The 2021 NBA Playoff Schedule was a thrilling ride for basketball fans. It started on May 22, 2021, featuring some of the most intense matchups in recent years. The playoffs included 16 teams, with 8 from the Eastern Conference and 8 from the Western Conference, battling it out in a best-of-seven series format that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.
The first round was packed with excitement, including standout performances from stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and LeBron James. The Milwaukee Bucks faced the Miami Heat, a rematch of their 2020 playoff series. Milwaukee dominated with a 4-0 sweep, showing their improved efficiency and defensive prowess. They shot 47.7% from the field, clearly a jump from their regular-season average, indicating their readiness for a deep playoff run.
A significant industry term you often hear in playoffs is "clutch performance", and we saw a lot of that. During the First Round, Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers demonstrated why he is one of the most clutch players in the NBA. In Game 5 against the Denver Nuggets, Lillard scored 55 points, hitting 12 three-pointers, which broke the record for the most three-pointers in a playoff game. Unfortunately for the Blazers, despite Lillard's heroics, the Nuggets won the series 4-2, showcasing the unpredictability and competitive spirit of the playoffs.
One can't forget about the Brooklyn Nets, who, with their star-studded lineup featuring Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving, were heavy favorites. They faced the Boston Celtics in the First Round. The Nets averaged an impressive 118.3 points per game in this series, demonstrating their offensive power. Despite Jaylen Brown's absence due to wrist surgery, the Celtics managed to steal one game, but the Nets moved on with a 4-1 series win.
In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Bucks faced the Atlanta Hawks. The Hawks, led by the young sensation Trae Young, were the underdogs, but they managed to push the series to six games. The Bucks eventually prevailed 4-2, with Giannis putting up 28.2 points per game on average throughout the series. His dominant inside presence and the Bucks' solid defense were crucial factors in their victories.
On the Western side, the Phoenix Suns' journey was nothing short of spectacular. Chris Paul, a veteran point guard, and Devin Booker, a young shooting guard, formed a dynamic duo. The Suns swept the Denver Nuggets in the Second Round, clinching the series 4-0. Chris Paul's leadership and Booker's scoring prowess, with Booker averaging 25.6 points per game during the playoffs, were key reasons for their success.
The Western Conference Finals saw the Suns facing the Los Angeles Clippers. The Suns secured this series with a 4-2 win, and this series was particularly notable for Paul George's efforts for the Clippers. Even though the Clippers missed Kawhi Leonard due to an ACL injury, George stepped up, averaging 29.6 points per game in the Western Conference Finals. However, it wasn't enough to overcome the well-rounded Suns team.
The Finals were highly anticipated. The Milwaukee Bucks vs. the Phoenix Suns promised an exciting battle, with both teams having strong seasons. The Bucks clinched the championship in six games, winning the series 4-2. Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered a historic performance in Game 6, scoring 50 points, a number that will be remembered for years to come. Giannis also won the Finals MVP, solidifying his place among the NBA greats.
If you want to see the complete breakdown of the playoff schedule and more details, just click here: nba schedule playoffs 2021. The 2021 NBA Playoffs showcased talent, drama, and unforgettable moments. The blend of emerging young stars and seasoned veterans made this season one for the history books.