Ranking The 10 Best NBA Players Currently Playing In The Conference Finals

As the NBA Conference Finals heat up, the pressure is on for the league's brightest stars to lead their teams to victory. This year's playoffs have been nothing short of spectacular, with jaw-dropping performances, clutch plays, and unforgettable moments. Among the sea of talent, a select few have risen above the rest, showcasing their skills and determination in every game.

In the Eastern Conference, the Boston Celtics have taken an early 1-0 lead against the Indiana Pacers after a thrilling overtime victory. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown have been pivotal in their success, with Tatum's late-game heroics and Brown's consistent scoring proving crucial. Meanwhile, the Western Conference Finals feature the Dallas Mavericks 1-0 against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

In this article, we rank the 10 best players in the Conference Finals right now, after highlighting the best 10 players who have yet to reach a Conference Finals in their careers . These players have not only delivered exceptional performances but have also become the driving forces behind their teams' success in this high-stakes environment.

1. Luka Doncic

Luka Doncic has been a tour de force for the Dallas Mavericks throughout the 2024 playoffs, showcasing why he's considered one of the league's elite players. His remarkable averages of 27.3 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 9.1 assists per game highlight his ability to impact the game in multiple facets. But it's not just the numbers that stand out; it's the context in which he achieves them.

Doncic has been instrumental in leading the Mavericks through tough series, including a standout performance against the Los Angeles Clippers where he posted 35 points, 7 rebounds, and 10 assists despite battling a knee injury and illness. This game exemplified his resilience and ability to rise to the occasion under adversity.

Moreover, Luka's playmaking has been crucial, consistently setting up his teammates and orchestrating the offense with precision. His leadership on the court, combined with his scoring prowess, makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. In clutch moments, Doncic has delivered time and again, whether it's a game-winning shot or a pivotal assist, demonstrating his clutch gene and basketball IQ.

His ability to stay calm under pressure and make smart decisions has been a significant factor in the Mavericks' success this postseason. As the Mavericks compete in the highly competitive Western Conference Finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Doncic's performance will undoubtedly be pivotal in determining their fate after stealing Game 1, where he notched 33 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists, and 3 steals.

2. Anthony Edwards

Anthony Edwards has been a revelation in the 2024 playoffs, solidifying his status as a rising superstar in the NBA. His explosive performances have been instrumental in the Minnesota Timberwolves ' deep playoff run. Edwards has been averaging an impressive 28.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, showcasing his all-around impact on the court.

Edwards has delivered some of the most memorable moments of the postseason, including a 43-point game against the Denver Nuggets, which helped the Timberwolves secure a crucial victory in the series. His ability to take over games with his scoring prowess has made him a go-to player in clutch situations. Not only has he been efficient from the field, but his defensive contributions have also been significant, adding to his value on both ends of the floor.

Edwards' historic performances have not only drawn comparisons to franchise legends like Kevin Garnett but have also established him as a key figure in the Timberwolves' future. As the Wolves battle it out in the Western Conference Finals against the Dallas Mavericks, Edwards' contributions will be crucial in determining their success after a 19-point, 11-rebound performance in Game 1.

3. Kyrie Irving

Kyrie Irving has been a pivotal figure for the Dallas Mavericks in the 2024 playoffs, bringing his wealth of experience and clutch play to the forefront. Averaging 21.1 points, 5.4 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game, Irving has been essential in orchestrating the Mavericks' offense and providing critical scoring in key moments.

Irving's performance against the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round was particularly noteworthy. In the decisive Game 6, he scored a game-high 30 points, showcasing his ability to take over games when it matters most. His second-half performances have been a game-changer, often lifting the Mavericks when they needed it the most. This was evident in the series against the Clippers, where his play helped the Mavericks clinch the series and move forward in the playoffs.

Irving's playoff experience is invaluable, and his leadership on and off the court has been a stabilizing force for the Mavericks. As the Mavericks fight through the Western Conference Finals, Irving's presence and performance will be key in their quest for a championship since he started the series with 30 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists.

4. Jayson Tatum

Jayson Tatum has been the driving force behind the Boston Celtics ' playoff success this year. Averaging 26.9 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, Tatum has shown his ability to impact all facets of the game. His versatility and leadership have been crucial for the Celtics as they navigate the challenges of the postseason.

Tatum’s standout moment came with a triple-double in the opening game against the Miami Heat, where he scored 23 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and dished out 10 assists, leading the Celtics to a crucial victory.

Despite facing criticism earlier in the playoffs, Tatum has consistently delivered when it matters most. His scoring efficiency and ability to step up in clutch moments have been pivotal, especially in tight games. His 36-point performance against the Indiana Pacers in the Conference Finals Game 1 was instrumental in the Celtics' overtime win, giving them an early lead in the series.

As the Celtics aim for the NBA Finals, Tatum's contributions on both ends of the floor will continue to be vital. His ability to adapt and excel in high-pressure situations makes him one of the most valuable players in the playoffs this year.

5. Tyrese Haliburton

Tyrese Haliburton has been a standout performer for the Indiana Pacers during the 2024 playoffs, establishing himself as one of the premier playmakers in the league. Averaging 19.3 points, 8.2 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game, Haliburton's versatility and court vision have been key to the Pacers' success. His ability to both score and facilitate has made him a dual threat on the floor.

One of Haliburton's most memorable performances came in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the New York Knicks, where he notched 35 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds, leading the Pacers to a critical overtime victory. His clutch play in the final moments of the game showcased his composure and ability to deliver under pressure.

Haliburton's shooting efficiency, particularly from beyond the arc, has been a significant asset for the Pacers, helping to spread the floor and create opportunities for his teammates. His leadership and poise have been evident throughout the playoffs, guiding this Indiana team through tough matchups and into the Conference Finals.

6. Jaylen Brown

Jaylen Brown has been a critical contributor for the Boston Celtics during the 2024 playoffs, showcasing his scoring ability and defensive prowess. Averaging 23.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, Brown has been consistent in providing the Celtics with the offensive firepower needed to advance through the postseason.

In Game 1 of the Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers, Brown delivered an outstanding performance with 26 points, which played a pivotal role in the Celtics' overtime victory. His shooting efficiency has been notable, particularly his ability to score in crucial moments. Brown’s defensive efforts have also been significant, often guarding the opponent's best players and making impactful plays.

Brown's growth as a player has been evident this postseason. His ability to step up in high-pressure situations and lead the team alongside Jayson Tatum has made the Celtics a formidable opponent. As the Celtics continue their pursuit of a championship, Brown's contributions on both ends of the floor will be essential in their quest for success.

7. Pascal Siakam

Leading the Indiana Pacers with his remarkable consistency, Pascal Siakam has been a standout performer in the 2024 playoffs. His averages of 21.3 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game highlight his versatility and impact on the court.

Siakam's influence was particularly evident in the first-round series against the Milwaukee Bucks. In Game 2, he delivered a dominant 37-point performance, along with 11 rebounds and 6 assists, securing a 125-108 victory for the Pacers. This followed his impressive 36-point, 13-rebound effort in Game 1, demonstrating his ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes situations.

His championship experience from his time with the Toronto Raptors in 2019 has been invaluable for the Pacers. Siakam's ability to stay composed under pressure and lead by example has been crucial for a relatively young Pacers squad. As they continue their playoff run, Siakam's performance will be vital. His consistent scoring, rebounding, and defensive skills make him one of the top players this postseason.

8. Karl-Anthony Towns

Shining brightly for the Minnesota Timberwolves, Karl-Anthony Towns has been a pivotal player throughout the 2024 playoffs. His averages of 18.8 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game underscore his importance to the team's success.

Towns' ability to influence the game was evident in several key matchups. For instance, in the second-round series against the Denver Nuggets, Towns delivered a critical 23-point, 12-rebound performance in Game 7 that helped secure a Conference Finals ticket for the Timberwolves. His combination of size, skill, and versatility makes him a constant threat both offensively and defensively.

Despite battling through a challenging season, including overcoming injuries, Towns has maintained his focus and intensity, proving his resilience and dedication to the team. His leadership and experience have been invaluable for the Timberwolves as they navigate the pressures of the playoffs.

As the Timberwolves continue to compete in the Western Conference Finals, Towns' contributions will be essential in their pursuit of advancing to the NBA Finals after a bad game with 16 points on 6-of-20 from the field in Game 1.

9. Myles Turner

The Indiana Pacers' journey through the 2024 playoffs has been significantly bolstered by Myles Turner's stellar play. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively has been vital to the team's success. Averaging 17.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, Turner has demonstrated his value on both ends of the court.

Defensively, Turner has been a force to be reckoned with. In the decisive Game 6 of the First Round against the Milwaukee Bucks, he posted 24 points and four blocks, a performance that was crucial in propelling the Pacers to victory. His shot-blocking and rim protection have been key elements of the Pacer's defensive scheme.

Turner’s offensive contributions are equally impressive. In the Conference Finals opener against the Boston Celtics, he started with a bang, scoring 18 points in the first half and finishing with 23 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and two blocks.

As the Pacers strive to advance further in the postseason, Turner's consistent scoring, rebounding, and defensive prowess will be indispensable. His performances so far highlight his importance to the team and his capability to step up in crucial moments.

10. Derrick White

Rising to the occasion when it matters most, Derrick White has been instrumental in the Boston Celtics' playoff journey this year. With impressive averages of 17.9 points, 4.3 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game, White has consistently delivered for his team.

In Game 4 of the first round against the Miami Heat, White turned heads with a career-high 38 points, including eight 3-pointers, leading the Celtics to a decisive victory. His shooting accuracy and clutch performance were again on display in the Conference Semifinals against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he hit seven 3-pointers in Game 1, significantly contributing to the Celtic's commanding win.

White’s ability to excel under pressure has made him a key player for the Celtics. His scoring consistency and defensive tenacity have provided the Boston team with the edge needed in critical moments. As the Celtics aim for the championship, White's role and performance will be crucial, highlighting his importance to the team's overall success.

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