The final months of the NBA season have long been a goldmine for card investors, as players often see explosive price surges while stepping up under pressure. Just last year, Jalen Brunson’s rise as the Knicks’ go-to scorer sent his card values soaring, while Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum saw major spikes during Boston’s deep playoff run. Meanwhile, proven stars like Nikola Jokić consistently see their prices climb as they dominate down the stretch and into the postseason.
With the 2025 playoffs approaching, the question isn’t just which superstars will shine, but which under-the-radar players could be this year’s breakout investments. Let’s take a look at a mix of established All-Stars and surprising underdogs who have the potential to make waves and drive up their card values in the coming months.
Dalton Knecht, SG, Lakers
Dalton Knecht is a player who could see his explode overnight! In his rookie season, he’s averaging 9.5 points and 3 rebounds off the bench, but it only takes one breakout performance for his prices to double in a matter of hours. After his clutch performances in last year’s March Madness, there’s no doubt that Knecht has a knack for stepping up when the lights are the brightest. Rookie cards almost always rise in value when their team is in the playoffs, and right now, are dirt . This could be the perfect low-risk, high-reward investment. Check out this beautiful —if he has even one big game under the postseason spotlight, the hype will be through the roof.
Jalen Williams, SG, Thunder
The 23-year-old guard, with undeniable All-Star potential, is putting up an impressive stat line this season—averaging 21.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.3 assists. As the perfect complement to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams brings a dynamic scoring ability and explosiveness that can generate major hype through highlight-worthy performances. With the Thunder sitting as the No. 1 seed in the West, all eyes will be on them this postseason. While his card prices may currently be overshadowed by SGA’s, Williams is poised to keep building his name—and his market—throughout the playoffs and into the offseason. Whether it’s , , or , Jalen Williams’ rookie market remains affordable, from to .
Jalen Green, SG, Rockets
Another Jalen! In his fourth season, the 23-year-old has elevated the Rockets into serious contention as the No. 2 seed in the West. Averaging 21.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, Jalen Green has a knack for heating up around this time of year. His durability is also a major plus—he hasn’t missed a game since the 2022-23 season, a rare trait for a young star with his level of explosiveness. Green has the ability to take over any game, and his remains highly accessible, ranging from to with strong upside. If the Rockets continue their impressive run under his leadership, expect his .
Luka Dončić, PG, Lakers
This is an obvious name that had to be on the list. Everyone saw the surge in card prices when Luka Dončić was traded to the Lakers, just as we witnessed a spike last season when the Mavs made a Finals run. Now, with Luka in the NBA’s biggest market, his prices could skyrocket if he leads the Lakers into a high playoff seeding. While his are already priced high, Dončić remains one of the safest investments in the hobby. His postseason performances have consistently elevated his legacy, and now, with the spotlight even bigger in Los Angeles, the hype around his could reach new heights. Whether or , his continue to reign supreme. Especially if he brings a championship to Los Angeles.
Cade Cunningham, PG, Pistons
It’s a guard’s league, and that trend continues with this list. Cade Cunningham is having a breakout season, leading a resurgent Pistons team to the No. 6 seed in the East. Averaging 25.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 9.3 assists, he has proven he can both manage a game and take over when needed. Cunningham’s ability to control tempo, make big plays, and shine in clutch moments makes him a strong investment before the playoffs. His remain , but if he leads Detroit on a deep postseason run, expect a major surge in demand. With his combination of size, skill, and leadership, Cunningham has all the tools to become a long-term star in the league—and in the .
Stephon Castle, PG, Spurs
The favorite, Stephon Castle, is primed for a major jump in as the NBA season nears its final stretch. With starting PG De’Aaron Fox sidelined for the remainder of the season alongside Victor Wembanyama, Castle has stepped into the starting lineup and is making the most of his opportunity. Averaging 13.8 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.2 rebounds, he has already proven he can contribute at a high level. His recent surge—22 points per game over his last three outings—suggests he’s just getting started. Expect Castle to keep turning heads and driving up demand for his !
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