The Top 5 Impact Performers of the 2012 NBA Playoffs

It has been a wild ride over the past few weeks. We've seen upsets, blowouts, the emergence of one possible dynasty and what very could well be the end of two others.

And we're not done yet. With one more game in the Eastern Conference Finals to go and a whole series left to decide it all, here are the top 5 impact performers so far from the 2012 NBA Playoffs.

5. Tony Parker

Parker mesmerized the basketball world for ten straight games, leading what looked like a Spurs revival and one last shot at glory for an aging dynasty. Unfortunately, he and his squad ran into what very well could be the next NBA dynasty and fell just short of yet another trip to The Finals.

4. Kevin Durant

The evolution is almost complete.  Durant has developed right on schedule from college one-and-done to one of the elite players in the league.  Now he awaits a chance to reach the pinnacle of the sport by way of going through the league MVP or the league's most experienced team.

3. Lebron James

After enduring two days of criticism following a heart-wrenching Game 5 loss in the Eastern Conference Finals, the MVP turned in a performance for the ages to force a deciding Game 7 on his home court.  One more performance like that will land him a date with Durant's Thunder for a shot at his first banner.

2. Rajon Rondo

As much as it pains me to say, the Celtics shouldn't be where they are right now.  They shouldn't be on the brink of another trip to the finals, but they are. Not because of some Big Three or Big Four, but a Big One: Rajon Rondo.  

His Magic-like performance throughout these playoffs has been the catalyst for the run the Celtics are on. He'll need to be at his best Saturday night if Boston is to advance.

1. The NBA Officiating Crews

Oh, don't be so surprised. When was the last time so many players had so many complaints about the officiating in the playoffs? Better yet, when was the last time most complaints about officials were valid?

The NBA officials have stepped into the limelight in the 2012 NBA Playoffs. Some people have even alluded to the fact that these guys might actually be the subject of a Michael Moore film in the near future, carrying out the orders of the NBA front office in an effort to maximize both viewership and controversy.

Some of the calls seem all too much like the guys making them are trying to make a top ten list on a certain sports network.

I don't know about any top ten lists, but congratulations fellas. You made my top 5!