The NBA playoffs are where legends are born—and where players we least expect suddenly become superstars. This year's postseason is no different, with a new crop of "playoff risers" stepping up when it matters most.
Remember Tayshaun Prince? Back in 2004, as a second-year player, he delivered one of the most iconic chasedown blocks in NBA history against Reggie Miller in the Eastern Conference Finals. That moment didn't just win a game for the Pistons—it launched Prince into a career of All-Defensive honors and a gold medal with the 2008 Redeem Team. That's the power of a playoff riser.
We've seen it before with stars like Jamal Murray, who consistently elevated his game in the postseason before earning his first All-Star nod, and Donovan Mitchell, who averaged an eye-popping 33.9 points per game on 46.4 percent three-point shooting during the 2020 and 2021 playoffs.
This year, the 2025-26 postseason is delivering its own crop of breakout performers. Here are the top playoff risers so far:
OG Anunoby – New York Knicks
2025-26 playoff stats: 21.0 ppg, 7.9 rpg, 1.1 apg, 1.6 spg, 1.1 bpg, 59.4 3PT%
No player has elevated their game more from the regular season to the playoffs than OG Anunoby. He's putting up numbers that would have sparked All-NBA conversations if he'd maintained them all year. A two-way force, Anunoby is knocking down threes at a blistering near-60 percent clip while averaging 2.7 steals and blocks per game. His scoring has reached All-Star levels, featuring tough off-the-dribble midrange jumpers and contested shots that define playoff basketball. With Anunoby playing at this level, it's no surprise the Knicks are viewed as a strong contender to emerge from the Eastern Conference.
Cade Cunningham – Detroit Pistons
The former No. 1 overall pick is finally showing why he was the top selection. Cunningham has been a steadying force for Detroit, elevating his playmaking and scoring under the bright lights of the postseason. His ability to control the tempo and hit clutch shots has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Ajay Mitchell – Oklahoma City Thunder
Mitchell has been a revelation for the Thunder, stepping up as a reliable scoring option off the bench. His quick first step and fearless drives to the rim have given Oklahoma City a much-needed spark, and his defensive tenacity has made him a fan favorite in the playoffs.
These players are proving that the postseason is where careers are defined. Whether it's a chasedown block, a three-point barrage, or a series-defining performance, the 2025-26 playoffs are writing the next chapter of NBA history—and these risers are leading the way.