NBA Playoffs 2025: Eastern and Western Conference Semifinals Heating Up
May 11, 2025, 11:00 PM 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 guide you through every thrilling moment of the Eastern and Western Conference semifinals. Let’s dive into the action and see how the teams are faring as they chase the coveted Larry O’Brien Trophy.
Eastern Conference
The Eastern Conference semifinals have been nothing short of electrifying. The No. 4 seed Indiana Pacers have taken the playoffs by storm, securing a commanding 3-1 series lead over the No. 1 seed Cleveland Cavaliers. The Pacers kicked off the series with a bang, winning the first two games. Although the Cavaliers managed to bounce back in Game 3, the Pacers responded with a resounding victory in Game 4, leaving the Cavs on the brink of elimination.
Meanwhile, the No. 3 seed New York Knicks have taken control of their series against the No. 2 seed Boston Celtics. With a crucial Game 4 win, the Knicks now hold a 3-1 series lead and are looking to close it out in Boston on Wednesday. The Knicks’ ability to perform in clutch moments has been a key factor in their success, with players like Mikal Bridges and Jalen Brunson stepping up when it matters most.
- Game 4: Knicks 121, Celtics 113
- What we learned: The Knicks have shown resilience, overcoming a 14-point deficit to take a commanding lead in the series. Jalen Brunson’s 39-point performance was instrumental in their Game 4 victory.
- Game 5: Knicks at Celtics (Wednesday, 7 p.m. ET, TNT)
- What to watch: The status of Jayson Tatum is crucial. After a brilliant Game 4, Tatum left the game with an injury, and his availability could be a game-changer for the Celtics.
In the other Eastern Conference matchup, the Pacers have been the surprise package, taking a 3-1 lead over the Cavaliers. Despite being the underdogs, Indiana has capitalized on Cleveland’s struggles, including an injury to Donovan Mitchell.
- Game 4: Pacers 129, Cavaliers 109
- What we learned: The Pacers’ ability to adjust to the Cavaliers’ zone defense and their dominance in transition have been key factors in their success.
- Game 5: Pacers at Cavaliers (Tuesday, 7 p.m. ET, TNT)
- What to watch: Can the Cavaliers find their offensive rhythm and extend the series? With Mitchell’s injury, the Cavs face an uphill battle.
Western Conference
Over in the Western Conference, the No. 4 seed Denver Nuggets and the No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder are locked in a fierce battle, with the series tied at 2-2. After a lopsided loss in Game 1, the Nuggets bounced back with an overtime victory in Game 3. However, the Thunder responded with a clutch win in Game 4 to even the series.
- Game 4: Thunder 92, Nuggets 87
- What we learned: The Thunder’s ability to generate clutch offense was the difference-maker in Game 4, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge.
- Game 5: Nuggets at Thunder (Tuesday, 9:30 p.m. ET, TNT)
- What to watch: Can Nikola Jokic overcome his recent struggles and lead the Nuggets to victory?
In another intriguing matchup, the No. 6 seed Minnesota Timberwolves have taken a 2-1 series lead over the No. 7 seed Golden State Warriors. The Timberwolves’ Game 3 victory was highlighted by standout performances from Jimmy Butler and Julius Randle.
- Game 3: Timberwolves 102, Warriors 97
- What we learned: Randle’s triple-double and Anthony Edwards‘ 36-point performance were key to the Timberwolves’ success.
- Game 4: Timberwolves at Warriors (Monday, 10 p.m. ET, ESPN)
- What to watch: With Stephen Curry sidelined, the Warriors face a tough challenge in Game 4.
As the playoffs continue to unfold, the drama and excitement are only intensifying. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as the race for the NBA championship heats up!
Originally Written by: NBA insiders
