NBA Playoffs 2025: Game 7 Showdowns Set to Thrill Fans
As the NBA playoffs’ second round is set to tip off on Sunday, the excitement is palpable, but before we get there, two pivotal Game 7s are on the horizon, promising to deliver high-stakes drama and unforgettable moments. The Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves have already punched their tickets to the next round with decisive victories over their first-round opponents. However, the other two Western Conference series have been nothing short of thrilling, with both matchups heading to a decisive Game 7.
The LA Clippers managed to force a Game 7 against the Denver Nuggets with a hard-fought 111-105 victory on Thursday. Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets, who found themselves in a 3-1 hole, kept their season alive with a 115-107 win over the Golden State Warriors on Friday night. These two teams will now face off on Sunday, with the winner earning the right to challenge the Timberwolves in the second round.
With the first round’s most significant games looming this weekend, let’s dive into the key factors for both Game 7s and explore how each of the four teams can secure their spot in the next round. Our NBA insiders are here to answer the burning questions surrounding these crucial matchups.
LA Clippers at Denver Nuggets
How can the Clippers advance?
The Clippers made a strategic adjustment in Game 6 by opting for a smaller lineup featuring Nicolas Batum. This move was intended to create more space for James Harden and Kawhi Leonard, and it paid off. Even Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets’ three-time MVP, acknowledged the effectiveness of this change, noting Batum’s shooting prowess and defensive versatility. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue had been hesitant to make this offense-for-defense swap due to his appreciation for Kris Dunn’s defensive skills. However, if Batum can replicate his Game 6 performance, the Clippers have a winning formula they need to stick to.
How can the Nuggets advance?
The Nuggets have the advantage of size and physicality, and when they’ve imposed their will on the Clippers, they’ve been successful. It all starts with Jokic, who needs to challenge Clippers center Ivica Zubac and draw more fouls than he did in Game 6, where he only attempted two free throws. By being aggressive early, Jokic can open up the Denver offense, allowing players like Jamal Murray to shine, as seen in Game 5.
How did we get here?
This series has lived up to the hype, with each star player having their moment in the spotlight. From Westbrook’s heroics in Game 1 to Leonard’s brilliance in Game 2, and Jokic and Aaron Gordon’s standout performances in Game 4, it’s been a rollercoaster ride. Both coaches have done an excellent job of motivating their teams and making necessary adjustments. The question now is which team has more left in the tank? The Nuggets have a history of Game 7 experience, while Lue is known for his prowess in elimination games. Jokic and Leonard both have Finals MVPs to their names, adding to the intrigue.
As Jokic aptly put it, “If you like basketball, like a real fan, not a fake fan of basketball, these are the games you should watch.” This Game 7 promises to be a classic showdown. — Ramona Shelburne
Key factors for Game 7
Fatigue will be a critical factor to watch. Jamal Murray has logged the most minutes of any player in the first round, with Jokic not far behind. Two other Denver starters, Christian Braun and Aaron Gordon, have also played significant minutes. The Clippers, while deeper, have relied heavily on their stars, with Harden playing the entire second half of Game 6. A strong start will be crucial, as it could allow coaches to manage their players’ minutes more effectively.
The real winner of this grueling series might just be the Oklahoma City Thunder, who advanced with a sweep of the Memphis Grizzlies. Whichever team can muster the energy for Game 7 will likely move on. — Kevin Pelton
Golden State Warriors at Houston Rockets
How can the Warriors advance?
Golden State’s wealth of Game 7 experience could be their ace in the hole. Stephen Curry and Draymond Green have been in five Game 7s, while Jimmy Butler has played in four. Coach Steve Kerr has also been in four. The Warriors need to crack Houston’s zone defense and free up Curry, who had 29 points in Game 6 but struggled in the second half. Curry and Green have a 3-2 record in Game 7s, and Curry’s career average of 32.6 points in these games is impressive.
Butler will need to deliver another “Playoff Jimmy” performance, but the Warriors also need a third scorer to step up. Whether it’s Brandin Podziemski, Buddy Hield, or Moses Moody, someone needs to hit timely shots to break the zone. Draymond Green’s defensive prowess will be crucial, and the Warriors must limit turnovers and contain Fred VanVleet. Kerr has hinted at potential lineup changes, including possibly giving Jonathan Kuminga some playing time. — Ohm Youngmisuk
How can the Rockets advance?
Coach Ime Udoka has emphasized consistency and making simple plays. Houston’s double-big lineups have posed challenges for Golden State, and their zone defense has been effective, even with Curry on the floor. The Rockets need to maintain their physicality and continue winning the battle in the paint and on second-chance points. Udoka’s mantra of turning defense into offense has been successful, as seen in Game 6 when Houston scored 22 points off 17 Golden State turnovers. Players like Amen Thompson, Dillon Brooks, and Jalen Green will be key in generating fast-break opportunities. — Michael C. Wright
How did they get here?
The Warriors took Game 1 in Houston, with Curry and Butler leading the way. However, Houston responded with a dominant Game 2 performance, and the series has been a back-and-forth battle ever since. The Rockets’ zone defense has stymied Golden State at times, forcing a Game 7. — Youngmisuk
Key factors for Game 7
Houston’s use of double-big lineups with Steven Adams and Alperen Sengun has been a defining element of this series. The Rockets’ hybrid defense has kept a defender in Curry’s airspace, making it challenging for him to find open looks. While Curry still managed 29 points in Game 6, he struggled with efficiency. The Warriors need to find a lineup that can counter Houston’s strategies, and Kerr’s decision-making will be crucial. — Pelton
Originally Written by: Multiple contributors
