There's no denying that this postseason is missing some stars. Guys like Dwyane Wade, Kevin Durant, Chris Bosh and Russell Westbrook have become regular playoff fixtures. But their absences give other players an opportunity to raise their performance level.
Based on the first week of playoff action, new stars are ready to pick up the torch. Here's a look at the most valuable players from the postseason so far -- the 10 biggest difference-makers, strictly from the perspective of who is most helping his team win. (Check back every week as we update this list throughout the playoffs.)
1. John Wall, PG
Washington Wizards
2015 playoff stats:
18.0 PPG | 12.5 APG
Considering the incredible intensity Wall brought to Toronto, where the Wizards took two games from the Raptors, it's fair to wonder whether he takes it personally when he doesn't hear his name mentioned in all the talk about the top point guards, especially because he's been the best player from his class for a long time.
The Raptors surely recognize his talents after seeing what Wall has done to them so far. He is playing with an obvious edge that has clearly carried over to his teammates. He has beaten Toronto with his defense, passing and scoring. In Game 2, he tallied 26 points and 17 assists -- while constantly wearing a "you can't beat us" look on his face -- to put Washington in prime position to pull off a series win.
There's no question Wall is an elite point guard. He also might be the league's top defender at his position, which is no small thing in this era of fantastic scoring point guards, and plays with the will of a big man, seeking to dominate and destroy the heart of his opponents.
