2024 NBA playoffs -- 20 players with most to gain or lose this postseason - ESPN

The playoffs are about legacy. They can be about money, earned and lost. They can be about jobs, lost and saved.

The postseason is the most important time of the year, and it tips off in less than a month.

Here is a look at the players who have the most to gain or perhaps lose this postseason.

Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics

What's on the line: Tatum is headed toward breaking teammate Jaylen Brown's current $288 million record contract and becoming the NBA's first $300 million player when he signs his supermax from the Celtics this summer. He has earned that status and the money, but living with that contract attached to his name will be different depending on how these playoffs unfold for Tatum. In the past two seasons, Tatum went out with a whimper, albeit battling minor injuries.

Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets

What's on the line: Jokic has nothing to prove but he has more to win and is on the verge of joining the all-time greats. He is the favorite to win his third MVP. If he's able to back up last season's dominant playoff showing with another, it's downright historic. Players with three MVPs and two Finals MVPs: Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (the Finals MVP didn't start until 1969, but Bill Russell certainly would be another name on this list otherwise). Jokic can join that unimpeachable group this season.

Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans

What's on the line: Williamson has never played in a playoff game. In the biggest game of his career to this point, the NBA in-season tournament semifinals in December, he and his team were a total flop versus the Los Angeles Lakers. He's been praised for his improved conditioning, ability to stay healthy and impact as a scorer and