The Conference Finals are the last stop before the NBA Finals. Which players have made the biggest impact for their teams this series?
Advancing to the Finals has consumed the minds remaining in the playoff picture. The Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks, Boston Celtics, and Miami Heat are the last four teams competing for the Larry O’Brien trophy. As the Eastern and Western Conference Finals come to an end, here are a few players that will serve as X-factors for their teams.
Most impactful players in NBA Conference Finals: Bam Adebayo, Miami Heat
It’s fair to say that the Eastern Conference Finals have been the most exciting series to watch thus far. Erik Spoelstra and Ime Udoka are involved in a chess match on the hardwood. After three straight games with more than two hundred points scored, the need for defense has never been greater. While Boston searches for their defensive anchor to protect the basket, Miami will rely more on their post threat.
Bam Adebayo has played an important role in this series. While on the floor, his presence creates scoring opportunities for other teammates. When his team needs him to score a basket, Bam comes through in the clutch.
His 14.9 points per game this postseason is ranked second on the team, and Miami’s fourth-year center has increased his field goal percentage from the regular season by 5.2%.
Controlling the glass has been a key component in Miami’s plan to advance to the Finals. Without Adebayo, it is nearly impossible. The Kentucky product’s 6’9 frame allows him to snag offensive and defense boards at a high clip. His 7.7 rebounds per game are the highest on the team. When Miami can rely on their big man to have a dominant night, they have a different swag.