So, when people talk about recent history, one must dive into the incredibly thrilling matchups that the NBA Play-In Tournament has graced us with. Now let’s kick things off with the 2020-2021 season. The play-in game between the Golden State Warriors and the Los Angeles Lakers felt like an NBA Finals game. The hype, the narratives, and the sheer talent on the floor hit different. When LeBron James hit that clutch 34-foot three-pointer over Stephen Curry to take the lead, every NBA fan lost their minds. LeBron had aggravated an eye injury mid-game and described the vision on that shot like seeing “three rims.” Insane, right? This game delivered top-tier basketball and some iconic moments in just 48 minutes of regulation. It’s these high-stakes games that make the Play-In Tournament one of the most exciting additions to the NBA calendar.
Another barnburner from the 2021-2022 season was the Minnesota Timberwolves taking on the Los Angeles Clippers. This wasn’t just a game; it was an experience. A massive part of the excitement was the comeback the Timberwolves orchestrated. Down by 10 points in the last quarter, they pulled off a thrilling comeback that left fans on the edge of their seats. The Wolves’ Anthony Edwards and D'Angelo Russell combined for a solid 59 points. Patrick Beverley was all heart and hustle, and he celebrated the win as if he had just clinched an NBA title; that energy was infectious. You could almost measure the electricity in the Target Center that night. This match showed fans the pure, unfiltered emotion and drama that can unfold in a must-win scenario.
Remember when the Memphis Grizzlies faced off against the San Antonio Spurs in the 2021 Play-In? That game was a masterclass of grit and grind. The Grizzlies took an early 19-point lead but the Spurs clawed their way back into the game with veteran grit. Ultimately, it was Ja Morant’s 35 points that led the Grizzlies to victory. That match encapsulated the dual nature of the play-in format: a chance for rising stars to shine and for seasoned players to remind everyone why they’re still in the league. And who could forget Dillon Brooks’ relentless defense? The Play-In is like one final, wild obstacle course to earn a playoff spot, and this match embodied that to its core.
In 2021, we also saw the Boston Celtics square off against the Washington Wizards. Jayson Tatum went absolutely nuclear, dropping 50 points, including five three-pointers, and he became that night’s sensation. That was Tatum’s night; it’s hard to put a price tag on a performance like that. The Celtics were short-handed, missing Jaylen Brown due to injury. But Tatum put the team on his back and essentially said, “We’re going to the playoffs.” The Wizards put up a fight, especially Bradley Beal, who scored 22 points, but Tatum’s performance was the stuff of legend. Moments like these showcase just how pivotal and unforgettable the play-in games can be.
Let’s not overlook the 2022 clash between the New Orleans Pelicans and the San Antonio Spurs. The Pelicans, led by Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum, who combined for 56 points, managed to stave off a Spurs team that refused to quit. Ingram’s versatility and CJ’s clutch plays were standout moments. This game became a foundation for the Pelicans, showing they had the potential to be more competitive in the Western Conference moving forward. The game underscored the immense value the Play-In Tournament brings to teams on the bubble, giving them a crucial platform to test their mettle and build for future seasons.
Another example is the 2021 clash between the Indiana Pacers and the Charlotte Hornets. This wasn’t just a game; it was a blowout. The Pacers dismantled the Hornets 144-117. Malcolm Brogdon, with 16 points, and Domantas Sabonis, who nearly achieved a triple-double with 14 points, 21 rebounds, and 9 assists, were nothing short of fantastic. The game raised serious questions about the Hornets’ defense and readiness for high-stakes games, but it undeniably showcased the excitement and unpredictability that the play-in format can produce.
And let’s not forget about the 2022 showdown between the Atlanta Hawks and the Cleveland Cavaliers. A new entrant to this format, the Hawks proved their mettle yet again, led by none other than Trae Young, who put up 32 points. His performance was like a symphony; every dribble and shot was its own verse. The Hawks’ ability to stay composed and close out games is a testament to their resilience. Young’s crafty dribbling and clutch shooting pretty much single-handedly booked them a playoff spot. It was another example of the type of star-making performance the play-in stage is perfect for.
For a real nail-biter, look no further than the 2021 matchup between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Golden State Warriors. The game went into overtime, with both teams trading buckets. Ja Morant, not even 22 years old at the time, dropped a stunning 35 points on the Warriors. It was like a passing of the torch moment—Ja showing he could be the next big thing while going toe-to-toe with Curry, who had 39 points. It’s not just about the statistics but the sheer willpower and resolve these play-in games evoke.
If you’re the type who loves defensive slugfests, who can forget the 2022 game between the LA Clippers and the Minnesota Timberwolves? The Clippers, even without Kawhi Leonard, put up a formidable fight, with Paul George scoring 34 points. But the Timberwolves' tenacity won the day. Karl-Anthony Towns might have struggled, but Anthony Edwards and D'Angelo Russell picked up the slack, combining for 59 points. This game showed just how unpredictable and exhilarating the Play-In Tournament could be. It reminded everyone that when it’s win-or-go-home, anything can happen.
In 2021, look at what happened when the Hornets faced the Pacers. The game was shocking—not because it was competitive, but because the Pacers blew out the Hornets by 27 points. It was a statement game for the Pacers, who were dealing with a myriad of injuries throughout the season. Everyone contributed, but it was Oshae Brissett who stood out with 23 points. For the Hornets, it was a bitter pill to swallow, but such is the nature of the Play-In; it’s a make-or-break scenario that offers no second chances.
The highly anticipated game of the 2022 series would undoubtedly be the Brooklyn Nets versus the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Nets had had a turbulent season, but Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving were both firing on all cylinders. Durant racked up 25 points and 11 assists, while Irving scored a jaw-dropping 34 points. The Cavs put up a valiant effort, with Darius Garland scoring 34 points, but it wasn’t enough. This matchup highlighted just how high the stakes are in these play-in games and how even the superstars have no room for error.
Have you ever seen a higher stakes face-off than the 2022 contest between the Timberwolves and Pelicans? Anthony Edwards, who’s practically still a kid, took over the game with his 30-point performance. No one expected such a mature, dominant showing from someone his age. And then there was Brandon Ingram of the Pelicans, a superstar who tallied 27 points and nearly dragged his team to victory. In the end, the Timberwolves came out on top, but it was a nail-biter to the finish. These games keep you guessing until the last second, embodying the unpredictability that makes sports so captivating.
So, if you’re looking to catch some intense action, unpredictable outcomes, and career-defining performances, the NBA Play-In Tournament has it all. The games might be relatively new to the NBA’s landscape, but they’ve already given us a treasure trove of unforgettable moments. Next time someone questions the value of the play-in format, just point them to any of these electrifying matchups, and they'll see why fans are hooked. And for a comprehensive look at the evolving stars in the league, you might also want to check out nba player lana rhoades.
