Plot Synopsis

CLUTCH: THE NBA PLAYOFFS is an eight-part documentary series that delves into the high-stakes action of the 2024 NBA Playoffs -- both on and off the court -- chronicling the personal and professional journeys of players like Zion Williamson, Tyrese Maxey, Jalen Brunson, Tyrese Haliburton, P.J. Washington, and Jaylen Brown as they navigate the challenges of postseason basketball. With exclusive access, CLUTCH captures defining moments that shape not just games, but legacies showcasing the NBA's next generation of leaders. Episodes include:

"Changing of the Guard" (Debuts on ESPN2 on Monday, October 7, 2024 at 11:30pm ET/8:30pm PT; Streaming on ESPN+ on Tuesday, October 8 at 12:30am ET): As NBA legends LeBron James and Steph Curry reach the twilight of their storied careers, the league is witnessing a seismic shift. The Pelicans' Zion Williamson and the Kings' De'Aaron Fox are vying to step into the spotlight. In high-stakes play-in games, Zion challenges LeBron, while Fox takes on the Warriors dynasty as he looks to create his own legacy in nearby Sacramento. Can these two players meet the standard set by their heroes?

"Foundation First": (Debuts on ESPN on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at 8pm ET/5pm PT; Streaming on ESPN+ immediately following linear debut): In the NBA, team chemistry correlates to success and championship aspirations. The New York Knicks' core, featuring NBA All-Star Jalen Brunson alongside his former Villanova teammates Josh Hart and Donte DiVincenzo, aim for the Knicks' first title in over fifty years. Meanwhile, OKC Thunder's young core captured the top seed in the Western Conference, led by All-NBA guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Can these close-knit teams advance past the first round and shake up the playoff landscape?

"Killer Instinct" (Debuts on ESPN on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at 9pm ET/6pm PT; Streaming on ESPN+ immediately following linear debut): Indiana and Milwaukee square off in a heated First Round matchup. Making his playoff debut, All-Star Tyrese Haliburton is out to prove he has what it takes to lead the Pacers. Standing in his way is the Buck's Patrick Beverley. Back in his hometown of Chicago, Beverley details what made him a relentless player. Meanwhile, the Celtics finished with the best regular season record in the league, but questions linger about their championship pedigree.

"Hunter vs Hunted" (Debuts on ESPN on Friday, October 11, 2024 at 8pm ET/5pm PT; Streaming on ESPN+ immediately following linear debut): The defending champion Nuggets hope to repeat, but teams such as the Timberwolves are built to beat them. In the Western Conference Semifinals these combatants battle in an epic 7-game series. The pressure is intense for the Nuggets' Jamal Murray and the Cavs' Donovan Mitchell to sustain their reputations as elite playoff performers. Expectations are high in Boston where unproven second-year coach Joe Mazzulla is determined to show he's worthy of leading this storied franchise.

"Make Your Name" (Debuts on ESPN on Friday, October 11, 2024 at 9pm ET/6pm PT; Streaming on ESPN+ immediately following linear debut): NBA history has shown that you can't win a title with superstars alone. As the conference semifinals continue, key contributors such as the Knicks' Josh Hart, the Pacers' T.J. McConnell and Mavericks' PJ Washington are determined to help their teams advance. Whether it is grabbing a big rebound, running the fastbreak or "standing on business," these role players are looking to rise to the occasion and bring their respective franchises closer to Championship glory.

"Redemption" (Debuts on ESPN on Sunday, October 13, 2024 at 5pm ET/2pm PT; Streaming on ESPN+ immediately following linear debut): For Kyrie Irving, the 2024 playoff stage is an opportunity to reaffirm his superstar status and rewrite the narrative. Meanwhile the core members of the Celtics are driven by the chance to overcome past disappointments and live up to the history of "Titletown." Confronting the harsh reality of stepping into the playoff spotlight for the first time, the Pacers' Tyrese Haliburton is out to prove that he is one of the future faces of the league.

"Beyond The Game" (Debuts on ESPN on Sunday, October 20, 2024 at 1pm ET/10am PT; Streaming on ESPN+ immediately following linear debut): With just four teams remaining in the NBA Playoffs, several players and coaches ponder their status as difference-makers at the highest level of basketball. Celtics' All-Star Jaylen Brown strives to leave a lasting legacy in Boston, while Mavericks' rookie Dereck Lively reflects on his teammates' support after his mother's passing. Lively's coach Jason Kidd channels his time-honored connection with Dallas, while his counterpart in Boston, Joe Mazzulla, reckons with his first brush with NBA greatness.

"Finally" (Debuts on ESPN on Sunday, October 20, 2024 at 2pm ET/11am PT; Streaming on ESPN+ immediately following linear debut): After 6 grueling weeks of playoff basketball, The NBA Finals are here. Celtics duo Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown zero in on an 18th championship banner for their city, supported by the veteran leadership of Al Horford, who might only have one last chance to win a title. Meanwhile, in his inaugural Finals appearance, transcendent talent Luka Doncic fights to keep pace with Boston's explosive offense.