The NBA playoffs are always an exciting time for basketball fans, filled with intense games, buzzer-beaters, and bold predictions. And this year, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith has once again sparked a heated debate with his latest ranking of the top clutch shooters in the postseason.
In a recent segment on ESPN’s “First Take,” Smith unveiled his top five list, and it’s safe to say that his rankings have caused quite a stir among fans and analysts alike. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at who made the cut and who was left out.
At number five, Smith placed Kawhi Leonard, the star forward for the Los Angeles Clippers. While Leonard is undoubtedly a talented player, his placement at number five may come as a surprise to some. After all, he has a reputation for being a clutch performer, with multiple game-winning shots under his belt. However, Smith argues that Leonard’s inconsistent performances in the playoffs this year have earned him a lower spot on the list.
Next up is Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics, who takes the fourth spot on Smith’s list. Tatum has been on fire this postseason, averaging 25.3 points per game and leading the Celtics to the Eastern Conference Finals. He has also hit some clutch shots, including a game-winning three-pointer against the Toronto Raptors in Game 2 of the second round. However, Smith believes that Tatum still has a lot to prove before he can be considered one of the top clutch shooters in the league.
Coming in at number three is Jamal Murray of the Denver Nuggets. Murray has been a revelation in the playoffs, averaging 26.6 points per game and leading the Nuggets to an unexpected appearance in the Western Conference Finals. He has also hit some incredible shots, including a game-winning three-pointer in Game 2 of the first round against the Utah Jazz. Smith praises Murray’s poise and confidence in clutch situations, making him a worthy addition to the list.
In the second spot, Smith placed Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat. Butler has been the heart and soul of the Heat this postseason, averaging 21.8 points per game and leading them to the Eastern Conference Finals. He has also hit some clutch shots, including a game-winning three-pointer against the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 2 of the second round. Smith believes that Butler’s leadership and determination make him one of the most clutch players in the league.
And finally, at the top of the list, Smith named none other than Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers. Lillard has been on an absolute tear in the playoffs, averaging 30.5 points per game and hitting some incredible shots, including a game-winning three-pointer against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 5 of the first round. Smith argues that Lillard’s ability to perform under pressure and his track record of hitting clutch shots make him the most reliable shooter in the playoffs.
While Smith’s rankings may be up for debate, one thing is for sure – these five players have proven themselves to be clutch performers in the postseason. They have all hit game-winning shots and led their teams to victory in high-pressure situations, earning them a spot on Smith’s list.
But let’s not forget that there are many other players who could have easily made the cut, such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Kyrie Irving. And as the playoffs continue, we may see some new names emerge as clutch performers.
In the end, it’s all a matter of opinion, and Smith’s rankings are just one perspective. What matters most is that these players continue to deliver in the clutch and provide us with unforgettable moments in the playoffs. So, let’s sit back, enjoy the games, and see who will rise to the occasion and make their mark as the most clutch shooter in the NBA playoffs.
