NBA Playoffs 2025: A Thrilling Start to the Conference Semifinals
May 8, 2025, 12:22 AM ET
The 2025 NBA playoffs have reached the second round, and the excitement is palpable as teams battle it out in the Eastern and Western conference semifinals. Our NBA insiders are here to provide you with all the insights and updates you need for every game. Let’s dive into the action-packed matchups that have already set the stage for an unforgettable postseason.
The Eastern Conference semifinals kicked off with a bang as the No. 4 seed Indiana Pacers stunned the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers with a 121-112 victory on Sunday night, seizing home-court advantage. The Pacers continued their impressive run by defeating the Cavaliers again on Tuesday, this time in a nail-biting 120-119 win, thanks to Tyrese Haliburton‘s clutch 3-pointer with just one second left on the clock.
Meanwhile, in the Western Conference, the No. 7 seed Golden State Warriors managed to overcome adversity and defeat the No. 6-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves 99-88 on Tuesday, despite losing their star player Stephen Curry to an injury.
In another thrilling Eastern Conference matchup, the third-seeded New York Knicks pulled off a stunning overtime victory against the 2-seed Boston Celtics in Game 1, led by Jalen Brunson‘s 29 points. The Knicks continued to shock the Celtics with a 91-90 comeback win on Wednesday, taking a commanding 2-0 series lead.
Over in the Western Conference, the 4-seed Denver Nuggets managed to topple the No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 after a strong fourth-quarter surge. However, the Thunder bounced back in Game 2 with a resounding 43-point victory to even the series.
As the chase for the Larry O’Brien Trophy continues, here’s what you need to know about each series and what to watch for in the upcoming games.
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Western Conference
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets
The series between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Denver Nuggets is tied at 1-1. In Game 2, the Thunder delivered a dominant performance, defeating the Nuggets 149-106. The Thunder’s young roster showed resilience after a tough Game 1 loss, and MVP contender Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 34 points on 11-of-13 shooting, along with eight assists.
Looking ahead to Game 3, the Nuggets will need to find a way to counter the Thunder’s adjustments. The officiating in Game 2 was a point of contention, particularly regarding three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, who fouled out in the third quarter. The Thunder’s decision to switch Jaylin Williams onto Jokic proved effective, and it will be interesting to see how Denver responds in the next game.
Golden State Warriors vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
The Golden State Warriors lead the series against the Minnesota Timberwolves 1-0 after a 99-88 victory in Game 1. Despite losing Stephen Curry to a left hamstring injury, the Warriors showcased their depth and resilience. Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler III stepped up with impressive performances, combining for 38 points, 19 rebounds, and 14 assists.
The Timberwolves missed a golden opportunity to capitalize on Curry’s absence, struggling with their shooting. Minnesota’s 3-point shooting woes continued, as they went 0-for-15 from beyond the arc in the first half, tying a record for the most missed 3s without a make in a playoff half in the past 25 seasons. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Curry’s injury status and whether the Timberwolves can find their shooting touch.
Eastern Conference
New York Knicks vs. Boston Celtics
The New York Knicks have taken a surprising 2-0 lead over the Boston Celtics after a thrilling 91-90 victory in Game 2. The Celtics built a 20-point lead in the third quarter, but the Knicks mounted a comeback, capitalizing on Boston’s offensive struggles. Jalen Brunson and the Knicks held on to secure the win, leaving the defending champions in a precarious position as the series shifts to Madison Square Garden.
As the series continues, the Celtics will need to address their shooting woes, particularly from beyond the arc. They have struggled to find their rhythm, hitting just 25% of their 3-point attempts in Game 2. Additionally, the status of Julius Randle and Anthony Edwards will be crucial as they look to bounce back in Game 3.
Indiana Pacers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
The Indiana Pacers have taken a commanding 2-0 lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers after a thrilling 120-119 victory in Game 2. Tyrese Haliburton delivered the game-winning 3-pointer, capping off a remarkable comeback for the Pacers. Despite a stellar performance from Donovan Mitchell, who scored 48 points, the Cavaliers fell short and now face an uphill battle as the series shifts to Indianapolis.
The Cavaliers are dealing with significant injury concerns, with key players Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De’Andre Hunter all sidelined. Their status for the remainder of the series remains uncertain, adding to the challenges Cleveland faces in their quest to turn the series around.
Originally Written by: NBA insiders
