NBA Playoffs 2025: Drama and Surprises in the Semifinals Archives - Sportsfeed - Sports News Powered by AI

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Offseason guides Western Conference Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets The series between the No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder and the No. 4 seed Denver Nuggets is tied at 3-3. In Game 6, the Nuggets secured a 119-107 victory over the Thunder. What we learned: The Denver Nuggets are a resilient team, refusing to go down without a fight. Jamal Murray, despite being under the weather, played a crucial role, scoring 25 points, grabbing 8 rebounds, and dishing out 7 assists. Nikola Jokic delivered a dominant performance with 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 8 assists. Key contributions from role players like Christian Braun and Julian Strawther helped the Nuggets force a Game 7 back in Oklahoma City. Game 7: Nuggets at Thunder (Sunday, 3:30 p.m. ET, ABC) What to watch: All eyes will be on All-Star forward Jalen Williams, who has struggled with his shooting in recent games. The Thunder will need him to step up alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has been performing admirably. On the Nuggets’ side, Aaron Gordon’s hamstring issue could be a concern, potentially impacting Denver’s chances. Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Golden State Warriors The No. 6 seed Minnesota Timberwolves have won their series against the No. 7 seed Golden State Warriors 4-1. In Game 5, the Timberwolves secured a 121-110 victory. What we learned: The absence of Stephen Curry was a significant blow to the Warriors, who struggled to find their rhythm. The Timberwolves capitalized on this, with Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle leading the charge. Brandin Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga also made valuable contributions, but it wasn’t enough for the Warriors without Curry. What to watch for in the Western Conference finals: The Timberwolves are back in the Western Conference finals, eager to make their first NBA Finals appearance. With a revamped roster and more experience, they are poised to take on either the Nuggets or the Thunder. Anthony Edwards will have the opportunity to showcase his talents against top-tier opponents like Nikola Jokic or Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Eastern Conference New York Knicks vs. Boston Celtics The No. 3 seed New York Knicks lead the No. 2 seed Boston Celtics 3-2. In Game 5, the Celtics secured a 127-102 victory. What we learned: Despite the absence of Jayson Tatum, the Celtics showed resilience and determination. Derrick White’s stellar shooting performance, along with contributions from Jaylen Brown and Luke Kornet, propelled Boston to victory. The Knicks struggled to respond, and Jalen Brunson’s foul trouble added to their woes. Game 6: Celtics at Knicks (Friday, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN) What to watch: The Celtics will need to maintain their momentum as they head to Madison Square Garden. The Knicks, eager to close out the series at home, will need to tighten their defense and find ways to contain Boston’s offensive threats. Luke Kornet’s defensive performance will be crucial in determining the outcome. Indiana Pacers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers The No. 4 seed Indiana Pacers have won their series against the No. 1 seed Cleveland Cavaliers 4-1. In Game 5, the Pacers secured a 114-105 victory. What we learned: The Pacers’ stars shone brightly, with Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam leading the charge. The Cavaliers, despite Donovan Mitchell’s efforts, struggled to find consistency among their core players. The Pacers’ ability to come from behind and secure victories has been a hallmark of their playoff run. What to watch for in the Eastern Conference finals: The Pacers are headed to the conference finals for the second consecutive season, brimming with confidence after their upset of the top-seeded Cavaliers. They await their opponent, with potential rematches against the Knicks or Celtics on the horizon. Indiana’s knack for comeback victories will be a key storyline as they aim for their first NBA Finals appearance.

May 15, 2025
9:46 pm