NBA Playoffs 2025: Knicks and Pacers Advance, Celtics and Cavaliers Await in Second Round
May 1, 2025, 10:58 PM ET
The 2025 NBA playoffs are heating up, and if you’re a basketball fan, you’re in for a treat. Our NBA insiders are here to guide you through every thrilling moment as teams battle their way to the Finals. Let’s dive into the latest action from the Eastern Conference, where the New York Knicks, Indiana Pacers, Boston Celtics, and Cleveland Cavaliers are making headlines.
On Thursday, the No. 3-seeded New York Knicks clinched their spot in the second round by defeating the No. 6 Detroit Pistons in Game 6. The game was a nail-biter, with the Knicks securing a 116-113 victory thanks to a 3-point dagger from Jalen Brunson, the Clutch Player of the Year.
Next up for the Knicks are the No. 2 Boston Celtics, who dispatched the No. 7 Orlando Magic in five games during the first round. The Celtics are the defending champions, and the Knicks will have their work cut out for them.
Meanwhile, the No. 4 Indiana Pacers eliminated the No. 5 Milwaukee Bucks in a thrilling overtime victory on Tuesday. The Pacers will now face the No. 1 Cleveland Cavaliers, who swept the No. 8 seed Miami Heat on Monday.
As the Eastern Conference playoffs continue, here’s what you need to know and what to watch for as the second round approaches.
New York Knicks vs. Detroit Pistons: Series Recap
The New York Knicks emerged victorious over the Detroit Pistons, winning the series 4-2. In Game 6, the Knicks managed to hold off a determined Pistons team that fought hard to force a Game 7. Despite squandering several double-digit leads, the Knicks found a way to close out the series.
New York started strong, building a 14-point lead in the first half, only to see the Pistons rally and take the lead at halftime. The Knicks regained an 11-point advantage in the third quarter, but Detroit once again closed the gap and even took a seven-point lead, 112-105, with just 2:35 left in the game.
However, the Pistons could only muster one point in the final minutes, and Jalen Brunson, playing without Karl-Anthony Towns who fouled out, delivered the game-winning 3-pointer to seal the victory.
Indiana Pacers vs. Milwaukee Bucks: Series Recap
The Indiana Pacers continued their dominance over the Milwaukee Bucks, winning the series 4-1. In Game 5, the Pacers overcame a 20-point deficit to win in overtime, thanks to a game-winning layup from Tyrese Haliburton. This marks the second consecutive season that the Pacers have eliminated the Bucks, boasting an 8-3 playoff record against them during this span.
The Bucks put up a valiant effort, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo‘s 30-point, 20-rebound triple-double. Coach Doc Rivers made a bold move by altering the starting lineup, but the season ended in heartbreak with Gary Trent Jr. committing two costly turnovers in the final moments of overtime.
Boston Celtics vs. Orlando Magic: Series Recap
The Boston Celtics wrapped up their series against the Orlando Magic with a 4-1 victory. Despite the gentleman’s sweep, the Celtics faced a tough challenge from the Magic’s aggressive defense. Orlando’s physical play frustrated the Celtics, but the Magic’s offensive struggles ultimately proved to be their downfall.
In Game 5, the Celtics capitalized on Paolo Banchero‘s foul trouble, going on a 24-4 run to close out the third quarter and secure the win. The Celtics now have some time to rest and prepare for their next opponent.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Miami Heat: Series Recap
The Cleveland Cavaliers made quick work of the Miami Heat, sweeping the series 4-0. Game 4 was a blowout, with the Cavs leading 70-25 late in the second quarter. Cleveland’s hot shooting and Miami’s struggles from beyond the arc were evident throughout the series.
With Darius Garland sidelined, the Cavs relied on their big lineups to stifle the Heat’s offense. This strategy could prove valuable as they face tougher competition in the later rounds.
As the second round looms, all eyes will be on the Knicks, Pacers, Celtics, and Cavaliers as they continue their quest for the NBA championship. Stay tuned for more thrilling playoff action!
Originally Written by: NBA insiders
