NBA Playoffs 2025: A Deep Dive into the Eastern and Western Conference Matchups
The 2025 NBA playoffs are finally here, and what a thrilling ride it has been to get to this point! The Eastern Conference bracket was finalized on Friday, while the Western Conference kept us on the edge of our seats until the very last game. It was an overtime showdown between Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors and Kawhi Leonard and the LA Clippers that sealed the deal. Now, we have 20 teams vying for the coveted Larry O’Brien trophy, with five of them never having won it all before. Let’s dive into the details and see what each team brings to the table.
Eastern Conference
1. Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland’s road to the postseason:
The Cavaliers have been a force to be reckoned with, boasting a 64-win regular season. Their success is built on depth and teamwide shooting, with All-Star guards and elite, defensive-minded bigs. Coach Kenny Atkinson has been experimenting with various alignments and lineups to prepare for the playoffs. However, their lack of great perimeter size is a concern, especially against Boston’s Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. The midseason trade for De’Andre Hunter was a strategic move to address this vulnerability. Despite finishing the season 8-8 over their final 16 games, the Cavs are a top-tier title contender.
Will they be elite from 3?
Before March 11, the Cavs were No. 1 in 3-point shooting percentage. Since then, they’ve dropped to 19th. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland are key playmakers, but their shooting percentages have dipped post-All-Star break. Their performance from beyond the arc will be crucial in determining their playoff success.
Best-case scenario:
With their regular-season performance, the Cavaliers are legitimate title contenders. If Atkinson increases the starters’ minutes in the playoffs, Cleveland could reach another gear and potentially win their second championship in franchise history.
2. Boston Celtics
Boston’s road to the postseason:
The defending champions, the Boston Celtics, have had a smooth ride through the season, despite dealing with injuries, particularly to Kristaps Porzingis. They secured a fourth consecutive 50-win season and are favorites to return to the NBA Finals.
Can the Celtics stay healthy in the postseason?
Health is a major concern for the Celtics. If they can keep their key players healthy, they are the clear favorites to defend their title. However, Porzingis and Jrue Holiday have been in and out of the lineup, and Al Horford, though reliable, is 38. A healthy roster could lead to a second straight title.
What to watch for in Round 1:
The Celtics face Orlando, and the focus will be on Jaylen Brown’s right knee. His performance will be crucial for Boston’s title defense.
3. New York Knicks
New York’s road to the postseason:
The Knicks have had their best campaign in over a decade but have struggled against top teams like Boston and Cleveland. They’ve gone 0-8 against these teams, often losing after holding big leads.
Can the Knicks level up now that the postseason has arrived?
Tom Thibodeau’s teams are known for playing extensive minutes, and this Knicks team is no different. Jalen Brunson’s return from injury could be a blessing in disguise, as it may have saved him from further wear and tear.
What to watch in Round 1:
The Knicks’ defensive groove will be tested, especially with Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson sharing the court. Their ability to tighten up screen-and-roll defense will be key.
4. Indiana Pacers
Indiana’s road to the postseason:
The Pacers have been on fire since January, finishing the season 50-32. Tyrese Haliburton has been a standout, leading Indiana to the sixth-best offense in the league.
Can Haliburton keep up his production?
Haliburton’s elite offensive ability has been crucial for the Pacers’ turnaround. His performance will be key in their first-round matchup against the Bucks.
What to watch in Round 1:
This is a rematch from last year’s playoffs, where the Pacers upset the Bucks. With a healthy Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks will be a formidable opponent.
Western Conference
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
Oklahoma City’s road to the postseason:
The Thunder have improved significantly, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the league in scoring. They’ve broken the NBA record for point differential, even with Chet Holmgren missing most of the season.
Will a secondary scorer step up?
Gilgeous-Alexander starred last season, but the Thunder need Jalen Williams to step up as a secondary scorer in the playoffs.
Best-case scenario:
With a record-breaking season, the Thunder are poised to win the championship with ease. Their dominance could rival that of the 2016-17 Warriors.
2. Houston Rockets
Houston’s road to the postseason:
Under coach Ime Udoka, the Rockets have become a gritty, tough team with a focus on defense. They’ve finished with 52 wins and are built in Udoka’s image.
How will Houston overcome their lack of playoff experience?
With only two players having postseason experience, the Rockets will rely on their physicality and style of play. Consistent contributions from key players will be crucial.
What to watch for in Round 1:
The Rockets face the Warriors, and their ability to generate half-court offense will be tested. Amen Thompson’s defense on Stephen Curry will be a key factor.
3. Los Angeles Lakers
Los Angeles’ road to the postseason:
The Lakers made headlines by acquiring Luka Doncic in a shocking trade. Despite some drama, the team has had more successes than failures, with LeBron James and Doncic showing signs of chemistry.
How will the trio of Doncic, James, and Reaves fare in the postseason together?
With limited games together, the trio will need to find their rhythm quickly. Coach JJ Redick believes in preparation and execution over experience.
What to watch in Round 1:
The Lakers face the Timberwolves, and their size will be tested. Rebounding will be crucial, and Doncic will face his former team in a storyline-rich matchup.
4. Denver Nuggets
Denver’s road to the postseason:
The Nuggets made significant changes, parting ways with their coach and GM. With Nikola Jokic playing his best basketball, the team is looking to maximize his prime years.
Can Jamal Murray be Playoff Murray again?
Murray’s playoff form will be crucial for the Nuggets’ success. His health and performance will determine their playoff run.
What to watch in Round 1:
The Nuggets face the Clippers, and the matchup between Ivica Zubac and Jokic will be key. Zubac’s defense on Jokic could determine the series outcome.
Conclusion
The 2025 NBA playoffs promise to be an exciting and unpredictable journey. With a mix of seasoned champions and hungry contenders, every game will be a battle. From the Cavaliers’ quest for another title to the Thunder’s record-breaking season, the stage is set for an unforgettable postseason. As the games unfold, keep an eye on the key matchups, X factors, and the stars who will shine brightest on the biggest stage. Let the games begin!
Originally Written by: NBA Insiders
