NBA Playoffs 2025: Eastern and Western Conference Semifinals Drama Unfolds

NBA Playoffs 2025: Eastern and Western Conference Semifinals Drama Unfolds

May 13, 2025, 01:00 AM ET

The second round of the 2025 NBA playoffs is in full swing, 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 to stay on top of the action.

Let’s dive into the Eastern Conference first, where the No. 4 seed Indiana Pacers have taken a commanding 3-1 series lead over the No. 1 seed Cleveland Cavaliers. The Pacers started strong, winning the first two games, and despite a Cavaliers’ comeback in Game 3, Indiana bounced back with a dominant Game 4 victory, leaving them just one win away from advancing.

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 lead the series 3-1 and are looking to close it out in Boston on Wednesday.

Over in the Western Conference, the No. 4 seed Denver Nuggets managed to even their series with the No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder after a thrilling overtime victory in Game 3. However, the Thunder responded with a clutch win in Game 4, setting the stage for an intense showdown.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have also made waves by taking a 3-1 series lead against the Golden State Warriors. After stealing Game 3 at Chase Center, the Timberwolves delivered a statement win in Game 4, putting them on the brink of advancing to the Western Conference Finals for the second consecutive season.

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.

Eastern Conference

(3) New York Knicks lead (2) Boston Celtics 3-1

Game 4: Knicks 121, Celtics 113

What we learned: The New York Knicks have shown resilience and determination, even after a rough start in Game 4. Despite trailing by 14 points early on, the Knicks rallied and dominated the fourth quarter, thanks to standout performances from Mikal Bridges and Jalen Brunson, who scored a team-high 39 points. The Knicks are now in the driver’s seat, leading the series 3-1 and poised to reach the Eastern Conference finals.

Game 5: Knicks at Celtics (Wednesday, 7 p.m. ET, TNT)

What to watch: All eyes will be on Jayson Tatum, who played brilliantly in Game 4, scoring 42 points. However, Tatum’s status is uncertain after he suffered an injury late in the game. The Celtics will need him at his best to stave off elimination and keep their championship hopes alive.

(4) Indiana Pacers lead (1) Cleveland Cavaliers 3-1

Game 4: Pacers 129, Cavaliers 109

What we learned: The Indiana Pacers have defied expectations, taking a 3-1 series lead over the top-seeded Cavaliers. Their Game 4 victory was a statement, as they led by as many as 44 points, their largest playoff lead since 1998. The Pacers capitalized on Cleveland’s struggles, particularly after Donovan Mitchell suffered an ankle injury. Indiana’s ability to adjust and exploit the Cavaliers’ zone defense has been key to their success.

Game 5: Pacers at Cavaliers (Tuesday, 7 p.m. ET, TNT)

What to watch: The Cavaliers face a must-win situation, and their offense needs to find its rhythm. With Mitchell’s status uncertain, Cleveland will rely on Darius Garland and Evan Mobley to step up and deliver if they hope to extend the series.

Western Conference

(6) Minnesota Timberwolves lead (7) Golden State Warriors 3-1

Game 4: Timberwolves 117, Warriors 110

What we learned: The Timberwolves have taken a commanding 3-1 lead over the Warriors, thanks to a dominant third quarter in Game 4. Jonathan Kuminga showed flashes of brilliance, but the Warriors struggled without Stephen Curry. Anthony Edwards was the standout performer, scoring 16 of his 30 points in the pivotal third quarter.

Game 5: Warriors at Timberwolves (Wednesday 9:30 p.m. ET, TNT)

What to watch: The Warriors are on the brink of elimination, and their fight will be tested in Game 5. With Curry’s return uncertain, Golden State will need standout performances from Jimmy Butler, Kuminga, Draymond Green, and Buddy Hield to keep their season alive.

(1) Oklahoma City Thunder tied with (4) Denver Nuggets 2-2

Game 4: Thunder 92, Nuggets 87

What we learned: The Thunder managed to pull out a close win in Game 4, thanks to clutch performances from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Despite a slow start, the Thunder found their rhythm in the second half, with Gilgeous-Alexander delivering key baskets down the stretch.

Game 5: Nuggets at Thunder (Tuesday, 9:30 p.m. ET, TNT)

What to watch: The focus will be on Nikola Jokic, who has struggled in recent games. The Nuggets need their star player to regain his form and lead them to victory in this pivotal Game 5.

• Can the Knicks close out the Celtics in Game 5?
• Will the Cavaliers find a way to extend their series against the Pacers?
• Can the Warriors rally without Stephen Curry?
• Will Nikola Jokic bounce back for the Nuggets?