Putting the ball in the basket is certainly the primary objective in the game of basketball, but scoring isn’t the only thing that one can do to impact a game. One of the more impressive statistical accomplishments that highlights when a player is having an effect on multiple levels is the triple double.

A triple double is when a player records double-digit figures in three statistical categories. The triple double is usually achieved by reaching at least 10 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists in a single game – on much rarer occasions it can include steals or blocks.

Triple doubles are not only quite rare in the regular season, but even more so in the annals of NBA playoff history when competition is at its highest. Let’s highlight the players with the most triple-doubles in NBA playoff history.

The most triple-doubles in NBA Playoffs

1. Magic Johnson (30 Triple-Doubles)

A legendary point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, holds the record for the most triple-doubles in NBA playoff history with 30 playoff triple doubles to his name. His career spanned from 1980 to 1996, and he led the Lakers to five NBA championships during that time. Magic wasn’t going to score 50 points on you, but Johnson’s inprint in the post season often was seen with his passing, rebounding and scoring when the Lakers needed it the most.

Known for his exceptional court vision and playmaking ability, Johnson’s playoff performances were often marked by his ability to impact the game in multiple statistical categories.

2. LeBron James (28)

Widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, has amassed an impressive number of triple-doubles in the NBA playoffs. His playoff career has been characterized by remarkable consistency and versatility. With multiple championships and numerous deep playoff runs with the Cleveland Cavs, Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers, James has proven to be a dominant force in the postseason, showcasing his scoring, rebounding, and playmaking abilities. He’s not only the all-time leading scorer in NBA post season history, but King James is second all-time in playoff assists and fourth in total rebounds in the playoffs all-time. Nuts.

3. Nikola Jokic  (18)

Jokic is quickly moving up this list after recording several monster triple doubles in the 2023 NBA playoffs. He came into the season as one of the favorites to win the NBA Most Valuable Player award according to top sportsbooks such as DraftKings, though he ultimately lost it to Joel Embiid, his performances in the post season has shown that the 7-0 Serbian center should have won his third consecutive MVP. In the 2023 playoffs, Jokic tied Wilt Chamberlain with the most triple doubles in one playoff season with seven — and he’ll likely surpass this.

Nikola Jokic has seven triple-doubles in these playoffs, tying Wilt Chamberlain for the most ever in a single postseason, per @StatsWilliams. https://t.co/NdZrviAwYs

— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) May 19, 2023

4. Russell Westbrook (12)

The undisputed king of the triple doubles during the regular season, Russell Westbrook is fourth on the list of the most triple doubles in the the NBA playoffs. Known for his explosive athleticism and relentless energy, has recorded a substantial number of triple-doubles in playoff games. His aggressive style of play has often resulted in impressive stat lines, with high point, rebound, and assist totals. Westbrook’s playoff career has included deep playoff runs and individual accolades, showcasing his impact on the court

5. Jason Kidd (11)

The former point guard for New Jersey Nets, Dallas Mavericks and Phoenix Suns, JKidd core contribution to the game was his exceptional court vision and basketball IQ throughout his career. KIdd’s playoff success was marked by his ability to contribute in multiple areas, recording numerous triple-doubles — only having trouble getting the points portion of the accomplishment. Kidd’s leadership and basketball acumen played a vital role in guiding his teams to deep playoff runs and an NBA championship with the Mavericks in 2011.

6. Larry Bird (tied with 10)

Tied with Draymond Green and Rajon Rondo is Larry Bird with 10 triple doubles in their post season careers.

Bird is a basketball icon and considered the greatest Boston Celtic. The 6-9 forward left an indelible mark on the NBA with his scoring prowess, basketball IQ, and fierce competitiveness. Bird’s playoff career was highlighted by his ability to impact the game in various ways, including recording triple-doubles. His performances in the playoffs often elevated the play of his teammates and contributed to the success of the Celtics during the 1980s. During the regular season, Bird came very close to recording an even rarer quadruple double but decided to sit out the remainder of a game because it was a blowout.

Triple-doubles are remarkable achievements that showcase a player’s ability to excel in multiple statistical categories. Magic leads the way with the most triple-doubles in NBA playoff history, followed closely by LeBron with Jokic quickly shooting up the charts. They’re followed by Westbrook, Kidd, and Bird who all left their mark with their respective franchises.

These players’ ability to contribute in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking has helped their teams succeed in the postseason, solidifying their status as legends of the game.