2016 NBA Playoffs: Stars Facing Most Pressure In Round 1

Apr 20, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates after a stoppage in play against the Detroit Pistons during the second quarter in game two of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 20, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates after a stoppage in play against the Detroit Pistons during the second quarter in game two of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /
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The 2016 NBA Playoffs are off to a wild start. Whether they’re thriving or struggling, the following players are under the most pressure to survive Round 1.


Apr 20, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates after a stoppage in play against the Detroit Pistons during the second quarter in game two of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 20, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates after a stoppage in play against the Detroit Pistons during the second quarter in game two of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

The 2016 NBA Playoffs have been unpredictable. There have been down-to-the-wire finishes, a slew of blowouts, and a polarizing combination of outstanding individual performances and disappointing showings.

No players shoulder more of the praise and blame than the stars of the franchise.

For some stars, the postseason is an opportunity to showcase their unique ability to take over a game in its entirety. Those who have lived up to the hype have won over the general population, but that tone can change with even the slightest of slip-ups.

For others, the playoffs are more of an overwhelming stage than an intriguing opportunity. Individual and team glory have been tough to come by for said stars, which makes the second stage of their respective series all the more important.

The question is, which players are facing the most pressure to close out and survive Round 1 of the 2016 NBA Playoffs?

Next: Escaping Round 1, Part I