NBA Playoffs 2012: 10 Most Electrifying Players of the Postseason

There are very few events around this time that carry the excitement and magnitude of the NBA playoffs. This time of year is where some of the best athletes in the world showcase their talents and abilities at the highest level. Players lay everything out on the line to make their team better and pursue an NBA championship.

Every game is a must-see when it comes to the NBA playoffs, and some players deliver must-see performances especially in the postseason.

Here are ten must-see electrifying players that will make this year's playoffs memorable.

1. Andrew Bynum

The Lakers have been waiting for years to see Andrew Bynum live up to his potential as the next great big man for Los Angeles. Right on cue, Bynum has done just that all season.

Bynum doesn't have a Sports Center worthy offensive game that will blow anybody away. However, his numbers and defensive prowess make him one of the most exciting players in the playoffs right now.

The Laker center gave the NBA world a great preview of what's in store after his record-setting ten block performance in game 1 against Denver. It was a definite treat to watch, and Bynum is capable of more games like this as he matures as the centerpiece of the Laker defense.

2. Tony Parker

For a great majority of his career, Tony Parker was known as a slashing and scoring point guard. This season, Parker has evolved his game, turning into a complete floor general for the San Antonio Spurs.

Parker has played at an MVP level as well as a top-five point guard in the NBA this season. He's had some special moments this year, especially when he torched the Oklahoma City Thunder for 42 points. The Spurs are a fundamental half-court offensive team, but Parker brings out the excitement of this veteran team.

3. Kobe Bryant

Unless you've never seen Kobe Bryant play basketball, not much needs to be said about what he brings to the table in the playoffs.

Bryant doesn't just want to win a championship with his team, he wants to be the reason why the Lakers do exactly that. At times his high volume shots can plague the Lakers on offense. However, when Bryant is on, he's essentially unstoppable.

One of the best jump shooters in the game along with a great burst down the paint, Bryant hasn't lost a step yet in his 16-year career. There is still plenty left in the tank, and Bryant is on a mission to prove it.

4. Rajon Rondo

Even after his boneheaded ejection in game 1 against the Atlanta Hawks, Rajon Rondo is still a must-watch player in the postseason. Rondo will be forced to sit out against the Hawks in game 2, but it's only safe to assume he'll come out on a mission after his suspension.

Rondo is a triple-double machine on any given night. Not only is he capable of a triple-double every night, but he produces with a high quantity of all stats. Rondo has recorded six triple-doubles, and has recorded at least 14 assists in 17 games this season.

No other point guard is more exciting and unpredictable in the open floor on a fast break than Rondo. Look for the Celtic point guard to come back with a vengeance after his one-game suspension.

5. Carmelo Anthony

Carmelo Anthony has been ridiculed for being for selfish at times and shooting too many shots. However, Anthony is the most fearless player in the NBA and lives for the big moments.

Anthony is as clutch as they come in the fourth quarter. When the Knicks need a big shot, or a spurt to get the team going, Anthony is the man to call.

'Melo is one of the best scorers in the league, and is a nightmare to defend. If offensive prowess is what keeps you entertained in the NBA, Carmelo Anthony should be high on your wish list for the postseason.

6. Blake Griffin

It would be an insult to the NBA if Blake Griffin was left off of this list.

Griffin is the prime example of a human highlight reel. Arguably the best athlete in all of sports, Griffin proves it as he soars through the air or over defenders with a power slam dunk.

Opponents lately have begun fouling Griffin hard instead of attempting to block his dunks. Griffin's offensive game isn't a polished product, but when he winds up for a ground breaking dunk, the undivided attention of the world is turned in his direction.

7. Chris Paul

Chris Paul is the best point guard in the NBA, and has proven his value to the Clippers by taking them to the playoffs with a 40-26 record. The "Lob City" phenomenon has taken the NBA by storm, and Paul is the catalyst behind the success.

An NBA point guard is supposed to make the players around him better, and nobody does that better than Paul. DeAndre Jordan and Blake Griffin are Paul's favorite targets on a lob in the open floor. Whenever he connects on an alley-oop, it sends the crowd into a frenzy.

Not only is Paul the best point guard in the league, he's also one of the best closers in the fourth quarter. The flow of the game is in the hands of Paul when the ball is in his hands, and it's a sight to see when he's working his magic.

8. Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant is no longer the future of the NBA. He's emerged as one of the best scorers and all around players the league has to offer.

Durant has an unstoppable jump shot with tremendous range, as well as the killer assassin mentality to bury his opponents in the fourth quarter. Durant's jumper was never in question, but he's significantly improved his lane penetration and finishing at the rim.

The Oklahoma City Thunder is loaded with exciting players like Russell Westbrook, James Harden and Serge Ibaka, but Durant is the anchor that carries this team. Playing at an MVP level this year, Durant's high level of production and excitement will continue in the postseason.

9. Josh Smith

The Atlanta Hawks aren't favored to beat the Boston Celtics in the first round despite their game 1 victory, but Josh Smith is a must-watch player in this series.

Smith has went from a highlight reel dunker to a complete offensive weapon for the Hawks. Smith's athleticism and jumping ability makes him one of the most exciting players in the league. After an impressive showing against Boston in game 1, Smith will have to be the life line of Atlanta that keeps them in the postseason.

Smith does have a bit of a short temper and bad attitude, but when his mind is fully invested in basketball, he's a top caliber player in the NBA.

10. LeBron James

Is there a brighter microscope on any player than LeBron James this postseason?

Year after year, the "Chosen One" continues to dazzle as the most physically gifted basketball player this league has ever seen. With a combination of size, speed and strength that has never been seen before, James has all the tools to become the greatest player of all time.

Of course, all the chatter will be about if LeBron will finally win a ring or come up clutch in the fourth quarter. In the meantime of pondering that, the NBA fans will enjoy watching James create magic right before their eyes. Whether or not the Heat win the championship, all eyes will be on LeBron, and he'll have plenty of memorable plays this postseason that will leave the world speechless.