10 NBA Stars Who Never Played Against LeBron James In The Playoffs

Regular Season Record vs. LeBron James: 6-16

Basketball fans around the globe were eager for a playoff face-off between Kobe Bryant and LeBron James, two of the NBA's finest, but it never happened. Kobe, the legendary Laker, collected an impressive array of honors during his 20 years in the sport, including 18 All-Star appearances, five NBA championships, two NBA Finals MVP titles, and the 2008 league MVP. He posted career averages of 25 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game, highlighting his scoring ability and knack for coming through in the clutch.

The closest we got to seeing this dream matchup was in 2009, when both the Lakers and the Cavaliers topped their conferences. The Lakers breezed through the Western Conference playoffs under Kobe's leadership, waiting for their rivals in the NBA Finals. At the same time, LeBron James was having a stellar season with the Cleveland Cavaliers, setting up what seemed like an inevitable showdown.

Yet, this much-awaited clash got derailed in the Eastern Conference Finals, with the Cavaliers falling to the Orlando Magic in six games. The Magic, with their unique style and timely heroics, knocked out the Cavaliers, dashing hopes for a Kobe-LeBron final. The Lakers ended up facing the Magic instead, with Kobe leading his team to victory and snagging his fourth NBA championship ring.

The absence of a playoff series between Kobe Bryant and LeBron James remains a tantalizing "what-if" in NBA lore. Such a showdown would have not only showcased their exceptional talents but also amped up their competitive legacies. Instead, we're left to wonder about what might have been in a historic clash of basketball giants.

2. Allen Iverson

Regular Season Record vs. LeBron James: 10-8

Known as "The Answer," Allen Iverson remains one of the most thrilling and unique talents the NBA has ever witnessed. Throughout his distinguished career, Iverson was a scoring machine and a fierce competitor, famous for his signature crossover and bold drives to the basket. He was an 11-time All-Star and clinched the NBA MVP award in 2001, the same year he carried the Philadelphia 76ers to the NBA Finals. Iverson's career stats are impressive, with averages of 26.7 points, 6.2 assists, and 2.2 steals per game, reflecting his impact on both ends of the court.

Despite his success, Iverson and LeBron James never crossed paths in the postseason. LeBron entered the NBA in 2003, just as Iverson's peak years were beginning to decline, though he remained a formidable player. Their careers overlapped for several years, but the timing never lined up for a playoff showdown. Iverson's 76ers often faced obstacles in the Eastern Conference, usually bowing out before they could challenge LeBron’s rising Cavaliers.

They nearly met in the mid-2000s playoffs, but Iverson’s teams either missed the cut or exited early. Meanwhile, LeBron's Cavaliers were becoming a staple in deeper playoff stages. The mismatch in team success and playoff longevity meant fans missed out on what could have been a captivating battle of styles and eras, with Iverson's gritty, underdog spirit pitted against LeBron’s emerging dominance.

The lack of a playoff series between Allen Iverson and LeBron James left fans yearning for a matchup that would have pitted Iverson's scoring brilliance against LeBron's all-around prowess, creating a legendary playoff tale. Sadly, this chapter of NBA history remains unwritten, leaving fans to speculate about the intense showdowns that might have been.

3. Steve Nash

Regular Season Record vs. LeBron James: 8-10

Steve Nash, widely regarded as one of the top point guards in NBA history, transformed the playmaker role with his outstanding court vision and precision shooting. A two-time NBA MVP (2005, 2006) and an eight-time All-Star, Nash was instrumental in powering one of the most explosive offenses in league history with the Phoenix Suns. Over his career, he averaged 14.3 points and 8.5 assists per game, and his shooting splits of 49/43/90 placed him in the elite 50-40-90 club several times.

Despite his regular-season achievements, Nash's playoff journeys never intersected with LeBron James. The Suns, a powerhouse in the Western Conference in the mid-2000s, consistently fell short of the NBA Finals, often stumbling against tough conference rivals. Meanwhile, LeBron was quickly becoming a force in the Eastern Conference with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Suns and Cavaliers peaked at different times; Nash's Suns came close to the Finals several times but couldn't overcome the Western Conference hurdles. In 2007, the same year LeBron took the Cavaliers to their first NBA Finals, Nash's Suns reached the Western Conference Finals only to be ousted by the Spurs in a memorable and tight series.

The lack of a playoff clash between Steve Nash and LeBron James is a poignant miss for basketball aficionados. A matchup of

Nash’s finesse and mastery against LeBron’s power and versatility would have offered a fascinating contrast in styles. The potential duels would have presented a narrative of an experienced virtuoso against a rising superstar, a clash of basketball philosophies and generations that sadly never came to be.

4. Giannis Antetokounmpo

Regular Season Record vs. LeBron James: 6-17

Giannis Antetokounmpo has quickly become a top figure in NBA stardom, redefining what it means to be a versatile player. He's bagged multiple MVP awards (2019, 2020) and a Defensive Player of the Year title, proving his dominance on both ends of the court. Giannis has turned the Milwaukee Bucks into consistent contenders, highlighted by their 2021 NBA Championship win. His stats impress across the board, with career averages of 23.4 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game, along with 1.2 blocks and 1.1 steals.

Though contemporaries, Giannis and LeBron have never faced off in the postseason, partly due to the different trajectories of their teams and the NBA playoff structure. While LeBron's teams were a fixture in the NBA Finals for nearly a decade in the Eastern Conference, Giannis's rise coincided with LeBron's 2018 move to the Los Angeles Lakers in the West.

The thought of a playoff series between these two powerhouses excites fans with the prospect of a showdown between an all-time great and the face of the new generation. Both known for their ability to dominate at both ends, a playoff battle between them would have been a display of top-tier athleticism, skill, and basketball IQ.

Unfortunately, this potential matchup remains an unrealized dream in the playoff arena, leaving fans to muse over what could have been in such high-stakes games. The dynamic of a seasoned veteran like LeBron, with his strategic play and leadership, against the raw power and youthful energy of Giannis would have indeed been a thrilling addition to NBA playoff history.

5. Kyrie Irving

Regular Season Record vs. LeBron James: 4-12

Kyrie Irving first made waves in the NBA as a teammate of LeBron James with the Cleveland Cavaliers, culminating in their 2016 NBA Championship win, marked by Irving's clutch three-pointer in Game 7. An accomplished player, Irving has consistently posted averages of 23.6 points and 5.7 assists per game, proving his mettle as a dynamic scoring point guard.

Despite their significant past as teammates, Irving and LeBron have never clashed in the playoffs as opponents. After leaving Cleveland in 2017, Irving joined teams like the Boston Celtics and Brooklyn Nets, and most recently, the Dallas Mavericks—keeping him mainly in the Eastern Conference while LeBron has been with the Los Angeles Lakers in the West. Their paths almost crossed in 2018 during the Eastern Conference Finals, but Irving sat out due to a knee injury, missing the entire series.

Now, with Irving leading the Mavericks and LeBron still with the Lakers, the potential for a playoff encounter lingers, dependent on both teams advancing. Such a matchup would be rich in narrative, featuring elements of mentorship, rivalry, and personal redemption.

6. Dwyane Wade

Regular Season Record vs. LeBron James: 15-16

Dwyane Wade, one of the NBA's celebrated shooting guards, is best known for his time with the Miami Heat, where he secured three NBA championships and nabbed the Finals MVP in 2006. Wade's mix of scoring, playmaking, and defensive skills defined his illustrious career, during which he made 13 All-Star appearances and averaged 22 points, 5.4 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game.

Wade's most significant playoff moments came when he teamed up with LeBron James in Miami from 2010 to 2014. Together, they reached four consecutive NBA Finals, winning two and forming one of the most formidable dynasties in modern NBA history.

Before LeBron's Miami days, Wade's Heat and LeBron's Cavaliers were both contenders in the Eastern Conference, but never at the same time. When Wade's Heat were at their peak, LeBron's Cavaliers were either rebuilding or locked in battles with other teams. Once both were at their competitive best, they joined forces, creating a powerhouse that redefined teamwork and star partnerships in the league.

The lack of a playoff face-off between Dwyane Wade and LeBron James as opponents is a missed chapter in what could have been a riveting rivalry. Instead, their legacies are intertwined as allies, shaping an era that redefined teamwork and star power in the NBA.

7. Chris Bosh

Regular Season Record vs. LeBron James: 6-19

Chris Bosh moved from being the franchise player for the Toronto Raptors to forming a powerful alliance with LeBron James and Dwyane Wade on the Miami Heat in 2010. This trio led Miami to four straight NBA Finals appearances, winning two championships and cementing their place in basketball history.

As an 11-time NBA All-Star and versatile power forward, Bosh averaged 19.2 points and 8.5 rebounds per game over his career. His ability to stretch the

floor with his shooting made him a precursor to the modern big man and a key to the Heat's success during their dominant years.

With LeBron as a teammate, any potential playoff clash between Bosh and James was off the table during their peak years together. Before joining the Heat, Bosh's Raptors didn't go deep enough in the playoffs to face LeBron's Cavaliers. Their careers as teammates, rather than adversaries, shaped a significant era in NBA history, redefining team basketball and leaving a lasting impact on the league.

The absence of a playoff showdown between Chris Bosh and LeBron James as opponents leaves us wondering about what might have been. Their respective abilities to influence the game could have made for an intriguing matchup, with Bosh’s versatility testing LeBron's all-around dominance. However, their alliance instead created a dynamic that reshaped team basketball and left an indelible mark on the NBA landscape.

8. Luka Doncic

Regular Season Record vs. LeBron James: 6-8

Since his 2018 NBA debut, Luka Doncic has quickly become one of the league's shining stars. Known for his scoring prowess, adept passing, and clutch performances, Doncic has redefined expectations for young players leading a franchise. As the cornerstone of the Dallas Mavericks and a multiple-time All-Star, he averages impressive stats of 28.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game, showcasing his leadership and versatility on the court.

Though they're in the same conference, Doncic and LeBron have yet to square off in the playoffs. Their regular-season matchups have been close and exciting, offering a glimpse of what could be an epic playoff series. Both players are known for their high basketball IQ and ability to step up when it counts, making the prospect of a postseason battle even more appealing.

The absence of a playoff encounter between Luka Doncic and LeBron James is a missed opportunity for fans eager to witness a clash between the old guard and the new wave of NBA talent. Doncic represents the future of the league, while LeBron continues to defy age, maintaining his elite status. A playoff series between these two would not only be a passing of the torch moment but also a masterclass in basketball skill and strategy.

9. DeMarcus Cousins

Regular Season Record vs. LeBron James: 3-12

Once one of the most dominant centers in the league, DeMarcus Cousins has shown he can take over games with his robust presence in the paint and versatile skill set. With career averages of 20.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, Cousins has made multiple All-Star appearances, demonstrating his ability to impact games on both offense and defense. Despite his individual achievements, Cousins’ teams often struggled in the playoffs, and injuries have significantly impacted his career trajectory.

Cousins has been in the league with LeBron since 2010, but their paths have never crossed in the playoffs. His most notable years were with the Sacramento Kings and New Orleans Pelicans—teams that often missed the postseason or bowed out early. Even when Cousins joined contenders like the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Clippers, either injuries kept him from key games, or the timing just didn't line up for a matchup against LeBron's teams.

The lack of a playoff duel between DeMarcus Cousins and LeBron James leaves a gap in what could have been a fascinating matchup of strength and skill. At his peak, Cousins posed a unique challenge with his combination of size, skill, and aggression, which would have tested the defensive capabilities of any team led by LeBron.

10. Marc Gasol

Regular Season Record vs. LeBron James: 9-12

Renowned for his high basketball IQ and defensive acumen, Marc Gasol has made a significant impact in the NBA, notably with the Memphis Grizzlies and later the Toronto Raptors. A three-time All-Star and the 2013 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Gasol played a key role in leading the Raptors to their first NBA Championship in 2019. Over his career, Gasol has averaged 14.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, demonstrating his scoring ability and facilitation skills from the center position.

Despite being contemporaries, Gasol and LeBron have never faced off in the NBA playoffs. While LeBron's teams often made deep runs in the Eastern Conference, Gasol's Grizzlies were a fixture in the competitive Western Conference. They were close to meeting in the postseason during the years when both were deep playoff contenders in their respective conferences, but timing and playoff dynamics never aligned to bring these two together on the playoff stage.

The absence of a playoff encounter between Marc Gasol and LeBron James represents a missed spectacle for NBA fans. Gasol's strategic approach and defensive mastery going head-to-head against LeBron's all-around dominance would have offered a captivating study in contrasting styles and basketball philosophies.

Honorable Mentions

LaMarcus Aldridge

Regular Season Record vs. LeBron James: 13-15

LaMarcus Aldridge, known for his precision and effectiveness from mid-range, carved out a distinguished career as one of the most reliable power forwards in the NBA. A seven-time All-Star, Aldridge showcased his prowess with the Portland Trail Blazers and later with the San Antonio Spurs. He averaged 19.4 points and 8.2 rebounds per game, utilizing his signature fadeaway jumper and post moves to dominate opponents.

Although Aldridge's Blazers and Spurs were consistent playoff contenders in the Western Conference, they never matched up with LeBron's teams in the postseason. His tenure in Portland was marked by early playoff exits, preventing any deeper runs that could have set the stage for a showdown with LeBron. Later, with the Spurs, Aldridge reached the Western Conference Finals in 2017, but by then, LeBron's Cleveland Cavaliers were powerhouses in the East, dashing any hopes of a Finals clash.

The potential matchup between Aldridge and LeBron would have highlighted Aldridge's methodical scoring ability in the post against LeBron's dynamic and versatile play. It remains a captivating 'what-if' scenario, leaving fans to ponder how Aldridge's traditional approach would have measured up against LeBron's all-around game.

John Wall

Regular Season Record vs. LeBron James: 7-16

John Wall burst onto the NBA scene with speed and flair, quickly establishing himself as one of the league's premier point guards. During his tenure with the Washington Wizards, Wall made five All-Star appearances, renowned for his explosive athleticism, exceptional speed, and sharp playmaking. He averaged 19.1 points and 9.1 assists per game, spearheading the Wizards' offense and frequently lighting up highlight reels.

Despite his individual success and the Wizards being playoff regulars in the Eastern Conference, Wall and LeBron never collided in the postseason. The Wizards' inability to advance deep into the playoffs during LeBron's dominant years with Miami and Cleveland kept this potential electrifying matchup just out of reach. Wall's peak years unfortunately aligned with LeBron's teams either reaching the Finals or acting as gatekeepers in the East.

A playoff duel between John Wall and LeBron James would have been a spectacle of Wall's speed and agility versus LeBron's power and tactical intelligence. This matchup would have offered fans a thrilling display of contrasting styles, challenging LeBron's defensive prowess with Wall's quickness and court vision.

Blake Griffin

Regular Season Record vs. LeBron James: 7-8

After 14 NBA seasons, Blake Griffin officially retired from the game. He redefined the power forward position with his blend of athleticism, strength, and, later in his career, an improved perimeter game. Initially drafted by the Los Angeles Clippers, Griffin, along with Chris Paul and DeAndre Jordan, formed the core of "Lob City," captivating fans with their acrobatic dunks and fast-paced play. A six-time All-Star, Griffin averaged 21.0 points and 8.9 rebounds per game, making significant impacts during his stints with the Clippers, Detroit Pistons, and later the Brooklyn Nets.

Despite his dominance in the Western Conference and his teams' several playoff appearances, Griffin never faced LeBron in a postseason series. Griffin's playoff journeys with the Clippers often ended before a potential NBA Finals matchup with LeBron's teams in the East could materialize. Moreover, when Griffin moved to the Pistons and later to the Nets, his evolving role and injuries impacted his play, diminishing his chances of facing LeBron.

A playoff showdown between Blake Griffin and LeBron James would have been a clash of titans, with Griffin's high-flying athleticism up against LeBron's strategic mastery and physical prowess. Fans surely missed out on a matchup that would have combined strength, agility, and high basketball IQ, enriching the tapestry of NBA playoff history with what could have been a memorable encounter.