10 Active NBA Players With Most Playoff Games Without Winning A Championship

The NBA playoffs are where legends are made and heartbreaks are a common occurrence. For some players, the journey through the postseason has been long and arduous, filled with incredible performances and unforgettable moments, yet the ultimate prize—a championship ring—remains out of reach. In this article, we spotlight the active NBA players who have played the most playoff games without winning a title, highlighting their perseverance, talent, and the elusive quest for championship glory.

1. James Harden - 166 Games

Playoff Stats: 22.7 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 6.4 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG

When was James Harden the nearest to win the title?

James Harden, known for his incredible scoring and unique style, got closest to winning a championship during the 2018 Western Conference Finals. The Houston Rockets, with Harden and Chris Paul leading the way, faced the powerful Golden State Warriors. This Warriors team had superstars like Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. The Rockets managed to take a 3-2 lead in the series, needing just one more win to reach the NBA Finals. It was a huge achievement given how dominant the Warriors were at that time.

Harden played a big role throughout the series, putting up high scores and hitting his signature step-back three-pointers. But things took a turn for the worse when Chris Paul injured his hamstring at the end of Game 5 and couldn’t play in the last two games. Without Paul, the Rockets struggled to keep their momentum. In Game 6, Harden scored 32 points, but the Warriors won to tie the series. Game 7 was even tougher. Despite Harden’s efforts, including another 32 points, the Rockets couldn’t make their shots, missing 27 three-pointers in a row, and the Warriors won again.

The Game 7 loss was particularly painful because the Rockets had a good lead in the first half but couldn’t hold on. The Warriors’ defense and shooting turned the game around in the second half. Harden’s dream of reaching the NBA Finals slipped away that night. Even though he has had many playoff runs and earned a lot of individual awards, the championship ring has always been just out of reach for Harden. This series in 2018 is a reminder of how close he came but how far it still seems.

2. Chris Paul - 149 Games

Playoff Stats : 20.0 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 8.3 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

When was Chris Paul the nearest to win the title?

Chris Paul, known as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history, had his best shot at a championship with the Phoenix Suns in 2021. The Suns had an impressive playoff run and made it to the NBA Finals to face the Milwaukee Bucks. The series started off strong for Paul and the Suns, as they quickly took a 2-0 lead. Paul's leadership and clutch performances were instrumental in getting the Suns to this point, and it seemed like his long wait for a championship might finally be over.

However, things took a turn after those first two games. The Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, rallied and won the next four games. Paul continued to play at a high level, but the Suns struggled to counter the adjustments made by the Bucks. In Game 4, Paul had a difficult game, with several uncharacteristic turnovers that proved costly. The close loss in Game 4 shifted the momentum to the Bucks, who never looked back.

Game 6 was the final blow. Paul scored 26 points and did everything he could to keep the Suns in the game, but it wasn’t enough. The Bucks won the game and the series, and Paul's dream of an NBA championship was dashed once again. Despite his stellar career and numerous playoff appearances, the championship ring has remained out of reach for Paul, making the 2021 Finals a painful reminder of how close he came.

3. Russell Westbrook - 122 Games

Playoff Stats: 23.6 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 7.5 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.3 BPG

When was Russell Westbrook the nearest to win the title?

Russell Westbrook, known for his explosive athleticism and triple-double prowess, came closest to winning a championship in 2012 with the Oklahoma City Thunder. That year, the Thunder made an impressive run to the NBA Finals, featuring a young core of Westbrook, Kevin Durant, and James Harden. The team faced the Miami Heat, led by LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh. It was a clash of young stars versus seasoned veterans, and the series promised to be an exciting showdown.

In the Finals, Westbrook showcased his aggressive style of play and relentless drive. Despite his efforts, the Thunder fell short. After winning the first game, the Thunder lost four straight, and the Heat claimed the championship. Westbrook had standout performances, including a memorable 43-point game in Game 4, but the Thunder couldn't overcome the experience and star power of the Heat. This series highlighted both Westbrook’s immense talent and the growing pains of a young team on the biggest stage.

Since that Finals appearance, Westbrook has continued to be a force in the playoffs with various teams, but he has not returned to the Finals. His quest for a championship has seen him produce incredible individual performances, but team success has eluded him. The 2012 Finals remain the closest he has come to achieving his ultimate goal, underscoring the challenges and heartbreaks of chasing an NBA title.

4. Jimmy Butler - 119 Games

Playoff Stats: 21.3 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 4.6 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.6 BPG

When was Jimmy Butler the nearest to win the title?

Jimmy Butler, known for his tenacity and leadership, had his closest shot at an NBA championship with the Miami Heat in the 2020 NBA Finals. The Heat, a team that defied expectations, made an impressive run through the playoffs in the NBA bubble, ultimately facing the Los Angeles Lakers led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Butler's performance throughout the playoffs was nothing short of heroic, cementing his reputation as a clutch player and a true leader.

In the Finals, Butler delivered some of the most memorable performances of his career. In Game 3, he recorded a 40-point triple-double, becoming only the third player in NBA Finals history to achieve such a feat. His all-around effort helped the Heat secure a crucial win, making it clear that Butler was willing to do whatever it took to bring home the championship. He followed this up with another incredible performance in Game 5, posting a 35-point triple-double and playing 47 out of 48 minutes to force a Game 6.

Despite Butler’s valiant efforts, the Heat ultimately fell to the Lakers in six games. The series was a testament to Butler’s relentless work ethic and determination, even as the Heat dealt with injuries to key players like Bam Adebayo and Goran Dragic. Butler's performances in the Finals are often cited as some of the best in recent memory, highlighting his ability to elevate his game when it matters most.

While Butler has continued to lead the Heat to multiple deep playoff runs, including another Finals appearance in 2023, that elusive championship ring has remained just out of reach. His journey underscores the difficulty of winning it all, even for a player as talented and driven as Butler.

5. Jae Crowder - 115 Games

Playoff Stats: 10.1 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.5 BPG

When was Jae Crowder the nearest to win the title?

Jae Crowder, known for his tough defense and three-point shooting, has been a vital role player on several playoff teams. His closest chance at winning a championship came in 2021 with the Phoenix Suns. The Suns, led by Chris Paul and Devin Booker, made a remarkable run to the NBA Finals, where they faced the Milwaukee Bucks. Crowder's experience and versatility were crucial throughout the Suns' playoff journey.

During the Finals, Crowder continued to be a key contributor, providing solid defense against the Bucks' formidable frontcourt and hitting timely three-pointers. The Suns started the series strong, winning the first two games and looking poised to capture their first championship in franchise history. However, the Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, mounted a comeback, winning four straight games to take the series.

Crowder’s performance in the Finals showcased his value as a seasoned playoff veteran. In Game 4, he recorded a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds, doing his best to keep the Suns in the series. Despite his efforts, the Suns couldn’t maintain their early momentum and fell short in their quest for the title. The experience was bittersweet for Crowder, who had previously reached the NBA Finals with the Miami Heat in 2020, only to lose to the Los Angeles Lakers.

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6. Paul George - 114 Games

Playoff Stats: 21.2 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 4.1 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.5 BPG

When was Paul George the nearest to win the title?

Paul George has been a prominent figure in the NBA playoffs throughout his career. His closest chance at winning a championship came in 2021 with the Los Angeles Clippers. The Clippers had a strong playoff run, ultimately reaching the Western Conference Finals for the first time in franchise history. George was instrumental in their success, especially after Kawhi Leonard went down with an injury in the semifinals against the Utah Jazz.

In the Western Conference Finals, the Clippers faced the Phoenix Suns. George stepped up in a big way, delivering several standout performances. In Game 5, with the Clippers facing elimination, George scored 41 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, and dished out 6 assists, leading his team to a crucial win and keeping their championship hopes alive. Despite his efforts, the Clippers ultimately fell to the Suns in six games. George's performance in that series, however, solidified his reputation as a clutch player capable of carrying his team in critical moments.

George’s playoff journey has been marked by numerous ups and downs. He has faced criticism for some of his performances in earlier playoffs but has also had moments of brilliance that showcase his talent and determination. The 2021 playoffs were a testament to his resilience and ability to lead under pressure, especially when the odds were stacked against him.

7. Marcus Smart - 108 Games

Playoff Stats: 12.8 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 4.9 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.5 BPG

When was Marcus Smart the nearest to win the title?

Marcus Smart, with his tenacious defense and leadership on the court, had his best shot at winning a championship with the Boston Celtics in the 2022 NBA Finals. The Celtics, powered by a strong defensive identity and the star duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, faced off against the Golden State Warriors. Smart, the Defensive Player of the Year that season, played a crucial role throughout the playoffs with his grit and determination.

In the Finals, Smart's defensive prowess was on full display as he often took on the challenge of guarding Stephen Curry. The series was a hard-fought battle, with the Celtics taking a 2-1 lead after three games. Smart’s versatility and ability to make key plays on both ends of the floor were instrumental in Boston’s success. However, the Warriors' experience and sharpshooting eventually turned the tide. Golden State won the next three games, clinching the championship in six games.

Smart’s contributions throughout the series included key steals, timely three-pointers, and his usual hustle plays that don't always show up on the stat sheet. Despite the Celtics’ strong start, they couldn’t sustain their momentum against the well-oiled machine that was the Warriors. Smart’s leadership and defensive acumen were critical in getting the Celtics to the brink of a title, but the ultimate goal remained just out of reach.

8. Mike Conley - 93 Games

Playoff Stats: 15.1 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 6.4 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG

When was Mike Conley the nearest to win the title?

Mike Conley, known for his steady play and leadership at the point guard position, came closest to winning a championship with the Minnesota Timberwolves during the 2024 NBA playoffs. The Timberwolves had an impressive run, reaching the Western Conference Finals where they faced the Dallas Mavericks. Despite Conley’s consistent performances, the Timberwolves were ultimately defeated by the Mavericks in five games.

In Game 2 of the series, Conley had a standout performance, scoring 18 points, grabbing 5 rebounds, and dishing out 5 assists. His efforts helped keep the Timberwolves competitive, but the Mavericks' depth and star power proved too much to overcome. This playoff run was a testament to Conley's ability to contribute significantly in high-stakes games, showcasing his veteran experience and playmaking skills.

The 2024 playoff run highlighted both Conley's importance to the Timberwolves and the thin margins in the NBA playoffs. Despite the disappointment, Conley's leadership and performance under pressure underscored his value as a key player in critical moments. The quest for a championship continues for Conley, who remains a vital part of his team's competitive efforts.

9. Clint Capela - 87 Games

Playoff Stats: 8.5 PPG, 8.4 RPG, 0.9 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.3 BPG

When was Clint Capela the nearest to win the title?

Clint Capela came closest to winning a championship with the Houston Rockets during the 2018 NBA playoffs. The Rockets, led by James Harden and Chris Paul, made it to the Western Conference Finals to face the Golden State Warriors. The series was highly competitive, with the Rockets taking a 3-2 lead after five games, putting them one win away from the NBA Finals.

Capela played a crucial role throughout the series, providing strong defense and rebounding against the Warriors' potent offense. His ability to protect the rim and secure boards was vital in several close games. However, in Game 6, the Rockets struggled offensively without Chris Paul, who was sidelined due to injury. Despite Capela's defensive efforts, the Rockets lost Game 6, and the series was tied.

In Game 7, Capela's defensive prowess was again on display, but the Rockets suffered from an abysmal shooting night, missing 27 consecutive three-point attempts. Capela finished with a solid performance, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Warriors' experience and talent. The Rockets lost the series 4-3, and Capela's dream of reaching the NBA Finals was put on hold.

10. Marcus Morris - 76 Games

Playoff Stats: 11.8 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.3 BPG

When was Marcus Morris the nearest to win the title?

Marcus Morris, known for his versatility and toughness, got closest to winning a championship with the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2021 NBA playoffs. The Clippers made it to the Western Conference Finals for the first time in franchise history, facing the Phoenix Suns. Morris was crucial in this run, contributing significantly on both ends of the floor. In Game 5, he scored 22 points, helping the Clippers avoid elimination. Despite his efforts, the Clippers lost the series in six games, with the Suns proving too strong.

Morris's performance in these playoffs highlighted his value as a seasoned veteran, capable of stepping up in critical moments. His ability to score from various positions and play tough defense was essential for the Clippers, although the championship eluded him once again.

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