancing to the next round of the playoffs.

LeBron James vs. Portland Trail Blazers: 4-1 (1-0 in series)

2020 First Round: Lakers vs. Trail Blazers 4-1

LeBron James faced the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2020 NBA Playoffs first round. The series concluded with a 4-1 victory for James' Los Angeles Lakers.

Throughout the series, LeBron James showcased his exceptional talent, averaging 27.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 9.2 assists per game. His leadership and all-around performance were instrumental in leading the Lakers to victory and advancing to the next round of the playoffs.

Despite the Trail Blazers' efforts, they were unable to contain LeBron's dominance on both ends of the court. His ability to elevate his game in crucial moments and make impactful plays contributed significantly to the Lakers' success in the series.

LeBron James vs. San Antonio Spurs: 5-11 (1-2 in series)

2007 NBA Finals: Cavaliers vs. Spurs 0-4

2013 NBA Finals: Heat vs. Spurs 4-3

2014 NBA Finals: Heat vs. Spurs 1-4

LeBron James has faced the San Antonio Spurs in three NBA Finals series. In 2007, LeBron's Cleveland Cavaliers were defeated 0-4 by the Spurs. However, in 2013, LeBron and the Miami Heat faced the Spurs in a thrilling seven-game series, winning 4-3. The following year, in 2014, the Spurs emerged victorious, defeating the Heat 4-1 in the NBA Finals.

Despite LeBron's outstanding performances throughout these matchups, including averaging 22.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game in 2007, 25.3 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game in 2013, and 28.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game in 2014, the Spurs' cohesive team play and defensive prowess posed significant challenges. Despite the losses, these playoff battles against the Spurs have served as learning experiences for LeBron, shaping his approach to future postseason campaigns.

LeBron James vs. Toronto Raptors: 12-2 (4-0 in series)

2016 Eastern Conference Finals: Cavaliers vs. Raptors 4-2

2017 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Cavaliers vs. Raptors 4-0

2018 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Cavaliers vs. Raptors 4-0

LeBron James has had dominant performances against the Toronto Raptors in the playoffs, boasting a record of 12-2. In the 2016 Eastern Conference Finals, LeBron led the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 4-2 series victory over the Raptors. The trend continued in the 2017 and 2018 Eastern Conference Semifinals, where the Cavaliers swept the Raptors 4-0 in both series.

LeBron's performances against the Raptors have been nothing short of exceptional, with his leadership and all-around contributions playing a significant role in the Cavaliers' success. His ability to elevate his game in the playoffs has consistently posed challenges for the Raptors, making LeBron a formidable opponent in postseason matchups.

LeBron James vs. Washington Wizards: 12-4 (3-0 in series)

2006 First Round: Cavaliers vs. Wizards 4-2

2007 First Round: Cavaliers vs. Wizards 4-0

2008 First Round: Cavaliers vs. Wizards 4-2

LeBron James has had success against the Washington Wizards in the playoffs, boasting a record of 12-4. In their first-round matchup in 2006, LeBron led the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 4-2 series victory over the Wizards. The trend continued in 2007 and 2008, with the Cavaliers sweeping the Wizards in 2007 and winning the series 4-2 in 2008.

In his 16 playoff games against the Washington Wizards throughout his career, LeBron James has averaged 30.3 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game. His consistent dominance against the Wizards has been a testament to his ability to perform at the highest level in the postseason.