10 x-factor players who could swing the 2025 nba playoffs
The NBA Playoffs are usually driven by the biggest stars — Finals MVPs are rarely a surprise, and more often than not, Hall of Famers are the ones dragging teams through seven-game wars. However, identifying the 10 X-Factor Players for NBA Playoffs can provide insight into the under-the-radar talents that might influence the outcomes.
But basketball is still a team game. Even with tight rotations and big minutes for starters, it’s often the role players and complementary pieces who tip the scales. Think Robert Horry. John Paxson. Bruce Brown. KCP. Otto Porter Jr. Championship teams are built on moments from players like these.
Here are 10 X-factors who might not be leading the MVP race — but could absolutely decide a series (or two) this postseason.
Quinten Post – Golden State Warriors
The Warriors are 18–2 when Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler start together. Draymond Green is a DPOY frontrunner. This team looks dangerous again.
Quinten Post won’t be closing games, but the 7-footer will be crucial in spot minutes at the five — stretching the floor, protecting the rim, and giving Kerr options. If he can provide 15 solid minutes a night, Golden State becomes a legitimate Finals threat.
De’Andre Hunter – Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland’s still searching for the perfect fifth starter. Hunter, with his shooting and size, might be it.
Since joining the Cavs, he’s hit over 43% from three. The defense hasn’t quite lived up to expectations, but that’s where Cleveland needs him most. If he locks in on that end, he fits beautifully next to Mitchell and Garland.
Jalen Williams – Oklahoma City Thunder
He’s already an All-Star, but Jalen Williams is key to OKC’s title hopes.
Last postseason wasn’t his best. Now, he’ll be tasked with secondary creation, spacing the floor, and running the offense when Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sits. If he thrives in that role, OKC could go all the way.
Jamal Murray – Denver Nuggets
Murray’s a star, but his recent inconsistency puts him in X-factor territory.
When he’s at his best, his two-man game with Jokic is un-guardable. But Denver’s margin for error is thin, and they can’t win the West without Murray playing at his 2023 playoff level. It’s that simple.
Derrick Jones Jr. – Los Angeles Clippers
Jones has quietly improved his outside shot (36.5% this season) and is one of the Clippers’ most versatile defenders.
His length and athleticism give L.A. real matchup flexibility — especially against wings like Jimmy Butler or Anthony Edwards. If Lue goes small, Jones could even see minutes at the five. Not bad for a guy who entered the year as a rotation question mark.
Gabe Vincent – Los Angeles Lakers
After a slow start in L.A., Vincent is starting to look like the gritty two-way guard who thrived with Miami in the playoffs.
He’s a strong fit alongside LeBron and Luka — providing spacing and defensive toughness. He could be a major difference-maker in guard-heavy matchups against teams like Memphis or Golden State.
Jabari Smith Jr. – Houston Rockets
Houston’s playoff ceiling may hinge on Jabari Smith Jr.
He’s played both the four and the five, but the Rockets looked their best last season with him at center. If he can stretch the floor, defend bigs, and find his rhythm, he might be Houston’s best lineup answer against top-tier teams.
Aaron Nesmith – Indiana Pacers
Nesmith might be the most underrated player on a surging Pacers team.
He’ll be tasked with guarding stars like Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland, while also knocking down threes in Indiana’s run-and-gun offense. He’s a two-way swing piece for a team that could cause trouble in the East.
Julius Randle – Minnesota Timberwolves
Randle’s playoff track record isn’t great — but he has a chance to flip the narrative in Minnesota.
Now a secondary option behind Anthony Edwards, Randle needs to focus on efficient scoring, smart passing, and not trying to do too much. If he buys into the role, this Wolves team can make serious noise.
Ausar Thompson – Detroit Pistons
Ausar Thompson has quietly become a defensive cornerstone in Detroit.
He’s a freak athlete, averaging 2.6 stocks and nearly 11 points since becoming a full-time starter. His defensive versatility will be key if the Pistons want to make noise in a likely first-round matchup against Indiana.
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