When it comes to NBA Playoff performances by guards, you're talking about some epic moments and legendary careers that changed the game. Take Michael Jordan, for instance. In the 1997 NBA Finals, he dropped 38 points in Game 5 against the Utah Jazz despite being severely ill—dubbed the "Flu Game". Imagine that level of determination and skill. Jordan’s shooting percentage that game was about 48.4%, pretty solid considering the circumstances.
Now, you can’t discuss great playoff performances without mentioning Allen Iverson. In the 2001 NBA Finals, AI scored 48 points in Game 1 against the Los Angeles Lakers, a team fueled by Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant. His scoring ability and quickness on the court were unmatched. The efficiency with which he led the 76ers to that lone game win against the eventual champions was incredible.
We also have to give a nod to one of the more recent greats, Stephen Curry. His performance in Game 6 of the 2019 Western Conference Semifinals against the Houston Rockets is something to remember. Despite a dislocated finger, Curry scored 33 points in the second half, showcasing his unrivaled shooting talent and leadership. Over the entire game, he shot 52% from the field and virtually carried the Warriors to victory. Even though teams now heavily focus on three-point shootings, Curry's efficiency and range make him stellar in high-pressure playoff scenarios.
Let’s not forget Damian Lillard’s buzzer-beating three-pointer over Paul George of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the 2019 playoffs. Dame finished that game with an astonishing 50 points and effectively sent the Thunder home. His deep, game-winning three-pointer from about 37 feet out underlined his nickname, "Dame Time". The precision and confidence required to make that shot are beyond impressive.
Kobe Bryant had his fair share of playoff highlights, but Game 4 of the 2000 NBA Finals stands out. Against the Indiana Pacers, despite having an injured ankle, he scored 28 points and nabbed key rebounds down the stretch. He averaged 15 rebounds over the game, demonstrating not just scoring but a willingness to contribute however he could. Playing through significant pain, Kobe’s performance is a testament to his "Mamba Mentality".
Dwyane Wade's 2006 NBA Finals performance could best be described as heroic. In Game 3, he scored 42 points, leading the Miami Heat to their first NBA title. Over the series, Wade averaged a whopping 34.7 points per game. If you've watched those games, you’ll remember how he skillfully split defenses, drawing fouls, and getting to the free-throw line with unmatched efficiency.
In the 1995 NBA Finals, Penny Hardaway gave a remarkable performance in Game 3 despite the Orlando Magic losing to the Houston Rockets in the series. Penny scored 29 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, and dished out 7 assists. His ability to facilitate plays and score effectively was noticeable. Although his time in the spotlight was brief, Penny’s court vision and versatility are well remembered.
When Ray Allen’s name comes up, you probably remember his clutch three-pointer in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals. That shot sent the game into overtime, allowing the Miami Heat to eventually win the championship. That particular three-pointer showcased Allen’s legendary shooting accuracy and impeccable timing. Over his playoff career, Allen has maintained a three-point shooting percentage of around 40%, underscoring his consistency and sharpshooting skills.
Let’s also discuss Isiah Thomas of the Detroit Pistons. In the 1988 NBA Finals against the Lakers, despite spraining his ankle badly, he scored 25 points in the third quarter of Game 6—a Finals record. He ended the game with 43 points. Even with the Pistons eventually losing that series, Thomas's grit and scoring prowess left an indelible mark.
Clyde Drexler also deserves commendation for his 1992 NBA Finals performance. He may be overshadowed by contemporaries, but Drexler averaged 24.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in that series against the Chicago Bulls. Clyde’s all-around game and tenacity showed why he was one of the premier guards of his time.
Russell Westbrook, in the 2017 playoffs, also delivered some jaw-dropping numbers. In Game 2 of the first round against the Houston Rockets, he recorded a triple-double with 51 points, 13 assists, and 10 rebounds. That back-and-forth battle epitomized Westbrook’s relentless style and how he makes the most out of every possession.
Think about Jerry West, too. The "Logo" had a memorable performance during the 1969 NBA Finals, where he was named Finals MVP despite his team, the Lakers, losing to the Boston Celtics. In Game 1, he scored 53 points and averaged 37.9 points per game for the series. His scoring exploits earned him the nickname "Mr. Clutch" and had everyone in awe of his playoff prowess.
The young Luka Dončić also showed promise in the 2020 playoffs, scoring 43 points along with a buzzer-beater to win Game 4 against the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round. With such composure and skill at a young age, he’s undeniably one of the future stars in playoff history.
Kyrie Irving’s Game 7 performance in the 2016 NBA Finals deserves a mention, too. His three-pointer with less than a minute left gave the Cleveland Cavaliers a decisive lead over the Golden State Warriors, culminating in their first NBA championship. He scored 26 points in that game, showcasing his clutch gene and superior ball-handling skills. Want more insights like these? Feel free to check out arena plus.