X-Factors On Every NBA Team Heading Into NBA Playoffs And Play-In

The playoffs are under one week away and there will be play-in games before the real action starts. Every one of the 20 NBA teams has specific X-Factors that will ultimately make the difference in a playoff series. We have seen key X-Facotirs for championship-winning teams such as Steve Kerr and John Paxson with the Chicago Bulls to Andre Iguodala with the Golden State Warriors. Here are the X-Factors for every NBA playoff team in 2023-24. 

What is an X-Factor?

An X-Factor is a player who can help a team win games without receiving the bulk of the praise, criticism, or attention from the opponent. Historically, X-Factors have proven to be the difference in the playoffs and the Finals.

Eastern Conference

Boston Celtics (62-17, 1st In East)

X-Factors: Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Al Horford

The Boston Celtics have clinched the top spot in the Eastern Conference with an impressive 62-17 record, largely due to the contributions of their Big 3: Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Kristaps Porzingis. While these stars are expected to lead the way in the playoffs, the team’s success will also heavily depend on the performance of their X-Factors: Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, and Al Horford.

Jrue Holiday was acquired as a replacement for Marcus Smart and brings All-Star caliber play and championship experience to the Celtics. His role as a steady playmaker, reliable scorer, and key defensive player will be vital in navigating the challenges of playoff basketball. Derrick White’s inclusion underscores the importance of his defensive skills and ability to complement the team’s offensive firepower.

As a key perimeter defender, White will be tasked with guarding some of the opposing team’s best players. Meanwhile, Al Horford, despite being 37 years old and serving as a backup, will be essential for the Celtics’ playoff aspirations. His experience, leadership, and ability to stay healthy will provide valuable depth and stability to the frontcourt rotation, serving as a reliable backup to Porzingis.

Milwaukee Bucks (49-31, 2nd In East)

X-Factors: Khris Middleton, Bobby Portis, Brook Lopez

The Milwaukee Bucks, led by the superstar duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, have secured the second seed in the Eastern Conference with a 49-31 record and have championship aspirations despite having to learn the methods of new coach, Doc Rivers. The Bucks have struggled defensively this season, ranking 21st in the league, and Middleton, Portis, and Lopez will be tasked with bringing back a defensive identity to the team in the playoffs.

Middleton, despite averaging 15.0 PPG this season, needs to improve his shooting efficiency, particularly from beyond the arc, where he’s shooting 38.2%. As the team’s third option, Middleton will need to elevate his game and shoot close to 40% from three-point range to provide the necessary scoring support to Giannis and Lillard.

On the defensive end, Bobby Portis and Brook Lopez will be essential in dominating the paint, protecting the rim, and anchoring the Bucks’ defense. Their ability to disrupt opposing offenses, secure rebounds, and provide interior defense will be crucial in bolstering the team’s defense after a poor season in that sense.

New York Knicks (47-32, 3rd In East)

X-Factors: OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, Mitchell Robinson

The New York Knicks have secured the third seed in the Eastern Conference with a 47-32 record, with Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson leading the way. While the duo will be key contributors, the Knicks will also rely heavily on OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, and possibly Mitchell Robinson.

OG Anunoby’s defensive prowess and shooting will be crucial for the Knicks’ success in the playoffs. Currently shooting 37.3% from three-point range, Anunoby may need to elevate his shooting efficiency and become a more reliable perimeter threat to provide the necessary spacing and offensive support for Randle and Brunson.

Josh Hart’s rebounding ability, particularly for his size, is impressive, averaging 8.2 rebounds per game. However, Hart needs to improve his shooting, currently at 30.9%, to become a more consistent scoring threat and elevate his offensive game to complement his rebounding prowess.

Mitchell Robinson’s potential return to the lineup could be a significant boost for the Knicks in the playoffs. Limited to just 28 games in the regular season due to injury, Robinson’s shot-blocking, rim-protecting abilities, and interior presence could provide valuable depth and defensive stability to the Knicks’ frontcourt rotation.

Cleveland Cavaliers (47-33, 4th In East)

X-Factors: Evan Mobely, Caris LeVert, Max Strus

The Cleveland Cavaliers have quietly emerged as a force in the Eastern Conference with a 47-33 record, led by Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Jarrett Allen. Despite the uncertainty surrounding Mitchell’s future with the team, the Cavaliers have a strong supporting cast. Evan Mobley, an elite defensive big man, has been a standout defender for the Cavaliers, providing shot-blocking, rim protection, and versatile defense.

Caris LeVert, a scoring guard known for his offensive versatility and playmaking, will be relied upon to provide additional scoring punch and playmaking alongside Garland and Mitchell. LeVert’s ability to create his own shot, attack the basket, and facilitate for his teammates will be essential in diversifying the Cavaliers’ offensive attack and keeping defenses honest.

Max Strus, the Cavaliers’ major free-agent signing, has been a reliable three-point shooter, currently shooting 34.6% from beyond the arc. However, Strus will need to improve his shooting efficiency and become a more consistent perimeter threat to space the floor.

Orlando Magic (46-34, 5th In East)

X-Factors: Wendell Carter Jr, Jalen Suggs, Cole Anthony

The Orlando Magic have been one of the surprise teams in the Eastern Conference this season, clinching the 5th seed with a 46-34 record. Despite their youth, led by top scorers Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, the Magic have thrived and are poised to make noise in the playoffs. Wendell Carter Jr’s presence down low will be crucial for the Magic, providing interior scoring, rebounding, and rim protection.

Jalen Suggs, a promising young guard, will be tasked with providing perimeter scoring, playmaking, and defensive versatility for the Magic. His ability to create off the dribble, knock down shots from the outside, and defend multiple positions will be pivotal in diversifying the Magic’s offensive options and disrupting opposing offenses.

Cole Anthony, the team’s primary playmaker, will be responsible for orchestrating the Magic’s offense, distributing the ball, and generating scoring opportunities for his teammates. If the Magic want to continue with their third-ranked defense, the X-Factors need to continue their play.

Indiana Pacers (46-34, 6th In East)

X-Factors: Myles Turner, Benedict Mathurin, Aaron Nesmith

The Indiana Pacers have quietly secured the 6th seed in the Eastern Conference with a 46-34 record. With the addition of Pascal Siakam to complement Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers have the potential to be a formidable force in the playoffs. While Haliburton will have the opportunity to showcase his superstar potential, the Pacers’ success will also rely on their X-Factors: Myles Turner, Benedict Mathurin, and Aaron Nesmith.

Myles Turner’s shot-blocking ability and rim protection will be crucial for the Pacers, anchoring their defense and deterring opposing offenses from attacking the paint. His presence in the paint, defensive versatility, and ability to alter shots will be essential in maintaining the Pacers’ defensive intensity, while Benedict Mathurin, a scoring threat, will need to provide offensive firepower and contribute consistently on the offensive end.

Aaron Nesmith’s energy, hustle, and contributions off the bench will be crucial for the Pacers, providing a spark, defensive intensity, and valuable minutes on both ends of the floor. His ability to make hustle plays, crash the boards, and provide energy off the bench will be essential in giving the Pacers a boost and maintaining their competitive edge.

Philadelphia 76ers (45-35, 7th In East)

X-Factors: Tobias Harris, Buddy Hield, Kelly Oubre Jr.

The Philadelphia 76ers have clinched the 7th seed in the Eastern Conference with a 45-35 record, led by Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. As Embiid returns to form after playing only 38 games this season, and Maxey emerges as a co-star, the success of the 76ers will also rely on Tobias Harris, Buddy Hield, and Kelly Oubre Jr.

Tobias Harris, often overlooked but crucial for the 76ers, will need to step up as the third offensive option. His scoring ability, versatility, and experience will be essential in providing consistent scoring, creating mismatches, and supporting Embiid and Maxey on the offensive end.

Buddy Hield, acquired before the trade deadline, brings valuable three-point shooting and floor spacing to the 76ers. Currently shooting 38.4% from beyond the arc, Hield’s ability to knock down open shots will create space for Embiid and Maxey to operate. Kelly Oubre Jr., an all-around forward posting 15.5 PPG and 5.0 RPG, will need to maintain his production and contribute consistently in the postseason.

Miami Heat (44-36, 8th In East)

X-Factors: Tyler Herro, Terry Rozier, Jaime Jacquez Jr, Caleb Martin

The Miami Heat, currently holding the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference with a 44-36 record, are looking to make a deep playoff run. As they aim to recapture their Finals form, the Heat will rely on their X-Factors: Tyler Herro, Terry Rozier, Jaime Jacquez Jr, and Caleb Martin.

Tyler Herro, a key player the Heat missed during last season’s Finals against the Nuggets, has been outstanding this season, averaging 21.0 PPG. His scoring ability, shot-making, and clutch performances will be crucial for the Heat, as he needs to maintain his scoring output and drop at least 20 PPG in the playoffs to provide consistent offensive firepower.

Terry Rozier, acquired before the trade deadline, brings energy, hustle, and playmaking to the Heat as a replacement for Kyle Lowry. Jaime Jacquez Jr, a contender for the All-Rookie First Team, could be the player the Heat didn’t have during last year’s Finals run. His versatility, scoring, playmaking, and defensive prowess will be essential in providing depth, making an impact on both ends of the floor, and contributing valuable minutes in the playoffs.

Caleb Martin, known for saving his best performances for the playoffs, will need to step up and elevate his game when it matters most. If these X-Factors perform at their highest levels alongside Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, don’t be surprised to see the Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Chicago Bulls (37-42, 9th In East)

X-Factors: Coby White, Alex Caruso, Andre Drummond

With only DeMar DeRozan and Nikola Vucevic available due to Zach LaVine’s injury, the Bulls will heavily rely on Coby White, Alex Caruso, and Andre Drummond. Coby White, a contender for Most Improved Player (19.0 PPG), has shown significant growth and development this season. His scoring ability, playmaking, and shot creation will be crucial for the Bulls, as he needs to continue his strong play, provide offensive firepower, and help alleviate the scoring burden on DeRozan and Vucevic.

Alex Caruso, known for his elite defense, will be tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best perimeter players, disrupting their offensive flow, and setting the tone defensively for the Bulls. Andre Drummond, a dominant rebounder and rim protector, will need to step up and be at his best to protect the paint, control the boards, and anchor the Bulls’ defense while giving the Bulls a chance to secure crucial stops in the play-in games.

Atlanta Hawks (36-44, 10th In East)

X-Factors: Bogdan Bogdanovic, Jalen Johnson, De’Andre Hunter, Saddiq Bey

Bogdan Bogdanovic, currently shooting 37.2% from three-point range, needs to improve his shooting efficiency to open up the floor for Trae Young and Dejounte Murray. His ability to knock down perimeter shots, create space, and provide consistent scoring will be crucial in stretching the defense and creating scoring opportunities for the Hawks’ primary playmakers.

Jalen Johnson and De’Andre Hunter, averaging 16.0 PPG and 15.8 PPG respectively, need to maintain their scoring averages and continue to contribute offensively for the Hawks. Saddiq Bey, averaging 13.7 PPG, will also need to maintain his scoring output and contribute offensively for the Hawks. The X-Factors must need to continue their play to give the Hawks a chance to win their play-in games.

Western Conference

Denver Nuggets (56-24, 1st In West)

X-Factors: Michael Porter Jr., Aaron Gordon, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

The Denver Nuggets, reigning NBA champions, are led by the dynamic duo of Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. As they aim to defend their title, the Nuggets will rely on their X-Factors as they did last year. Michael Porter Jr., the team’s third option, has been shooting an impressive 40.0% from three-point range. His ability to maintain this shooting efficiency, create spacing, and provide consistent scoring and he deserves his respect.

Aaron Gordon, an elite defender, will need to be at his best, replicating his defensive impact from last year’s championship run. His versatility, defensive versatility, and ability to guard multiple positions will be pivotal in anchoring the Nuggets’ defense, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, the Nuggets’ best perimeter defender, is shooting an impressive 41.1% from deep and needs to continue that.

Minnesota Timberwolves (55-25, 2nd In West)

X-Factors: Naz Reid, Jaden McDaniels, Mike Conley

The Minnesota Timberwolves have been a dominant force this season, second in the Western Conference with a 55-25 record. With a strong defensive presence, led by Rudy Gobert and the dynamic duo of Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns, the Timberwolves will look to their X-Factors: Naz Reid, Jaden McDaniels, and Mike Conley to maintain their defensive prowess and contribute in key areas.

Naz Reid, a contender for the 6th Man of the Year, will need to continue his impactful play off the bench, providing scoring, rebounding, and energy. Jaden McDaniels, an elite defender, will be tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best players, disrupting their offensive flow, and setting the tone defensively. Mike Conley, known for his consistent playmaking and shooting, will need to provide stability, playmaking, and perimeter scoring for the Timberwolves.

Oklahoma City Thunder (55-25, 3rd In West)

X-Factors: Josh Giddey, Jalen Williams, Luguentz Dort

The Oklahoma City Thunder have emerged as a formidable team in the Western Conference with a 55-25 record, led by the dynamic duo of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren. Josh Giddey will need to elevate his game as a scorer and playmaker to complement Gilgeous-Alexander and Holmgren.

Jaylen Williams, averaging an impressive 19.4 PPG, will need to maintain his scoring output and continue to provide offensive firepower for the Thunder. His scoring ability, versatility, and offensive contributions will be pivotal in supporting Gilgeous-Alexander and Holmgren, and he needs to prove his regular season isn’t a fluke. Luguentz Dort, known for his breakout playoff campaign in 2020, will need to perform at a high level and replicate his postseason success this year.

Los Angeles Clippers (51-29, 4th In West)

X-Factors: Russell Westbrook, Norman Powell, Ivica Zubac

The Los Angeles Clippers, boasting a formidable Big Three with Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and James Harden, are poised to make a deep playoff run. Russell Westbrook, a seasoned veteran with playoff experience, needs to be healthy and provide leadership and stability to complement the Clippers’ Big Three.

Norman Powell, averaging 14.0 PPG this season, will need to be a go-to scorer off the bench and provide offensive firepower for the Clippers. His scoring ability, shot-making, and versatility will be pivotal in diversifying the Clippers’ offensive options, creating scoring opportunities, and helping the team compete at a high level against tough playoff defenses.

Ivica Zubac, the starting center for the Clippers, often overlooked but crucial to their success, will need to be dominant in the paint and control the boards against some opponents to allow his scorers to perform at the highest level.

Dallas Mavericks (50-30, 5th In West)

X-Factors: Tim Hardaway Jr, PJ Washington, Daniel Gafford, Dante Exum

The Dallas Mavericks, led by the dynamic duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, are looking to make a splash in the playoffs with a 50-30 record. Tim Hardaway Jr, with his streaky shooting, has posted 14.8 PPG in the regular season. He will need to elevate his game and average 17.8 PPG in the playoffs, as he did in 2020, to diversify the offense.

PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford, acquired before the trade deadline, will need to provide a presence down low, rebounding, shot-blocking, and energy for the Mavericks. Their interior defense, rebounding prowess, and ability to finish around the rim will be pivotal in protecting the paint, securing rebounds, and providing support to Doncic and Irving during the playoffs.

Dante Exum, shooting an impressive 48.6% from three-point range, will need to maintain his shooting efficiency in the playoffs. If he can continue his shot shooting, it will be hard for teams to double-team Doncic and Irving.

New Orleans Pelicans (47-32, 6th In West)

X-Factors: CJ McCollum, Trey Murphy III, Jonas Valanciunas, Herbert Jones

The New Orleans Pelicans, boasting talents such as Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, have secured the 6th seed in the Western Conference and avoided the play-in tournament. CJ McCollum, the third option for the Pelicans, has posted 19.7 PPG this season and will need to maintain this scoring output in the playoff to create a Big Three.

Trey Murphy III, averaging 14.4 PPG, will need to continue his scoring and provide offensive contributions for the Pelicans. Jonas Valanciunas, a big body for the Pelicans, needs to up his numbers beyond 12.4 PPG and 8.9 RPG. His rebounding prowess, interior scoring, and physical presence will be essential in controlling the boards and allowing Williamson to prosper down low. Herbert Jones, an excellent perimeter defender, will be a difference-maker for the Pelicans and could get timely stops for the team if needed.

Phoenix Suns (47-33, 7th In West)

X-Factors: Jusuf Nurkic, Grayson Allen, Josh Okogie

The Phoenix Suns, despite having a Big Three of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, have flown under the radar because there are doubts about their role players. Jusuf Nurkic, a dominant inside presence at times, will need to bring consistency and intensity against every opponent. Grayson Allen has been invaluable for the Suns, posting 13.5 PPG on 45.7% shooting from three-point range and playing elite perimeter defense.

Josh Okogie, an elite defender and hustle-first player, will need to compete every second, make winning plays, and give maximum effort to give the Suns’ Big Three a chance. However, the presence of the X-Factors still might not be enough for the Suns to get over the hump because they are simply too top-heavy when compared to other title contenders.

Sacramento Kings (45-34, 8th In West)

X-Factors: Keegan Murray, Malik Monk, Kevin Huerter, Harrison Barnes

The Sacramento Kings, led by an All-Star duo of De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, failed to advance past the first round last year. To make a deeper run this year, the Kings will need their X-Factors to step up and perform. Keegan Murray, coming of age, needs to elevate his game and post more than his 15.1 PPG to be a reliable third option for the Kings.

Malik Monk, the energizer bunny for the Kings, has been consistently scoring off the bench. His scoring prowess, shot-making ability, and offensive contributions will be pivotal in providing a spark off the bench. Kevin Huerter, having a down year, posting 10.2 PPG and shooting 36.1% from three-point range, needs to elevate his shooting efficiency and provide consistent scoring for the Kings. Harrison Barnes, adding playoff experience to the Kings’ lineup, needs to elevate his level of play and contribute in key areas to be more than a supplementary piece.

Los Angeles Lakers (45-35, 9th In West)

X-Factors: D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura

LeBron James and Anthony Davis will rely on their role players to step up and support their star power. The key X-Factors for the Lakers are D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura, the three best role players on the team. D’Angelo Russell has had an excellent season, posting 18.2 PPG and 6.3 APG. To be a reliable third option for the Lakers, Russell must maintain his level of play and not let his performance decline.

Austin Reaves, expected to play important minutes for the Lakers, needs to elevate his shooting efficiency and provide consistent scoring. Shooting better than his current 36.3% from three-point range will be essential for Reaves because James and Davis will see consistent double-teams. Finally, Rui Hachimura, posting 13.6 PPG this season, will serve as the team’s fifth option in the playoffs and his scoring will help in that sense.

Golden State Warriors (44-35, 10th In West)

X-Factors: Jonathan Kuminga, Andrew Wiggins, Chris Paul, Brandin Podziemski

The Golden State Warriors, led by Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, are gearing up to compete in the play-in tournament with a 44-35 record. Jonathan Kuminga has had a breakout season, posting 16.2 PPG and 4.8 RPG. To make a significant impact in the playoffs, Kuminga needs to mature quickly, continue his development, and contribute consistently on both ends of the floor.

Andrew Wiggins, not performing at the same level as his 2022 playoff run, needs to rediscover his form and elevate his game. The Warriors won’t be ready to have a deep postseason run without Wiggins performing at a high level, unfortunately.

Chris Paul needs to provide stability, playmaking, and scoring off the bench for the Warriors. His veteran presence, playoff experience, and ability to control the pace, make smart decisions, and facilitate for his teammates will be essential in guiding the Warriors’ offense. Brandin Podziemski, expected to contribute off the bench, needs to provide scoring, playmaking, and energy as he is shooting 38.8% from deep. 

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