THE MOST PLAYOFF EXPERIENCED PLAYER ON EVERY NBA PLAYOFF TEAM IN 2023-24

Every NBA team in the 2023-24 playoffs has an experienced player who can make a difference for their side. LeBron James is the obvious one for the Los Angeles Lakers, having played in a total of 284 playoff games, which is more than 15 NBA franchises in their history. Experience is critical in any playoff series, and we have named every playoff team’s senior member this season.

Eastern Conference

Boston Celtics - Al Horford (168 Games)

At 37 years old, Al Horford's veteran presence and playoff experience make him a valuable asset for any team, especially as a backup big man. Horford has played a significant number of his playoff games with the Atlanta Hawks (eight seasons) before joining the Boston Celtics. His experience in high-stakes playoff situations and his ability to perform consistently at a high level make him a reliable option off the bench.

As a veteran backup to Kristaps Porzingis, Horford brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table to help talented but still improving stars Jayston Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Hopefully, Horford’s knowledge can make the Celtics better in critical games because that has been the team’s downfall in recent seasons.

New York Knicks - Bojan Bogdanovic (49 Games)

The New York Knicks have undergone significant changes to their roster, bringing in new faces like Julius Randle, Jalen Brunson, and OG Anunoby. As a result, the team has become younger and more energetic, with a mix of talent and potential that could make them a force in the playoffs in the coming years.

Bojan Bogdanovic, acquired before the trade deadline this season, adds a veteran presence and playoff experience to the Knicks' roster. As a 35-year-old two-way swingman, Bogdanovic brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of playoff appearances with five trams including two with the Utah Jazz.

Milwaukee Bucks - Jae Crowder (113 Games)

Jae Crowder, a 33-year-old forward known for his tenacious defense and gritty style of play, has had a pivotal role in the Phoenix Suns' 2021 Finals run. He has also played for the Boston Celtics alongside Isaiah Thomas and spent one season with the Miami Heat. Crowder's playoff experience, defensive intensity, and win-now mentality make him a valuable asset for the Bucks.

Crowder has been through the playoff battles and understands what it takes to win at the highest level. His defensive prowess, versatility, and ability to hit timely shots make him a crucial piece for a team with championship aspirations.

Cleveland Cavaliers - Tristan Thompson (94 Games)

While Donovan Mitchell is undoubtedly the best player on the Cavaliers' roster, his playoff experience is relatively limited with only 45 games under his belt. This is where Tristan Thompson's experience becomes crucial for the team. Despite being a bench player, Thompson's 94 playoff games bring a wealth of knowledge and understanding of what it takes to succeed in the postseason.

The Cavaliers are currently a team with a mix of young, talented players like Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, and seasoned veterans like Tristan Thompson. This blend of youth and experience gives the Cavaliers a balanced roster with the potential to surprise in the playoffs because they are up 2-0 against the inexperienced Orlando Magic in the first round.

Orlando Magic - Joe Ingles (52 Games)

Joe Ingles holds the title of the most experienced playoff performer on the current Orlando Magic roster, having appeared in 52 playoff games. At 36 years old, Ingles was brought in to fortify the experience on the team, which is led by last year's Rookie of the Year, Paolo Banchero.

While Ingles is a role player, his sharpshooting ability and playoff experience, primarily gained during his five seasons with the Utah Jazz, make him a valuable asset for the Magic even if he only averaged 17.2 minutes per game over the regular season.

Indiana Pacers - Pascal Siakam (55 Games)

The Indiana Pacers franchise is still looking for their first NBA title and Pascal Siakam is the most experienced playoff performer on the current roster, having appeared in 55 playoff games. Acquired before the trade deadline, Siakam earned all of his playoff experience with the Toronto Raptors.

He played a crucial role in the Raptors' 2019 Finals run, winning the NBA title against the Golden State Warriors alongside Hall of Famer Kawhi Leonard. Siakam brings championship experience, versatility, and a high level of play to the Pacers. Hopefully, All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton can benefit from Siakam's presence and take that next step forward because they have a tall task ahead of them against the Milwaukee Bucks.

Philadelphia 76ers - Kyle Lowry (132 Games)

Kyle Lowry holds the title of the most experienced playoff performer on the current Philadelphia 76ers roster, having appeared in 132 playoff games. Now in his 18th NBA season, Lowry brings a wealth of playoff experience and leadership to the 76ers. He spent seven seasons with the Toronto Raptors, winning an NBA championship in 2019.

Lowry also has two seasons of playoff experience with the Miami Heat and one with the 76ers this season. His playoff pedigree, competitive spirit, and ability to make clutch plays make him a vital asset for the 76ers who aim to come back from an 0-2 series deficit against the New York Knicks.

Miami Heat - Jimmy Butler (119 Games)

The Heat have been a model of consistency and success, with seven trips to the NBA Finals and three championships to their name and Jimmy Butler is the most experienced playoff performer on the current Miami Heat roster, having appeared in 119 playoff games. Since LeBron James left Miami, Butler has taken over the franchise as the next-best star.

As the key defender and leader, Butler has led the Heat to two NBA Finals appearances. With his relentless work ethic, competitive spirit, and ability to elevate his game in clutch moments, Butler brings invaluable playoff experience and leadership to the Heat. Making his third Finals appearance with the Heat, as he approaches 35 years old, would almost be a miracle because he is out for a few weeks with his side playing the title-favorite Boston Celtics.

Western Conference

Oklahoma City Thunder - Bismack Biyombo (40 Games)

While the Thunder are currently in a contending phase again, they have a promising young core led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams who did not have enough time to become experienced playoff members of the team. Surprisingly, Bismack Biyombo is the most experienced playoff performer on the current Oklahoma City Thunder roster, having appeared in 40 playoff games.

Despite being a bench player, Biyombo brings valuable playoff experience to a young Thunder team. He played 20 games with the Toronto Raptors during their 2015-16 postseason run. Biyombo's experience and defensive presence could be crucial for the Thunder, especially if he earns more minutes in the playoff lineup.

Denver Nuggets - Reggie Jackson (77 Games)

Led by their MVP center, Nikola Jokic, and talented guard Jamal Murray, the Nuggets have become a force to be reckoned with in the postseason. Jokic has appeared in 70 playoff games, but Reggie Jackson holds the title of the most experienced playoff performer on the current Denver Nuggets roster, having appeared in 77 playoff games.

Serving as Jamal Murray's backup, Jackson brings valuable playoff experience to the Nuggets. He has made playoff appearances with four different teams, including the Clippers, Thunder, and Pistons. Known for his steady point guard play and scoring ability, Jackson aims to be a valuable piece for the reigning champion Nuggets who are up 2-0 against the Lakers this postseason.

Minnesota Timberwolves - Mike Conley (80 Games)

Mike Conley is the most experienced playoff performer on the current Minnesota Timberwolves roster, having appeared in 80 playoff games. While he has only played six playoff games with the Timberwolves, Conley's playoff experience mainly comes from his time with the Memphis Grizzlies.

Known for his steady play, leadership, and defensive prowess, Conley brings valuable playoff experience to an improving Timberwolves team looking to establish a winning culture. A team that already has Anthony Edwards needs to tap into experience and veteran leadership, because star power likely won't be an issue going forward.

Los Angeles Clippers - James Harden (162 Games)

Led by their stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, the Los Angeles Clippers have established themselves as contenders in the Western Conference, and their roster is filled with veterans including head coach Ty Lue. James Harden holds the title of the most experienced playoff performer on the current Los Angeles Clippers roster, having appeared in 162 playoff games. Despite being new to the Clippers, Harden brings a wealth of playoff experience to the team.

He started his career as the sixth man for the Oklahoma City Thunder and has made the playoffs every season of his career, including successful stints with the Houston Rockets. A future Hall of Famer, Harden is in pursuit of a championship to solidify his legacy, especially since his only Finals appearance came as a bench player in 2012.

Dallas Mavericks - Kyrie Irving (76 Games)

With a new era led by young superstar Luka Doncic, the Dallas Mavericks are looking to build on their legacy and make deep playoff runs. Kyrie Irving is the most experienced playoff performer on the current Dallas Mavericks roster, having appeared in 76 playoff games. Acquired last season, Irving brings a wealth of playoff experience from his days with the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he played alongside LeBron James.

Known for his elite scoring and ball-handling skills, Irving can be a valuable asset alongside Luka Doncic. With the Slovenian having only 30 playoff games to his name, Irving's presence, and experience will be crucial in guiding and supporting the young Mavericks' star.

Phoenix Suns - Kevin Durant (168 Games)

Kevin Durant is the most experienced playoff performer on the current Phoenix Suns roster, having appeared in 168 playoff games. Since Chris Paul is no longer part of the team and Devin Booker only has 45 playoff games to his name, it is up to Durant to be the difference-maker in their fortunes.

Durant has experienced the full spectrum of NBA success, from being the number one option on his team to playing on multiple superteams. He has appeared in over 160 playoff games, won two NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors, and earned two Finals MVP awards. His scoring prowess, versatility, and playoff experience make Durant a valuable asset for the Suns as they look to build on their recent success.

Los Angeles Lakers - LeBron James (284 Games)

With one of the most successful franchises ever, LeBron James is the most experienced playoff performer on the current Los Angeles Lakers roster, having appeared in 284 playoff games. Throughout his illustrious career with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron has solidified his status as one of the all-time greats in NBA history.

As the oldest player in the NBA and the most experienced player in the league, LeBron brings invaluable leadership, playoff experience, and a championship mindset to the Lakers. His impact was most recently felt during the Lakers' championship run in the 2020 season, where he was a difference-maker and led the team to the NBA title and it might not be possible for him to come back from a 0-2 deficit against the Nuggets this season.

New Orleans Pelicans - CJ McCollum (64 Games)

Despite their young history, the Pelicans have a promising young core led by Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. With a focus on improvement and growth, the Pelicans are looking to establish themselves as a competitive team in the Western Conference. CJ McCollum is the most experienced playoff performer on the current New Orleans Pelicans roster, having appeared in 64 playoff games.

Acquired two seasons ago, McCollum has been a valuable addition to the Pelicans' roster. Known for his scoring ability and playoff experience, McCollum formed a dynamic playoff duo with Damian Lillard in Portland and brings important playoff experience to the young Pelicans team.

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2024-04-24T13:16:50Z dg43tfdfdgfd