5 Worst playoff injuries

An injury in the NBA playoffs can drastically alter a team's chances of winning, affecting not only the game but the entire course of the series.

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In 2012 playoffs, MVP Derrick Rose's ACL injury marked a bleak day for the Bulls. It left them unsuccessful in the series and ended their championship hopes.

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LeBron's 1st Cavs season could've ended in championship if Kyrie didn't get injured. They relied on James for offense, but won title next season.

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Houston Rockets were close to beating the Warriors and winning the championship, but Paul's injury led to relying on 3-pointers and losing crucial leads in Games 6 and 7.

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In the chase for a three-peat, Warriors' hopes waned without Durant. His return kindled a flicker of hope, but an Achilles injury led to Raptors' triumph. Durant departed to Nets.

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Mavericks lost their title shot as Dirk Nowitzki injured his knee in Game 3 of Western Conference Finals. Spurs won 3 of 4 and proved unbeatable.

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5 Worst playoff injuries

An injury in the NBA playoffs can drastically alter a team's chances of winning, affecting not only the game but the entire course of the series.

In 2012 playoffs, MVP Derrick Rose's ACL injury marked a bleak day for the Bulls. It left them unsuccessful in the series and ended their championship hopes.

Derrick Rose

LeBron's 1st Cavs season could've ended in championship if Kyrie didn't get injured. They relied on James for offense, but won title next season.

Kyrie Irving

Houston Rockets were close to beating the Warriors and winning the championship, but Paul's injury led to relying on 3-pointers and losing crucial leads in Games 6 and 7.

Chris Paul

In the chase for a three-peat, Warriors' hopes waned without Durant. His return kindled a flicker of hope, but an Achilles injury led to Raptors' triumph. Durant departed to Nets.

Kevin Durant

Mavericks lost their title shot as Dirk Nowitzki injured his knee in Game 3 of Western Conference Finals. Spurs won 3 of 4 and proved unbeatable.

Dirk Nowitzki

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