The 2024 NBA Finals have arrived, with the Dallas Mavericks and the Boston Celtics ready to compete for the championship title. This highly anticipated series showcases players who have accumulated substantial experience in the NBA Finals throughout their careers. From seasoned veterans to emerging stars, these athletes have made significant contributions to their teams’ successes on the biggest stage. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the NBA Finals records of key players from both teams.
- Players Who Never Played In The NBA Finals
- Players Who Played In The NBA Finals Before
- 1. Kyrie Irving – 1-2 In Series (5-8 Game-Record)
- 2. Jrue Holiday – 1-0 In Series (4-2 Game-Record)
- 3. Al Horford – 0-1 In Series (2-4 Game-Record)
- 4. Jaylen Brown – 0-1 In Series (2-4 Game-Record)
- 5. Jayson Tatum – 0-1 In Series (2-4 Game-Record)
- 6. Derrick White – 0-1 In Series (2-4 Game-Record)
- 7. Payton Pritchard – 0-1 In Series (2-4 Game-Record)
- 8. Markieff Morris – 1-0 In Series (4-2 Game-Record)
- 9. Sam Hauser – 0-1 In Series (2-3 Game-Record)
- 10. Derrick Jones Jr. – 0-1 In Series (0-4 Game-Record)
- 11. Luke Kornet – 0-1 In Series (0-3 Game-Record)
By examining their career Finals records, we aim to highlight the pivotal moments and significant contributions that have paved the way for their current success. Whether it’s Luka Doncic’s first trip or Jayson Tatum’s chance for redemption, these players have demonstrated their ability to excel when it matters most to lead their teams to this stage.
Players Who Never Played In The NBA Finals
Dallas Mavericks: Luka Doncic, PJ Washington, Daniel Gafford, Dereck Lively II, Josh Green, Jaden Hardy, Maxi Kleber, Dante Exum, Dwight Powell, AJ Lawson, Tim Hardaway Jr.
Boston Celtics: Kristaps Porzingis, Xavier Tillman, Oshae Brissett, Svi Mykhailiuk, Neemias Queta, Jaden Springer, Jordan Walsh
For the Dallas Mavericks, the 2024 NBA Finals mark a new chapter, as the majority of their roster is experiencing this stage for the first time. Players like Luka Doncic, PJ Washington, and Tim Hardaway Jr. are making their Finals debuts, bringing excitement and a fresh perspective to the team. This newfound opportunity provides a platform for these players to showcase their talent and resilience on the biggest stage of their careers.
On the other hand, the Boston Celtics bring a mix of seasoned experience and fresh faces. Having reached the NBA Finals in 2022, the Celtics are no strangers to this level of competition. While players like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown have been here before and know what it takes to compete at this level, the roster also includes new additions such as Kristaps Porzingis and Oshae Brissett, who are eager to make their mark. This blend of experience and new energy positions the Celtics as a well-rounded and formidable opponent in this year’s Finals.
Players Who Played In The NBA Finals Before
1. Kyrie Irving – 1-2 In Series (5-8 Game-Record)
Kyrie Irving brings extensive NBA Finals experience to the Dallas Mavericks, having played in three Finals series with the Cleveland Cavaliers. His Finals journey began in 2015, although it was cut short by injury after Game 1. In 2016, Irving delivered one of the most memorable performances in Finals history. He averaged 27.1 points, 3.9 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game, highlighted by his game-winning three-pointer in Game 7, where he scored 26 points. This shot helped the Cavaliers complete their historic comeback from a 3-1 deficit to defeat the Golden State Warriors.
In the 2017 Finals, Irving continued to excel, averaging 29.4 points, 4.4 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game, although the Cavaliers ultimately lost to the Warriors in five games. His 40-point performance in Game 4 was a standout, showcasing his scoring ability and resilience.
In the 2024 playoffs, Irving has been pivotal for the Mavericks, averaging 22.8 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game in 17 games. His leadership and experience have been crucial, especially in guiding younger players making their Finals debut. Notable performances this postseason include a 36-point outburst in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he also added 5 assists and 4 rebounds, leading Dallas to a decisive victory.
Irving’s ability to take over games in critical moments has been a driving force for the Mavericks throughout the postseason. As they head into the Finals, his extensive experience and proven track record in clutch situations make him a vital asset for Dallas as they compete for the championship.
2. Jrue Holiday – 1-0 In Series (4-2 Game-Record)
Jrue Holiday played a pivotal role in the Milwaukee Bucks’ 2021 NBA Finals victory over the Phoenix Suns. In that series, Holiday’s performance was crucial on both ends of the floor. He averaged 16.7 points, 9.3 assists, and 6.2 rebounds per game, providing the Bucks with much-needed playmaking and defensive prowess. His standout moment came in Game 5, where he recorded 27 points, 13 assists, and three steals, including a game-saving steal and alley-oop assist to Giannis Antetokounmpo that sealed the victory.
During the 2024 playoffs, Holiday has been a steady presence for the Boston Celtics, averaging 12.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.6 assists in 14 games. His leadership and experience have been instrumental in guiding a team that combines seasoned veterans with young talents. Notable performances include a 22-point, 8-rebound game against the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, where his defense and playmaking were key to the Celtics’ success.
Holiday’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations has been crucial for Boston. His past Finals experience is expected to play a significant role as the Celtics compete for another championship, providing stability and clutch play when it matters most.
3. Al Horford – 0-1 In Series (2-4 Game-Record)
Al Horford’s NBA Finals experience came with the Boston Celtics in 2022, where they faced the Golden State Warriors. In that series, Horford played a significant role, averaging 12.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. His veteran presence and leadership were crucial for the Celtics, especially in Game 1, where he scored 26 points, including six three-pointers, to help Boston secure a victory.
In the 2024 playoffs, Horford has continued to be a reliable contributor for the Celtics. He has averaged 9.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game in 14 games, providing steady defense and crucial plays in key moments. His experience and calm under pressure have been vital for a Celtics team looking to leverage their past Finals experience to push for another championship.
Horford’s ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and his defensive versatility make him an indispensable part of the Celtics’ lineup. As Boston heads into the Finals, Horford’s past experience and steady play will be essential in their quest for the title.
4. Jaylen Brown – 0-1 In Series (2-4 Game-Record)
Jaylen Brown’s NBA Finals experience comes from the Boston Celtics’ 2022 matchup against the Golden State Warriors. In that series, Brown was a standout performer, averaging 23.5 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game over six games. His contributions were vital in several games, particularly in Game 3, where he scored 27 points and grabbed 9 rebounds, helping the Celtics secure a crucial win.
In the 2024 playoffs, Brown has been exceptional, averaging 25.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. One of his standout performances came in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers. In that game, Brown hit a clutch three-pointer to send the game into overtime, finishing with 26 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. His consistent high-level play earned him the Eastern Conference Finals MVP award, underscoring his importance to the team’s success.
Brown’s experience and performance in the Finals are crucial for the Celtics as they prepare for another shot at the championship. His ability to score efficiently, defend multiple positions, and perform under pressure makes him a key player in Boston’s quest for the title.
5. Jayson Tatum – 0-1 In Series (2-4 Game-Record)
Jayson Tatum’s NBA Finals experience is rooted in the Boston Celtics’ 2022 series against the Golden State Warriors. During that series, Tatum averaged 21.5 points, 7.0 assists, and 6.8 rebounds per game over six games. His performances included notable games like Game 3, where he scored 26 points and added 6 rebounds and 9 assists, and Game 5, where he posted 27 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists. Despite his efforts, the Celtics ultimately fell to the Warriors in six games.
In the 2024 playoffs, Tatum has continued to be a critical player for the Celtics. He has averaged 26.0 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game in 14 games. His leadership and scoring have been pivotal, especially in high-pressure situations. Notable performances include a 36-point, 12-rebound game in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers, and a 26-point, 13-rebound, and 8-assist game in Game 4, where his contributions helped Boston secure a sweep of the series.
Tatum’s combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive abilities makes him a key figure for Boston as they prepare for another chance at the championship. His experience from the 2022 Finals and his outstanding 2024 playoff run position him as a crucial player in the Celtics’ quest for the title.
6. Derrick White – 0-1 In Series (2-4 Game-Record)
Derrick White played a notable role in the Boston Celtics’ 2022 NBA Finals run against the Golden State Warriors. Throughout the series, White averaged 9.8 points, 2.2 assists, and 1.5 rebounds per game over six games. One of his standout performances came in Game 1, where he scored 21 points, shooting 6-of-11 from the field, including 5-of-8 from three-point range, helping the Celtics secure an early lead in the series.
In the 2024 playoffs, White has been essential for the Celtics. He has averaged 17.8 points, 4.6 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game in 14 games. A notable performance in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers included Game 2, where he scored 23 points, making 4-of-8 three-pointers and contributing significantly to the Celtics’ victory.
White’s ability to perform under pressure and his versatility as a guard make him a crucial asset for Boston as they head into the Finals. His experience from the 2022 Finals and his solid 2024 playoff performances position him as a key contributor in the Celtics’ quest for the championship.
7. Payton Pritchard – 0-1 In Series (2-4 Game-Record)
Payton Pritchard’s NBA Finals experience comes from the Boston Celtics’ 2022 series against the Golden State Warriors. In that series, Pritchard averaged 2.7 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game over six games. His contributions were primarily focused on providing energy and solid defense off the bench, although he had moments where his shooting helped the team.
In the 2024 playoffs, Pritchard has been a more significant contributor for the Celtics. He has averaged 7.5 points, 2.3 assists, and 2.1 rebounds per game in 14 games. A standout performance in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers included Game 3, where he scored 12 points, hitting key three-pointers that helped maintain Boston’s lead.
Pritchard’s ability to provide scoring and playmaking off the bench makes him a valuable asset for the Celtics as they prepare for the Finals. His experience from the 2022 Finals and his increased role in the 2024 playoffs position him as a crucial player in Boston’s pursuit of the championship.
8. Markieff Morris – 1-0 In Series (4-2 Game-Record)
Markieff Morris was a significant contributor during the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2020 NBA Finals victory over the Miami Heat. In that series, Morris averaged 7.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game over six games. His most notable performance came in Game 3, where he scored 19 points and grabbed 6 rebounds, hitting five three-pointers to help the Lakers secure a crucial win.
In the 2024 playoffs, Morris has not yet appeared in any games for the Dallas Mavericks. Despite his lack of playing time, his experience and leadership are valuable assets for the team as they aim for the championship.
9. Sam Hauser – 0-1 In Series (2-3 Game-Record)
Sam Hauser made his NBA Finals debut in 2022 with the Boston Celtics during his rookie season. In that series, he averaged 0.6 points and 0.4 assists in 5 games, finishing with a 2-4 record for the Celtics against the Warriors. Despite his limited role, the experience was valuable.
In the 2024 playoffs, Hauser has stepped up, averaging 4.4 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game in 14 games. One notable performance came in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers, where he scored 10 points, hitting crucial three-pointers that helped secure the win. Hauser’s shooting and floor-spacing abilities make him a valuable asset as the Celtics prepare for the Finals, providing depth and scoring off the bench.
10. Derrick Jones Jr. – 0-1 In Series (0-4 Game-Record)
Derrick Jones Jr. played in the 2020 NBA Finals with the Miami Heat, where he averaged 0.5 points and 0.3 rebounds in 4 games. His role was limited, but his athleticism and defensive capabilities were key components of the Heat’s rotation.
In the 2024 playoffs, Jones Jr. has been a significant contributor for the Dallas Mavericks, averaging 9.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 17 games. His ability to defend multiple positions and provide energy off the bench has been vital for the Mavericks, adding depth to their playoff rotation.
11. Luke Kornet – 0-1 In Series (0-3 Game-Record)
Luke Kornet played in the 2022 NBA Finals with the Boston Celtics, appearing in three games. In that series, he averaged 1.7 points, 0.7 rebounds, and 0.3 assists per game. Although his role was limited, his presence provided valuable bench depth.
In the 2024 playoffs, Kornet has been more active, averaging 3.9 rebounds, 3.7 points, and 0.5 assists in 10 games. His contributions off the bench have helped bolster the Celtics’ frontcourt as they prepare for another championship run.
