When diving into the NBA playoffs, few metrics highlight a player's impact as much as three-point field goals made. Stephen Curry, who many consider revolutionized the game with his deep shooting, sits atop this leaderboard. Curry's unparalleled shooting ability isn't just about raw volume; it's about efficiency and impact. His 470 career playoff three-pointers and counting stand as a testament to his skill and importance, shattering previous records and expectations. To put it in perspective, Curry’s career playoff 3-pointers tally surpasses that of Ray Allen, who held the previous record at 385.
Ray Allen, a name synonymous with clutch shooting, especially due to his legendary shot in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals, ranks just behind Curry. Allen's 385-made three-pointers over his career showcased his consistency and reliability as a shooter. His tenure with the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat featured numerous memorable playoff moments that contributed to this impressive tally.
LeBron James, a versatile player known primarily for his driving and passing, surprises many with his place on this list. With 432 playoff three-pointers, James has continually added this valuable weapon to his game. What’s fascinating is how his shot percentage has evolved over the years. Initially criticized for his shooting, LeBron now commands respect beyond the arc, his three-point stats reflecting his adaptable, ever-improving gameplay.
The "Splash Brothers" duo wouldn't be complete without Klay Thompson, who is also a permanent fixture in any discussion about playoff three-point shooting. With 405 made three-pointers in playoffs, Thompson’s catch-and-shoot prowess can turn the tide of any game. His unforgettable 11 threes in Game 6 of the 2016 Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder epitomize his shooting brilliance.
James Harden, another prolific scorer and former MVP, stands out with his 383 career playoff three-pointers. Known for his step-back three, Harden has consistently added dimensions to his offensive repertoire, becoming a formidable playoff performer. His journey from Sixth Man of the Year with the Thunder to being the centerpiece of the Houston Rockets' offense is marked by these pivotal three-point contributions during the playoffs.
Manu Ginobili, the Argentinian maestro, brought flair and competitiveness to every playoff run with the San Antonio Spurs. Ginobili’s 324 playoff three-pointers are a reflection of his crucial bench play and clutch performances, particularly during moments when the Spurs needed a spark. His 2005 and 2007 NBA titles were peppered with key three-point moments, enhancing his legacy.
Reggie Miller, another legend in the realm of shooting, who tallied 320 playoff three-pointers, defined Indiana Pacers basketball for over a decade. Not just a shooter, Miller’s theatrics and performances against rivals like the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference epitomized playoff drama and excellence. The "8 points in 9 seconds" moment remains etched in NBA history as a demonstration of his clutch three-point ability.
For younger fans, Kevin Durant’s presence on this list showcases his dual ability to score from anywhere on the court and in any situation. Durant’s 310 playoff threes have come in key moments, often with defenders draped all over him, particularly during his successful runs with the Golden State Warriors. His shooting stroke and size make his three-pointers virtually unguardable, adding to his extensive offensive toolkit.
Although it’s Curry leading the charge, credit must be given to Damian Lillard, who with 221 playoff threes, has proven his worth over and over again in crucial games. “Dame Time” has become synonymous with clutch end-of-game shooting, particularly from three-point range. His unforgettable series-winning shot over Paul George in the 2019 playoffs is a perfect encapsulation of his fearless shooting mentality.
There’s also Paul Pierce, who with 276 playoff threes, provided the Boston Celtics with key baskets throughout his career. Pierce, nicknamed "The Truth," was known for his ability to hit massively important shots in playoff games. His contributions significantly helped the Celtics clinch the 2008 NBA Championship, forever cementing his legacy as one of the great shooters.
Kyle Korver and Jason Terry, both known primarily for their shooting prowess, made invaluable contributions to their teams’ playoff successes. Korver’s 259 and Terry’s 226 playoff three-pointers provided a consistent offensive boost, functioning as reliable options beyond the arc during intense playoff series.
One of the newer names making his mark is Kyrie Irving, whose 247 playoff threes have come in moments of high stakes, showcasing his ability under pressure. His pivotal three-pointer in Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors is one of the most iconic shots in NBA history, reflecting his clutch gene and shooting skill.
These players not only highlight their individual brilliance but also underscore an era where the three-point shot has become invaluable. Changing team strategies and playing styles have placed a premium on three-point shooting, clearly reflected in this hierarchy of elite playoff performers. For anyone keen on diving deeper into this, one can find an extensive arena plus leaderboard showcasing these achievements and more.