In the NBA, winning a championship stands as the ultimate dream for every player.

However, the journey towards that dream usually begins with a playoff appearance. Regrettably, some active players have yet to experience the thrill of playoff basketball.

Four such players have missed the playoffs despite having attended many regular seasons.

1.Lauri Markkanen: 348 games

Lauri Markkanen is an exceptional interior player who has been performing admirably for the Utah Jazz. Averaging an impressive 25.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game with respectable shooting percentages, Markkanen's performance shines.

Despite his talent, he has never set foot in the playoffs. His previous teams, the Chicago Bulls, and the Cleveland Cavaliers, faced struggles, partly due to injuries. Now with the Jazz, Markkanen holds hope that the team's abundance of draft picks may pave the way for his playoff debut.

2. Collin Sexton: 266 games

Collin Sexton, once a beacon of hope for the Cleveland Cavaliers, exhibited excellent scoring ability and shooting percentages in his sophomore season. He contributed 20.8 points, 3.1 rebounds, and three assists per game with a remarkable 47.2 percent shooting from the field and 38 percent from three.

Unfortunately, injuries disrupted his trajectory, and he was subsequently traded to the Utah Jazz. Despite his notable performance, averaging 14.3 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists this season, the Jazz still fell short of making the playoffs. At just 24 years old, Sexton retains ample time to amend his playoff record.

3. Dennis Smith: 270 games

Dennis Smith Jr. has faced his share of challenges but maintains a spot in the NBA. His initial promise with the Dallas Mavericks dimmed due to inconsistency in his shooting and injury setbacks. His rookie season showcased his potential, with averages of 15.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game.

However, changes in team dynamics and health issues hindered his progress. Smith has performed decently, but his future remains uncertain.

4. Christian Wood: 289 games

Christian Wood's NBA journey is nothing short of inspirational. Once cut by the CBA's Fujian team, he toiled relentlessly and eventually reemerged in the NBA.

Over eight seasons, Wood has averaged 14.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game, posting remarkable numbers while with the Houston Rockets. Astonishingly, despite his consistent excellence, Wood has endured a playoff drought spanning 289 games.

His teams have found themselves in transitional phases, and despite his remarkable individual season, but still failed to secure a playoff berth.