NBA Insiders
May 12, 2025, 07:00 AM ET
The second round of the 2025 NBA playoffs has been nothing short of electrifying, with overtime thrillers and dramatic fourth-quarter comebacks keeping fans on the edge of their seats. It’s been a rollercoaster ride, and if you’re a fan of the underdog, this round has been particularly satisfying. None of the higher-seeded teams in the conference semifinals managed to secure a win in Game 1, setting the stage for some unexpected twists and turns. However, the Boston Celtics and Minnesota Timberwolves have since bounced back, showing their resilience and determination.
But let’s not get too comfortable. The pressure is mounting, and with injuries to key players like Stephen Curry and Karl-Anthony Towns, the direction these series will take is anyone’s guess. It’s a high-stakes game, and every move counts. After a Round 2 start full of surprises and back-and-forth series, our NBA insiders are here to break down the biggest takeaways, players under pressure, and what to watch as teams strive to break through to the conference finals.
(3) New York Knicks vs. (2) Boston Celtics
Who is under the most pressure for Monday’s vital Game 4?
When it comes to pressure, the spotlight often falls on the stars. For the Celtics, it’s easy to point fingers at Jayson Tatum and his penchant for long jumpers, or Jaylen Brown, whose shooting has been less than stellar. Brown’s 5-of-23 on 3-pointers is a stat that speaks volumes. Yet, despite their shooting woes, the Celtics have five players averaging in double figures and a reputation for being a formidable force.
On the other hand, the Knicks are in dire need of a standout performance from All-Star guard Jalen Brunson. His popularity in New York is well-deserved, thanks to his clutch performances. However, the Celtics’ defense, particularly Derrick White and Jrue Holiday, has been relentless, holding Brunson to just 38% shooting in the series. The Knicks are averaging a mere 95 points in regulation and shooting a dismal 42%. With Karl-Anthony Towns nursing a left hand injury and the Celtics exploiting Mitchell Robinson‘s free-throw struggles, the Knicks have their work cut out for them. — Brian Windhorst
(4) Denver Nuggets vs. (1) Oklahoma City Thunder
This series will go to Game 7 if ____
The Denver Nuggets’ hopes rest on Nikola Jokic rediscovering his shooting touch. The three-time MVP is in an unusual slump, shooting under 40% from the floor in three consecutive games with at least 15 attempts for the first time in his career. Jokic’s efficiency has taken a hit, with a 33.3% shooting percentage and more turnovers than assists in the series. Credit goes to Oklahoma City’s top-ranked defense for making life difficult for Jokic, and they’ll continue to apply pressure as the series progresses. — Tim MacMahon
(7) Golden State Warriors vs. (6) Minnesota Timberwolves
What is the Wolves’ biggest weakness, and how do the Warriors exploit that without Stephen Curry?
The Timberwolves have been a force to be reckoned with, ranking in the top 10 in both offense and defense during the regular season. Their 23-6 record since March is a testament to their prowess. However, turnovers have been a chink in their armor. Despite being up 2-1 on Golden State, the Wolves have committed more turnovers than the Warriors in two out of three games. In Game 3, they committed 21 turnovers to the Warriors’ 15. If the Warriors can capitalize on these mistakes, using players like Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler to disrupt the Wolves’ ball handlers, they might just extend the series and give Curry a chance to return for Game 6. — Dave McMenamin
(4) Indiana Pacers vs. (1) Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavs can bounce back in this series if they ____
The Cleveland Cavaliers need to tap into their regular-season offensive magic. They boasted the No. 1 offensive rating in the NBA, but outside of Donovan Mitchell, it’s been a struggle. Game 4’s blowout loss was a wake-up call, with the Cavs scoring just 39 points in the first half, generating three assists, and committing 14 turnovers. Mitchell, who has been a standout performer, didn’t play in the second half due to an ankle injury. — Jamal Collier
Bonus!
What has been the biggest surprise of the second round so far?
For the first time in NBA history, three teams have posted a point differential of plus-9 or better per game. The Thunder, Cavaliers, and Celtics seemed destined for the conference finals, but the second round has thrown a curveball. Despite injuries and shooting luck, these teams are collectively struggling, with a combined 4-7 record against Denver, Indiana, and New York. The unexpected parity has made for more entertaining games and a more competitive round overall. — Zach Kram
My NBA Finals picks are:
Despite trailing 2-1, I’m sticking with the Celtics and the Thunder. Boston’s Game 3 performance highlighted their matchup advantages against the Knicks. With the Cavaliers not at full strength, the Celtics would be favored in the Eastern Conference finals. Out West, Minnesota is a strong contender for the conference finals, but the Thunder’s home-court advantage makes them the favorites. — Kevin Pelton
Originally Written by: NBA insiders
