NBA Conference Semifinals: A Deep Dive into the 2025 Playoffs
May 10, 2025, 01:12 AM ET
The second round of the 2025 NBA playoffs is in full swing, and if you’re a basketball fan, you’re in for a treat. Our NBA insiders are here to provide you with all the insights and updates you need for every game of the Eastern and Western conference semifinals. Let’s dive into the action-packed series and see how the teams are faring as they chase the coveted Larry O’Brien Trophy.
Eastern Conference
The No. 4 seed Indiana Pacers have made a strong start in the East semis, taking a 2-0 lead over the No. 1 seed Cleveland Cavaliers. However, the Cavaliers bounced back in Game 3 on Friday night, thanks to Donovan Mitchell‘s incredible 43-point performance. This victory has brought the series to 2-1, with the Pacers still leading.
Meanwhile, the third-seeded New York Knicks have been on fire, leading the series 2-0 against the No. 2 seed Boston Celtics. The Knicks have pulled off two outstanding comeback wins and will now enjoy home-court advantage for the next two games.
(4) Indiana Pacers lead (1) Cleveland Cavaliers 2-1
Game 3: Cavaliers 126, Pacers 104
What we learned: The Cavaliers have finally shown up. Donovan Mitchell delivered another masterful performance, scoring 43 points with nine rebounds and five assists. The Cavs had a healthy rotation for the first time all series, leading to a statement victory over the Pacers. Mitchell became the first player in Cavs playoff history with 90 points in a two-game span, following his 48-point performance in Game 2. The return of key players like Darius Garland and Evan Mobley provided a significant boost. The Cavs’ zone defense in the second quarter stifled the Pacers’ offense, allowing Cleveland to outscore Indiana 34-13 and take a 20-point lead.
Game 4: Cavaliers at Pacers (Sunday, 8 p.m. ET, TNT)
What to watch: Despite Indiana’s early lead in the series, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle anticipated a strong response from the Cavs, who won 64 games during the regular season. Cleveland delivered in Game 3, and the Pacers now have a chance in Game 4 to put Cleveland on the brink of elimination. However, the Cavs have been successful in limiting Tyrese Haliburton‘s impact, holding him to just four points in Game 3.
(3) New York Knicks lead (2) Boston Celtics 2-0
Game 2: Knicks 91, Celtics 90
What we learned: Game 1 wasn’t a fluke. The Celtics built a 20-point lead in the third quarter, but the Knicks came roaring back as Boston’s offense went cold. Jalen Brunson and the Knicks held on for another dramatic victory, leaving the defending champions down 2-0 as the series heads to Madison Square Garden.
Game 3: Celtics at Knicks (Saturday, 3:30 p.m. ET, ABC)
What to watch: Can the Celtics, who have been strong on the road, find their shooting rhythm in New York? After struggling from beyond the arc in the first two games, they’ll need to improve their 3-point shooting. Additionally, the Celtics need to regroup mentally after blowing two significant leads.
Western Conference
In the West, the No. 4 seed Denver Nuggets bounced back from a lopsided loss to the No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder with an overtime victory in Game 3. The Nuggets now lead the series 2-1.
Meanwhile, the No. 7 seed Golden State Warriors are tied 1-1 with the No. 6 seed Minnesota Timberwolves. The Warriors face a tough challenge after losing Stephen Curry to a hamstring injury in Game 1.
(4) Denver Nuggets lead (1) Oklahoma City Thunder 2-1
Game 3: Nuggets 113, Thunder 104 (OT)
What we learned: Despite MVP Nikola Jokic struggling against Oklahoma City’s defense, the Nuggets pulled out an overtime win. Jokic’s driving layup in overtime gave Denver the lead for good. Key contributions from Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, and Michael Porter Jr. were crucial in securing the victory.
Game 4: Thunder at Nuggets (Sunday, 3:30 p.m. ET, ABC)
What to watch: How will MVP finalist Shai Gilgeous-Alexander respond after a poor performance in Game 3? He struggled with his shooting and will need to step up for the Thunder to even the series.
(7) Golden State Warriors tied with (6) Minnesota Timberwolves 1-1
Game 2: Timberwolves 117, Warriors 93
What we learned: Minnesota started strong with a 13-0 run, setting the tone for the game. With Stephen Curry sidelined, the Warriors struggled offensively. Julius Randle led the Timberwolves with 24 points, while Anthony Edwards added 20 points. The Warriors will need to find offensive solutions without Curry.
Game 3: Wolves at Warriors (Saturday, 8:30 p.m. ET, ABC)
What to watch: Golden State’s offense has struggled without Curry, and they’ll need contributions from players like Jonathan Kuminga and Trayce Jackson-Davis to stay competitive. The Warriors must improve their shooting and find ways to generate points to remain in the series.
For more coverage, check out the schedules and results and offseason guides.
Originally Written by: NBA insiders
