The 1980 NBA playoffs were the postseason tournament of the National Basketball Association's 1979–80 season.
Magic Johnson became the first and (as of 2023[update]), only rookie to be named NBA Finals MVP, leading L.A. to a clinching Game 6 victory with 42 points, 15 rebounds and 7 assists.
Philadelphia earned their third Eastern Conference championship, but were unsuccessful in capturing their third NBA title.
They switched conferences (along with the Chicago Bulls) in the 1980–81 season with the addition of the Dallas Mavericks.
The Rockets gained home-court advantage due to a better record within the Central Division (20–10 to the Spurs' 14–16).