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BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MARCH 08: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers heads for the net as Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics defends during the first half at TD Garden on March 08, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Elsa via Getty Images
The Market’s Tipping Point
As the NBA Playoffs are set to tip off on April 19th, the card market is heating up. Legacy-defining moments are about to play out on the court—moments that figure to be just as impactful in the collector world. From generational talents like Luka and Tatum to dark horses like Jalen Williams, here’s your all-in-one guide to who could boom or bust on the cardboard.
If you’re new to collecting or looking to level up, start here with the fundamentals or explore how to evaluate playoff cards upside.
Jayson Tatum: The Legacy Leap
With Boston finishing as the East’s second seed, the pressure is on Tatum to deliver his second ring. MVP-level play, plus back to back Finals runs, could cement his value.
Card Trend to Watch:
2017 Prizm Silver PSA 10
Peak: $1,475 (2021)
March 2025 Price: $690
Playoff Spike Potential: High (could break $1,200+ with a deep run)
Collector’s Call: Tatum cards are priced for hesitation, but a Finals MVP changes everything. Shop Tatum cards on eBay.
Anthony Edwards: Breakout Incoming
Edwards has arrived. He is one of just 4 players with over 100+ dunk scores this season. With the Timberwolves finishing strong and Ant averaging 27-5-5 since March, he’s poised for a playoff explosion.
Card Trend to Watch:
2020 Optic Holo PSA 10
90-Day Dip: -9%
Postseason Ceiling: Potential 50% surge if Minnesota advances
Collector’s Call: Ant’s charisma and game scream hobby darling. Get in before Game 1. Browse Edward's rookie cards on eBay.
Stephen Curry: One More Ring or One Last Ride
The combination of a surging Golden State team and Stephen Curry in a seven-game series is lethal. Could this be one last magical run for the Warriors?
Card Trend to Watch:
2009 Topps Rookie PSA 9
Peak: $10,500
Current: ~$4,200
Upside: Skyrocket potential if the Warriors make the Conference Finals
Collector’s Call: If this is Steph’s last dance, those holding rare Curry rookies may soon be holding gold. Shop Curry grails on eBay.
Luka Dončić: Stats or Storyline
Dare we even whisper… “What if Luka goes to the Finals again this year with a completely different team?” While his stats aren’t what they were last year, if he flips the script this postseason with Los Angeles, it could shake the entire market.
Card Trend to Watch:
2018 Prizm Silver PSA 10
Q1 2025 Decline: -13%
Breakout Potential: Massive if LA makes the Conference Finals
Collector’s Call: Luka is a long-term hold either way, but a deep playoff run would trigger an immediate surge. Track Luka prices on eBay.
Stephon Castle: No Playoffs, All Eyes
No playoff berth. No problem. As a rookie, Castle has led the Spurs since Wembanyama injury, and has become a widely regarded favorite to win ROY at -1600 odds at BetMGM.
Card Trend to Watch:
2024 Panini Prizm Fast Break Red Rookie RAW
30 day price change: +41.1% ($209 → $355)
Awards Watch: Castle has plenty of underpriced rookie cards that could see a huge boom if he secures ROY.
Collector’s Call: This could be a long term investment. Stephon Castle and Victor Wembanyama are set to be the next dynamic duo for San Antonio. If they can replicate even a fraction of the early 2000s Spurs’ success, these rookies could boost each other’s value with one playoff run after another. Explore Castles rookies on eBay.
Dark Horse Dimes: Breakout Sleepers
Every playoffs has a guy who shocks the world. Three names to watch:
Jalen Williams (OKC)
2022 Prizm Silver PSA 10: $45 → Jalen is rolling into the Playoffs with a 1 seed average 20+ ppg on the season. Don’t be surprised if we see a big jump in Jalen’s prices in the coming weeks.
Jaime Jaquez Jr. (MIA)
2023 Hoops Auto RC: $18 → We’ve learned to never count out the Heat in the playoffs. Sans Jimmy Butler, look for a Jaime playoff spike if Miami can sneak in.
Alperen Şengün (HOU)
2021 Select Silver PSA 10: $60 → Houston is the 2 seed no one saw coming, Şengün has been electric when healthy and could see a big boost if they go for a postseason run.
Final Word: Cards Aren’t Just Stats—They’re Stories
The NBA playoffs are a proving ground for greatness, both on the hardwood and in the hobby. Whether you’re flipping hot names or stacking for legacy, this postseason will be the market’s next flashpoint.
Be bold. Be early. And remember: in the collector world, timing is everything.
Are you watching someone in particular this postseason not mentioned? Share it on Mantel today.
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