Cavaliers James Harden Fourth Player in NBA History to Appear in Playoffs His First 17 Seasons
It’s not easy getting to the playoffs. Only the best of the best make it. Furthermore, this fact is not just true for teams, but players as well. And there is one active NBA star who has done it consistently and consecutively over 15 times. The Cleveland Cavaliers James Harden is set to become the fourth player in NBA history to appear in the playoffs in each of his first 17 seasons.
Another wild historical stat from this week with LeBron’s most wins, Jokić’s triple-double season and Luka’s 15K points. Nevertheless, Harden’s achievement is just as impressive. To almost play in the league for two full decades, Harden has NEVER missed the playoffs. The postseason has just become business as usual for The Beard.
Furthermore, Harden is having a great 2026. He is once again playoff bound with a chance and opportunity to win a title with Cleveland. And his greatness in scoring has been cemented in NBA history books. As of early 2026, James Harden is now in the top 10 all-time NBA scoring list, having passed Carmelo Anthony (10th) and Shaquille O’Neal (9th) during the 2025-26 season with the LA Clippers. Only LeBron James and Kevin Durant are active players currently ranked above him.
Cavaliers James Harden Fourth Player in NBA History to Appear in Playoffs His First 17 Seasons
Now Harden will join three other NBA greats in demonstrating not only longevity; but the tenacity to have a long postseason appearance streak. Regarding Harden and the legacy of this feat the National Basketball Association posted the following historical lesson:
“HARDEN’S RARE PLAYOFF STREAK: James Harden helped the Cleveland Cavaliers clinch a spot in the NBA Playoffs presented by Google with last night’s victory over the Golden State Warriors, pushing his playoff streak to 17 straight seasons. Harden is set to become the fourth player in NBA history to appear in the playoffs in each of his first 17 seasons, joining Karl Malone (19), John Stockton (19) and Tony Parker (17).”
As one can see, he’s now tied with Parker, but if he stays perfect two or more seasons; he’ll tie or surpass Malone and Stockton. So then, something interesting to keep in mind as the next couple of years pass. Nonetheless, making the postseason is one thing; winning it all is another. And Harden is due. To see if the Cavs and Harden can get the job done; tune in when the first round of the 2026 NBA playoffs begin on April 18.
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