James Harden’s NBA career has been defined by consistent excellence, offensive brilliance, and a rare level of durability—not just in terms of health, but in postseason presence. As the 2025 NBA Playoffs tip off, Harden extends one of the most underrated streaks in modern basketball history: 16 consecutive playoff appearances. That’s right—through five teams and countless roster changes, Harden has never missed the postseason.
Let’s break it down.
Harden’s playoff journey began in Oklahoma City, where he spent the first three years of his career. Alongside Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, Harden was a crucial part of a young and dynamic Thunder squad that made three straight postseason runs, culminating in an NBA Finals appearance in 2012. Though OKC fell short against the Miami Heat, Harden’s role as the Sixth Man of the Year helped elevate him into stardom.
In 2012, Harden was traded to the Houston Rockets, where he transformed into a perennial All-Star and the face of the franchise. Over the next eight seasons, Harden not only led Houston to the playoffs every single year but also became one of the most prolific offensive forces in league history. Despite the Rockets often running into powerhouse teams like the Golden State Warriors, Harden kept them in contention year after year. His time in Houston featured deep playoff runs, including two trips to the Western Conference Finals, and several MVP-caliber seasons—winning the award in 2018.
In early 2021, Harden joined the Brooklyn Nets in a blockbuster trade. Though his stint in Brooklyn was brief and injury-marred, he still managed to make the postseason, contributing to a team loaded with star talent. The trio of Harden, Kevin Durant, and Kyrie Irving showed flashes of dominance, but injuries ultimately derailed their championship hopes.
The following season, Harden was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers. Teaming up with Joel Embiid, he made the playoffs in back-to-back seasons, continuing his streak. Though the Sixers were considered contenders, they failed to advance past the second round in both attempts, adding to the narrative that has followed Harden for years: postseason brilliance in flashes, but still no ring.
In 2023, Harden landed with the Los Angeles Clippers, forming yet another star-studded roster alongside Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and Russell Westbrook. Despite skepticism about how the fit would work, the Clippers surged during the 2024-25 season, with Harden playing a key role as a facilitator and clutch scorer. The team’s strong finish has them entering the playoffs with momentum—and perhaps their best chance yet at a title.
Now in his 16th consecutive playoff appearance, Harden boasts a career postseason record of 87-79. It’s a testament to his talent, adaptability, and enduring value across different systems and teams. Yet, the championship still eludes him. For all his regular season accolades—scoring titles, All-Star nods, and an MVP—Harden remains in pursuit of the one achievement that could cement his legacy among the all-time greats: an NBA championship.
As the 2025 playoffs begin, all eyes are once again on Harden. The Clippers are red-hot, and if there’s ever been a year for him to finally silence the critics, it’s now. Sixteen years in, the stage is set.