As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare to face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, LeBron James is set to achieve yet another milestone in his storied career. With this matchup, James will have faced 80% of all NBA teams in the postseason.
LeBron James’ playoff journey began in 2006 with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and since then, he has become a fixture in the postseason. Over the years, James has faced and conquered some of the league’s most iconic franchises, leaving an indelible mark on the NBA’s playoff history. From his legendary battles with the Boston Celtics to his Finals showdowns against the Golden State Warriors, James has consistently risen to the occasion on the biggest stage.
With the Timberwolves now added to the list, James will have faced 24 of the NBA’s 30 teams in the playoffs. Among his most frequent opponents are the Boston Celtics, whom he has faced 41 times in the postseason, holding a 25-16 record. Other notable matchups include his battles with the Indiana Pacers (30 games, 20-10 record) and the Golden State Warriors (28 games, 11-17 record), the latter of which includes four NBA Finals series.
Despite his extensive playoff resume, there are still six teams James has yet to face in the postseason: the Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Sacramento Kings, Utah Jazz, and New Orleans Pelicans. Of these, the Cavaliers and Lakers are the least likely opponents, given James’ history with Cleveland and his current tenure with the Lakers.
LeBron’s ability to compete against such a wide array of teams over the years speaks to his remarkable durability and adaptability. At 40 years old, James continues to defy expectations, leading the Lakers to a 50-win season and the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference. His leadership, basketball IQ, and physical conditioning have allowed him to remain a dominant force, even as the league evolves around him.
The upcoming series against the Timberwolves is not just another playoff matchup for James—it is a continuation of his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history. As he prepares to face Anthony Edwards and a red-hot Minnesota team, James will once again have the opportunity to showcase his brilliance on the postseason stage.
