Most Points Per Game In The First 10 NBA Playoff Games (Age 22 And Younger)

In an epic Game 7 in the Western Conference Semifinals, the Minnesota Timberwolves pulled off an incredible comeback, erasing a 20-point deficit to knock out the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets . This win pushed the Wolves to the Western Conference Finals for the first time in 20 years , and prepared the stage for a potential Finals run.

Anthony Edwards has been the star of these playoffs, showcasing his rise to superstardom and solidifying his place as a top-10 player in the league. His scoring and leadership have been pivotal, helping the Wolves match their best playoff run ever as they prepare to face the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Finals.

With his impressive playoff run in mind, let's take a look at other young players, aged 22 or younger, who have made a significant impact in their first 10 playoff games of a single postseason run. This will help us see where Edwards ranks among the greatest young talents in NBA history so far.

1. Kobe Bryant - 32.4 PPG (2001 NBA Playoffs)

Stats In First 10 Games: 32.4 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 5.7 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Stats In the 2001 NBA Playoffs: 29.4 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 6.1 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.8 BPG

NBA Championship: Yes

In the 2001 NBA Playoffs, a 22-year-old Kobe Bryant elevated his game to new heights, delivering one of the most memorable playoff performances in NBA history. Over his first 10 games, Kobe averaged an astounding 32.4 points per game, proving he was more than just a sidekick to Shaquille O’Neal on the dominant Los Angeles Lakers team, as his 48-point game in Game 4 of the second round against the Kings. His all-around contributions were equally impressive, as he averaged 7.5 rebounds, 5.7 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game, showcasing his versatility and tenacity on both ends of the court.

Bryant's impact was felt immediately as the Lakers steamrolled through the Western Conference. They swept the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round and the Sacramento Kings in the conference semifinals. Kobe's scoring explosions and clutch performances were crucial in maintaining the Lakers' unbeaten streak. His ability to take over games and dominate opponents was a key factor in their success.

As the playoffs progressed, Bryant continued his high-level play, finishing the postseason with averages of 29.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, 6.1 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game. His dynamic scoring and playmaking abilities were on full display, making him a nightmare for defenses to handle.

The Lakers' playoff run culminated in a showdown with the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA Finals. Bryant’s brilliance, combined with Shaq's dominance, proved too much for the Sixers. The Lakers won the championship in five games, completing one of the most dominant playoff runs in NBA history with a 15-1 record.

2. LeBron James - 30.9 PPG (2006 NBA Playoffs)

Stats In First 10 Games: 30.9 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 6.4 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Stats In the 2006 NBA Playoffs: 31.7 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 6.4 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG

NBA Championship: No

In the 2006 NBA Playoffs, a 21-year-old LeBron James introduced himself to the postseason with a performance that predicted his future greatness. Making his playoff debut with the Cleveland Cavaliers, LeBron averaged an outstanding 30.9 points per game over his first 10 games, showing the world his scoring ability and leadership on the biggest stage. Alongside his scoring, he also averaged 8.1 rebounds, 6.4 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game, demonstrating his versatility and all-around impact.

James led the Cavaliers through a tough first-round series against the Washington Wizards. The series went to six games, with LeBron's heroics, including a game-winning layup in Game 3, proving crucial for Cleveland’s advancement. Also, his 45 points in Game 5 were the highest of that span. His ability to take over games in clutch moments was on full display, and he finished the series averaging 35.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game.

In the second round, the Cavaliers faced the Detroit Pistons, a team with significant playoff experience and a stout defense. LeBron continued to shine, averaging 26.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game in the series. The Cavs pushed the Pistons to a thrilling seven-game series but ultimately fell short, losing in Game 7. Despite the loss, James' performance throughout the series earned him widespread acclaim and established him as one of the most promising young stars in the NBA.

LeBron finished the 2006 playoffs with overall averages of 30.8 points, 8.1 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game. His ability to perform at such a high level in his first playoff run was a clear indicator of the incredible career that lay ahead. Although the Cavaliers did not win the championship that year, LeBron's playoff debut remains one of the most impressive in history, highlighting his potential to become one of the greatest players of all time.

3. Anthony Edwards - 30.2 PPG (2024 NBA Playoffs)

Stats In First 10 Games: 30.2 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 5.8 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Stats In the 2024 NBA Playoffs (11 games so far): 28.9 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 5.9 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.6 BPG

NBA Championship: No (as of now)

Anthony Edwards has been nothing short of spectacular in the 2024 NBA Playoffs, putting up some of the most impressive numbers we've seen from a young player. In his first 10 games, Edwards averaged 30.2 points per game, along with 6.0 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 1.7 steals, and 0.7 blocks. His ability to score from anywhere on the court and his relentless drive have been on full display. His best performance in this span, with 44 points in Game 4, showed his leadership at the biggest stage.

The Timberwolves, led by Edwards, have had an impressive playoff run so far. They swept the Phoenix Suns 4-0 in the first round, with Edwards leading the charge with high-scoring performances and clutch plays. In the second round, they faced a tougher challenge against the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets. Despite going 2-0 early in the series, the Timberwolves fought back from a 3-2 deficit to win the series in seven games.

Throughout the playoffs, Edwards has maintained his high level of play. Over 11 games, he’s averaging 28.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.9 assists, 1.7 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game. His consistency and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations have cemented his status as one of the top young talents in the league.

With the Timberwolves now advancing to the Western Conference Finals to face the Dallas Mavericks, all eyes will be on Edwards to see if he can continue his stellar performance and possibly lead his team to the NBA Finals. Regardless of the outcome, Edwards' 2024 playoff run is already one for the history books, showcasing his potential to be one of the league's future superstars.

4. Derrick Rose - 29.8 PPG (2011 NBA Playoffs)

Stats In First 10 Games: 29.8 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 7.8 APG, 1.7 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Stats In the 2011 NBA Playoffs: 27.1 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 7.7 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.7 BPG

NBA Championship: No

Derrick Rose's 2011 playoff run with the Chicago Bulls showcased his extraordinary talent and athleticism. At just 22 years old, Rose was the league’s MVP and carried his regular season success into the playoffs. Over his first 10 playoff games, Rose averaged an impressive 29.8 points per game, along with 4.5 rebounds, 7.8 assists, 1.7 steals, and 1.0 blocks, demonstrating his dynamic playmaking and scoring abilities.

Rose's performance was pivotal in the Bulls’ first-round victory over the Indiana Pacers and their second-round win against the Atlanta Hawks. In Game 3, he had his best showing of that span with 44 points. He consistently delivered high-scoring games and clutch performances, leading the Bulls to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since the Michael Jordan era.

However, the Bulls faced a formidable opponent in the Miami Heat, led by LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh. Despite Rose's efforts, the Bulls were defeated in five games. Rose finished the playoffs with averages of 27.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 7.7 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game. His explosive play and leadership were highlights of the Bulls’ playoff run, cementing his status as one of the league's top players during that period.

Related: Michael Jordan Won 25 Of His Last 26 Playoff Series

5. Kevin Durant - 29.7 PPG (2011 NBA Playoffs)

Stats In First 10 Games: 29.7 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 2.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Stats In the 2011 NBA Playoffs: 28.6 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.1 BPG

NBA Championship: No

Kevin Durant's 2011 playoff performance with the Oklahoma City Thunder was a glimpse of his future dominance in the NBA. At 22 years old, Durant averaged an impressive 29.7 points per game over his first 10 playoff games, along with 7.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.9 blocks. His best game came against the Nuggets, where he opened up the First Round with 41 points.

The Thunder's playoff run included a hard-fought series against the Denver Nuggets in the first round, which they won in five games, followed by a tough seven-game battle against the Memphis Grizzlies in the second round. Durant's consistent scoring and leadership were crucial in these victories.

Durant continued to shine throughout the playoffs, finishing with averages of 28.6 points, 8.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 0.9 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game. However, the Thunder's journey ended in the Western Conference Finals against the Dallas Mavericks, who went on to win the NBA Championship.

Despite not reaching the Finals, Durant's 2011 playoff run established him as one of the league's premier young talents and set the stage for his future successes. His ability to perform at such a high level in his early career remains a benchmark for young players aiming to make their mark in the playoffs.

6. Trae Young - 29.4 PPG (2021 NBA Playoffs)

Stats In First 10 Games: 29.4 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 10.3 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.0 BPG

Stats In the 2021 NBA Playoffs: 28.8 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 9.5 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.0 BPG

NBA Championship: No

Trae Young burst onto the 2021 NBA Playoffs stage with remarkable performances, averaging 29.4 points per game over his first 10 games, and scoring a span-high in Game 5 against the 76ers with 39 points. His playmaking was equally impressive, with 10.3 assists per game, alongside 2.4 rebounds and 1.2 steals, highlighting his ability to control the game and elevate his teammates' play.

Young led the Atlanta Hawks past the New York Knicks in the first round and the top-seeded Philadelphia 76ers in the second round, both times as the underdog. His scoring and clutch shooting were crucial, particularly in hostile environments.

Throughout the playoffs, Young maintained stellar play, finishing with averages of 28.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 9.5 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. The Hawks' playoff run eventually ended in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite the Hawks not winning the championship, Young's breakout performance in his first playoff appearance established him as one of the premier young guards in the NBA.

7. Amar'e Stoudemire - 26.4 PPG (2005 NBA Playoffs)

Stats In First 10 Games: 26.4 PPG, 11.1 RPG, 1.1 APG, 0.5 SPG, 2.2 BPG

Stats In the 2005 NBA Playoffs: 29.9 PPG, 10.7 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.7 SPG, 2.0 BPG

NBA Championship: No

Amar'e Stoudemire had a phenomenal 2005 playoff run with the Phoenix Suns, establishing himself as one of the league's dominant big men. In his first 10 games, Stoudemire averaged 26.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 1.1 assists, 0.5 steals, and 2.2 blocks per game. His combination of scoring and rebounding, along with his defensive presence, made him a key player for the Suns.

Stoudemire's playoff performance was instrumental in the Suns' success, helping them advance past the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round and the Dallas Mavericks in the second round, where he had his best game with 44 points in Game 1. He consistently delivered high-energy performances, showcasing his athleticism and skill.

By the end of the playoffs, Stoudemire had improved his averages to 29.9 points, 10.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.7 steals, and 2.0 blocks per game. Despite his impressive efforts, the Suns' playoff run ended in the Western Conference Finals against the San Antonio Spurs, who went on to win the NBA Championship.

8. Jayson Tatum - 24.9 PPG (2020 NBA Playoffs)

Stats In First 10 Games: 24.9 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 4.0 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.2 BPG

Stats In the 2020 NBA Playoffs: 25.7 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.2 BPG

NBA Championship: No

Jayson Tatum's 2020 playoff run with the Boston Celtics was a breakout moment for the young forward. At just 22 years old, Tatum averaged 24.9 points per game over his first 10 games, along with 9.9 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 0.8 steals, and 1.2 blocks. His ability to score, rebound, and defend was crucial for the Celtics' success.

Tatum helped lead the Celtics past the Philadelphia 76ers in a first-round sweep and then through a hard-fought seven-game series against the Toronto Raptors in the second round, where in that 10-game span he had a 34-point showing on Game 2. Throughout the playoffs, Tatum maintained his high level of play, finishing with averages of 25.7 points, 10.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game.

The Celtics' playoff run ended in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat, but Tatum's performance solidified his status as one of the league's rising stars. His 2020 playoff run highlighted his potential and set the stage for future success in his career.

9. Russell Westbrook - 24.6 PPG (2011 NBA Playoffs)

Stats In First 10 Games: 24.6 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 6.6 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Stats In the 2011 NBA Playoffs: 23.8 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 6.4 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.4 BPG

NBA Championship: No

Russell Westbrook's 2011 playoff performance with the Oklahoma City Thunder showcased his explosive scoring and dynamic playmaking abilities. At 22 years old, Westbrook averaged 24.6 points per game over his first 10 games, along with 5.4 rebounds, 6.6 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.4 blocks. His relentless energy and aggressive play were key factors in the Thunder's success.

Westbrook helped lead the Thunder to victories over the Denver Nuggets in the first round and the Memphis Grizzlies in a grueling seven-game series in the second round. There, Westbrook had his best performance of that span with 40 points in Game 4. His ability to score in bunches and make plays for his teammates was instrumental in those series.

Overall, Westbrook finished the 2011 playoffs with averages of 23.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, 6.4 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game. The Thunder's playoff run ended in the Western Conference Finals against the Dallas Mavericks, who went on to win the NBA Championship.

10. Donovan Mitchell - 24.4 PPG (2018 NBA Playoffs)

Stats In First 10 Games: 24.4 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Stats In the 2018 NBA Playoffs: 24.4 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.4 BPG

NBA Championship: No

Donovan Mitchell made an immediate impact in his rookie season during the 2018 NBA Playoffs. Averaging 24.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.4 blocks over his first 10 games, Mitchell demonstrated he was ready for the big stage. His scoring ability and athleticism were key in leading the Utah Jazz past the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round, a series in which he outplayed several seasoned stars.

Mitchell's standout performance came in Game 6 against the Thunder, where he scored a career-high 38 points to help clinch the series. He maintained his high level of play throughout the playoffs, finishing with averages of 24.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game. The Jazz's playoff run ended in the second round against the Houston Rockets, but Mitchell's performance solidified his status as one of the league's top young talents.

Related: Every NBA Finals MVP's Combined Stats Over The Last 40 Seasons