By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Fifteen out of the 16 teams ready for action in the 2022 NBA Playoffs carry at least one European player. Most of them heavily rely on assets from the Old Continent seeking to extend their runs as contenders for the NBA championship. A total of 17 European countries are represented.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokic, besides just naming a couple of standouts expected to leave their marks on the postseason, combine as the last three season MVP awards, while the Greek Freak was the 2021 NBA Finals MVP for the defending champions, Milwaukee Bucks.
Eurohoops listed all European players in the Playoffs by country. With five players remaining active following the Regular Season and the Play-Ins, France sits on top.
FRANCE
Rudy Gobert (Utah Jazz), Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot (Atlanta Hawks), Frank Ntilikina (Dallas Mavericks), Yves Pons (Memphis Grizzlies), Killian Tillie (Memphis Grizzlies)
The five-player field is highlighted by Rudy Gobert, considering his important role in the Utah Jazz, the fifth seed of the Western Conference. The three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year will have his hands full straight away dealing with the Dallas Mavericks and Luka Doncic.