The NBA regular season has drawn to a close, signaling the start of the playoffs for the league’s top stars. While every postseason team vies for the Larry O’Brien Trophy, certain players face heightened pressure. Some seek to attain championship glory for the first time, while others are aware that time is running out on their championship aspirations.

Which players are under the most scrutiny in the 2024 NBA playoffs? Kazeem “Kaz” Famuyide identifies three Eastern Conference contenders.

Damian Lillard, Milwaukee Bucks: The Milwaukee Bucks have experienced ups and downs since acquiring Damian Lillard in a blockbuster trade last summer. Despite coaching changes and inconsistent stretches, they clinched the No. 3 seed in the East, thanks in part to Lillard and MVP candidate Giannis Antetokounmpo. Lillard has a history of delivering clutch performances in the playoffs, but he has yet to advance past the second round. With Antetokounmpo potentially sidelined for the start of the first-round series against the Indiana Pacers, Lillard shoulders even more responsibility.

“If you’re Damian Lillard, you’re thinking, ‘This is why they brought me here,'” Famuyide said. “If Lillard’s exceptional talent can elevate the Bucks franchise, including its MVP player in Giannis Antetokounmpo, then he’s a player with the most to prove.”

Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics: Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics have held the East’s No. 1 seed for weeks. However, their recent playoff history includes a loss in the NBA Finals and a seven-game defeat in the Eastern Conference finals. They are heavily favored to emerge from the East this year and would have home-court advantage in the championship round if they advance that far. Tatum has amassed individual accolades throughout his career but has yet to capture a championship, a milestone that would place him among Celtics legends.

“Year in and year out, Jayson Tatum is knocking on the door,” Famuyide said. “But you don’t become a face of the league, you don’t lead the next Celtics dynasty, and you definitely do not knоϲk Ԁown the door of a championship without doing it first. Jayson Tatum, don’t make them question why you’re going to be the most highly paid player in the NBA this summer. Show them your ring.”

Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers: The Philadelphia 76ers have demonstrated their potential with Joel Embiid on the court. Despite slipping in the standings during Embiid’s absence due to a knee ιnjᴜry, they secured a spot in the Play-In Tournament. Now, with Embiid back in action, they have a chance to make a deep playoff run.

“The Philadelphia 76ers might be playing with a little bit of house money,” Famuyide said. “Now, Joel Embiid probably has one of the best chances to take his team past the first round of the NBA playoffs. If Joel Embiid is even close to as healthy as he was before he went down, you put him and that Sixers team against any team in the Eastern Conference, and I’m taking that team with Joel Embiid on it.”