In the NBA, accumulating assists in the playoffs showcases a player’s court vision and ability to elevate their team when it matters most.
These 10 players have consistently delivered under postseason pressure, earning their spots among the all-time playoff assist leaders.
1. Magic Johnson – 2,346 Assists
Magic Johnson is the all-time playoff assists leader with 2,346. His legendary court vision and creativity helped fuel the Los Angeles Lakers’ “Showtime” era in the 1980s, leading to five NBA championships. Johnson’s ability to control the game’s tempo and find open teammates in critical moments made him one of the greatest facilitators in NBA history.
2. LeBron James – 2,067 Assists
LeBron James, known primarily for his scoring, has also proven to be one of the most effective playmakers. His 2,067 playoff assists reflect his versatility and basketball IQ, as he has consistently set up teammates during his numerous deep postseason runs. A four-time NBA champion, LeBron’s ability to dominate in multiple areas of the game sets him apart.
3. John Stockton – 1,839 Assists
John Stockton, the NBA’s all-time regular-season assists leader, ranks third in playoff assists with 1,839. Stockton spent his entire career with the Utah Jazz, guiding them to back-to-back NBA Finals in 1997 and 1998. Known for his mastery of the pick-and-roll, Stockton’s precise passing was crucial in creating easy scoring opportunities for his teammates.
4. Jason Kidd – 1,263 Assists
Jason Kidd’s career included stops with the New Jersey Nets, Phoenix Suns, New York Knicks and Dallas Mavericks, where he helped the Mavs win the 2011 NBA Championship. His 1,263 playoff assists rank fourth all-time. Known for his exceptional leadership and transition play, Kidd’s ability to distribute the ball made him one of the best point guards of his era.
5. Chris Paul – 1,233 Assists
Chris Paul, or “CP3,” has consistently been among the league’s top point guards, accumulating 1,233 playoff assists. Despite just one trip to the NBA Finals, Paul’s ability to orchestrate offenses, control the pace, and make timely passes has made him one of the most respected facilitators in the game.
6. Tony Parker – 1,143 Assists
Tony Parker, the longtime point guard for the San Antonio Spurs, ranks sixth with 1,143 playoff assists. Parker’s speed and craftiness, combined with his ability to navigate defenses and penetrate the lane, were key to the Spurs’ four championships during his tenure. His postseason performance solidified his legacy as one of the best point guards of his generation.
7. Rajon Rondo – 1,136 Assists
Rajon Rondo has built a reputation as a playoff performer, amassing 1,136 assists. Rondo was a key figure in the Boston Celtics’ 2008 championship run and later won another title with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020. Known for his high basketball IQ, Rondo’s playmaking and leadership made him a valuable asset in postseason play.
8. James Harden – 1,125 Assists
James Harden has established himself as a premier scorer, but his 1,125 playoff assists prove his effectiveness as a playmaker as well. Whether during his time with the Houston Rockets or more recent stints with the Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers and LA Clippers, Harden’s ability to break down defenses and set up teammates has made him a constant threat in the postseason.
9. Larry Bird – 1,062 Assists
Larry Bird is often celebrated for his scoring and shooting, but his 1,062 playoff assists show his prowess as a facilitator as well. Bird’s court vision and decision-making helped the Boston Celtics win three NBA championships in the 1980s, making him one of the most complete players in basketball history.
10. Steve Nash – 1,061 Assists
Steve Nash, a two-time MVP, rounds out the top 10 with 1,061 playoff assists. Known for his exceptional passing and leadership, Nash led some of the most efficient offenses in NBA history with the Phoenix Suns. While Nash never won a championship, his ability to distribute the ball and run an offense earned him a place among the all-time great point guards.
