NBA Playoffs 2024-25: Western Conference First-Round Drama Unfolds
The 2024-25 NBA playoffs have kicked off with a bang, and if the first games are any indication, we’re in for a thrilling ride. Our NBA insiders are here to break down the action from the Western Conference, where all four playoff series have played their opening games. Let’s dive into the weekend’s results and see what lessons we can glean from these matchups.
Sunday’s action in the Western Conference was headlined by the No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder delivering a historic beatdown to the 8-seed Memphis Grizzlies. The Thunder’s 51-point victory marked the fifth-largest margin of victory in NBA postseason history. Meanwhile, the No. 7 seed Golden State Warriors leaned on their postseason experience to secure a low-scoring win against the No. 2 seed Houston Rockets.
Saturday’s games were equally captivating. The No. 4 seed Denver Nuggets staged a dramatic comeback to win in overtime against the 5-seed LA Clippers, thanks to some late-game heroics by Russell Westbrook. Later that night, the No. 6 seed Minnesota Timberwolves took down the No. 3 seed Los Angeles Lakers, with Anthony Edwards outshining LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
Here’s a closer look at what stood out from each Game 1 and what to expect as the series continue.
(1) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (8) Memphis Grizzlies
Game 1: Thunder 131, Grizzlies 80
What we learned:
The Thunder’s dominance was on full display as they overwhelmed the Grizzlies with their smothering defense. Oklahoma City, fresh off setting the record for the best point differential in a regular season, showed no mercy. Despite MVP front-runner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander having an off night, the Thunder cruised to victory. The Grizzlies, coming off a 36-hour turnaround from the play-in finale, were simply outmatched.
Game 2: Grizzlies at Thunder (Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. ET, TNT)
What to watch: The Grizzlies need to find a way to generate transition offense if they hope to avoid a quick exit. Oklahoma City’s defense is too formidable to allow Memphis to grind out every possession in the half court. The Thunder’s perimeter stoppers and rim protectors will make life difficult for the Grizzlies’ stars.
(7) Golden State Warriors vs. (2) Houston Rockets
Game 1: Warriors 95, Rockets 85
What we learned:
The Warriors proved they can play defense too, holding the Rockets to their lowest point total of the season. Despite a strong start from Houston, led by Alperen Sengun‘s monster dunk on Draymond Green, Golden State’s experience shone through. Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler III led the charge, while the Rockets struggled with their shooting.
Game 2: Warriors at Rockets (Wednesday, 9:30 p.m. ET, TNT)
What to watch: Houston needs to reclaim their identity and dominate in transition to have a chance. The Rockets’ season-long struggles in half-court offense were evident, and they’ll need to rely on Sengun and assert their physicality to wear down the Warriors.
(6) Minnesota Timberwolves vs. (3) Los Angeles Lakers
Game 1: Timberwolves 117, Lakers 95
What we learned:
The Lakers’ postseason motto “Unleash Joy” didn’t quite pan out as planned. Despite a strong start from Luka Doncic, the Timberwolves took control, with Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle leading the charge. Minnesota’s role players outperformed L.A.’s, putting the Wolves in the driver’s seat.
Game 2: Timberwolves at Lakers (Tuesday, 10 p.m. ET, TNT)
What to watch: Lakers coach JJ Redick faces a decision on whether to stick with his starting lineup or make adjustments. The Timberwolves’ strong performance has put pressure on the Lakers to respond.
(4) Denver Nuggets vs. (5) LA Clippers
Game 1: Nuggets 112, Clippers 110 (OT)
What we learned:
The Nuggets showed resilience, overcoming a 15-point deficit to win in overtime. Russell Westbrook was instrumental, and Nikola Jokic led the charge despite facing adversity. The Clippers will rue missed opportunities, especially with James Harden in foul trouble.
Game 2: Clippers at Nuggets (Monday, 10 p.m. ET, TNT)
What to watch: Both teams will need to recover quickly for Game 2. The Clippers must tighten up their ball handling, while the Nuggets will look for more contributions from Michael Porter Jr.
Originally Written by: NBA insiders
