Superstars are the ones who normally decide a playoff series, but what about the players on the team who can swing the momentum of the series based on their impact?
In the case of the playoffs, it's not just the impact they bring but how they match up against an opponent that alters, changes and counters their game plan across the course of a series.
Here's my take on one X-factor from each NBA team heading into the semi-finals who could prove to be the unsung heroes for their team to advance to the next round.
(2) San Antonio Spurs v (6) Minnesota Timberwolves
San Antonio: Stephon Castle
2026 Playoff Stats- 19.8 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 6.0 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG
One of the reasons the Spurs have taken the leap this season has been through the improvement Castle has taken defensively and offensively, oh and having Victor Wembanyama helps a little.
Though Castle has been a great facilitator for Wembanyama and even stepped up during his absence in Game 3 of the last series with a 33-point game in Portland to lead the series 2-1. With an injured Minnesota backcourt, Castle should take full advantage and boost his 13-point average against the Wolves from the season series.
Minnesota: Jaden McDaniels
2026 Playoff Stats- 17.8 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Where would Minnesota be without the player who publicly called out his opponent's mid-series and backed it up on the biggest stage with his playoff career-high of 32-points? McDaniels is more aggressive than ever in the wake of a depleted Wolves team and has the length to find a shot anywhere on the court, a strength that will be heavily needed against Wembanyama.
McDaniels' defensive ability to defend all positions is still his best value, but he will need to shoot better than his 11.1% playoff three-point average last round if the Wolves have a chance to upset.
