Honoring the Best: A Look at NBA Playoff MVPs Through the Years

In the National Basketball Association, while players are recognized for their performances during the regular season and the Finals, there remains no official award for the best player throughout the entire postseason. This absence is curious, given the significant impact playoff performances can have on a player's legacy. To address this gap, we have compiled a list of Playoff MVPs from every postseason, tracing back to the BAA era.

For the 2026 postseason, Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks earned the title with an impressive average of 28.4 points, 6.1 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game. His crowning moment came during Game 5 of the Finals, where he scored a staggering 45 points, leading his team to victory and securing the championship. Despite ranking eighth in playoff VORP and 22nd in BPM, Brunson's ability to elevate his game under pressure and his overall influence on the court made him the clear choice for Playoff MVP.

In 2025, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder stood out by guiding his team to its first championship. Averaging 30 points, 6.3 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game, he not only won the Playoff MVP but also claimed the Finals MVP award. His exceptional shooting and foul-drawing abilities helped the Thunder navigate through tough playoff series, culminating in a commendable 16-7 record.

Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks was named the 2024 Playoff MVP despite his team falling short in the Finals against the Boston Celtics. Doncic averaged 28.9 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 8.1 assists, showcasing his talent by leading a modest Mavericks squad deep into the playoffs. His performance against elite players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Paul George solidified his status as the standout player of that postseason.

In 2023, Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets dominated the playoffs, averaging 30 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 9.5 assists en route to the championship. His consistent excellence throughout the postseason earned him both the Playoff MVP and Finals MVP, as he led his team with unmatched skill against formidable opponents.

Finally, in 2022, Stephen Curry captured the accolade after helping the Golden State Warriors secure the title against the Celtics. With averages of 27.4 points, 5.9 assists, and 5.2 rebounds, Curry's pivotal contributions in the Finals, especially in Game 4, highlighted his significant role in the team's success.

This examination of Playoff MVPs reflects not only individual brilliance but also the importance of these performances in shaping NBA history.