NBA Playoffs 2024-25: Western Conference Drama Unfolds
The 2024-25 NBA playoffs are heating up, 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 as teams battle it out for a spot in the Finals. Let’s dive into the latest action from the Western Conference, where the intensity is palpable and the stakes are sky-high.
On Thursday, the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder pulled off a remarkable comeback to take a commanding 3-0 series lead against the No. 8 seed Memphis Grizzlies. The game took a dramatic turn when Ja Morant was ruled out of the game after a hard fall. Meanwhile, the No. 5 seed LA Clippers celebrated their first playoff game at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, by defeating the No. 4 seed Denver Nuggets to take a 2-1 series lead after splitting the first two matchups at Ball Arena.
Friday brought more excitement as the No. 3 seed Los Angeles Lakers faced a tough road loss in Game 3 against the No. 6 seed Minnesota Timberwolves. Meanwhile, the No. 7 seed Golden State Warriors are anxiously awaiting updates on the injury status of Jimmy Butler III ahead of their Saturday showdown against the No. 2 seed Houston Rockets in San Francisco.
As the Western Conference playoffs continue to unfold, here’s what you need to know and what to keep an eye on in all four series:
For more coverage, check out the East first-round takeaways and stay updated with the schedules and results. Plus, don’t miss our offseason guides for all 30 teams.
Friday’s Game Recap
Minnesota Timberwolves Lead Los Angeles Lakers 2-1
In Game 3, the Minnesota Timberwolves secured a 116-104 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. The game was tightly contested until Minnesota unleashed a 13-1 run to seal the win. The Timberwolves dominated points in the paint 56-26, committed only 11 turnovers compared to the Lakers’ 19, and nearly doubled the fast-break points (21-11). Despite Luka Doncic struggling with a stomach flu, LeBron James carried the Lakers with a record-setting performance, scoring 38 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. However, it wasn’t enough to overcome Minnesota’s brilliance, led by Jaden McDaniels with 30 points and Anthony Edwards with 29 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists.
Looking ahead to Game 4, the Lakers will need to regroup quickly for a 2:30 p.m. local tip on Sunday. The urgency to avoid a 3-1 deficit should fuel their energy, but questions remain about the stamina of James, Doncic, and Austin Reaves, who all played over 40 minutes in Game 3.
Oklahoma City Thunder Lead Memphis Grizzlies 3-0
In a historic Game 3, the Oklahoma City Thunder overcame a 29-point deficit to defeat the Memphis Grizzlies 114-108. The Grizzlies lost their superstar Ja Morant to a hip injury, and with his exit, their hopes of making the series competitive dwindled. The Thunder’s comeback marked the largest second-half comeback in NBA playoff history. Jalen Williams sealed the victory with a crucial free throw in the final moments.
As Game 4 approaches, the big question is whether Morant will be available. With a quick turnaround for a 3:30 p.m. ET tip on Saturday, his status remains uncertain. Before his injury, Morant contributed 15 points and five assists.
LA Clippers Lead Denver Nuggets 2-1
The LA Clippers dominated the Denver Nuggets in Game 3, winning 117-83. Denver struggled to score outside of their two superstars, Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, who combined for 46 points. The Clippers, on the other hand, showcased a balanced attack with Norman Powell, James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, and Ivica Zubac all scoring in double figures. The Clippers’ three-point shooting was a key factor, doubling the Nuggets’ production from beyond the arc.
As Game 4 looms, the Nuggets face injury concerns with Russell Westbrook dealing with left foot inflammation and Michael Porter Jr. playing through a shoulder sprain. The next two days are crucial for Denver’s hopes of extending the series.
Golden State Warriors Tied with Houston Rockets 1-1
In Game 2, the Houston Rockets defeated the Golden State Warriors 109-94, thanks to a 38-point performance from Jalen Green. The Rockets matched the Warriors’ three-point shooting prowess and leaned on their physicality to secure the win. Houston’s coach, Ime Udoka, emphasized the importance of youth, athleticism, and physicality in wearing down the Warriors.
As Game 3 approaches, all eyes are on Jimmy Butler III and his status after a scary fall in Game 2. Butler’s presence has been pivotal for the Warriors, and his absence could significantly impact the series. If Butler is unable to play, Jonathan Kuminga may see an increased role, having previously excelled against the Rockets.
Originally Written by: NBA Insiders
