2025 NBA Playoffs: Bracket, Key Matchups & Where to Watch

Julie Anne L.
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The first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs is nearing the finish line, and the intensity is only rising. While several teams have already secured their spots in the second round, a few matchups remain undecided—and the next few days will be packed with win-or-go-home showdowns.

Here’s a breakdown of the current bracket, remaining games, and important dates to watch.

Photo via Bob DeChiara

Eastern Conference: One Spot Still Up for Grabs

Already advanced:
  • (1) Cleveland Cavaliers swept the Miami Heat 4–0 in a dominant showing.
  • (2) Boston Celtics bounced the Orlando Magic 4–1 with strong performances from Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
  • (4) Indiana Pacers eliminated the Bucks in five games, finishing the series with an overtime thriller.
Still battling:
  • (3) New York Knicks vs. (6) Detroit Pistons
    The Knicks lead 3–2. Game 6 happens Thursday, May 1 at 7:30 p.m. ET (TNT). If needed, Game 7 is set for Saturday, May 3.

Western Conference: Warriors & Nuggets Look to Close

Already advanced:
  • (1) Oklahoma City Thunder swept the Grizzlies and have looked unstoppable.
  • (6) Minnesota Timberwolves stunned the Lakers with a 4–1 series win. Anthony Edwards led the charge.
Ongoing matchups:
  • (2) Houston Rockets vs. (7) Golden State Warriors
    Warriors lead 3–2. Game 6 is Friday, May 2 with Game 7 (if necessary) on Sunday, May 4.
  • (4) Denver Nuggets vs. (5) Los Angeles Clippers
    Nuggets lead 3–2. Game 6 is Thursday, May 1, with a possible Game 7 on Saturday, May 3.

Upcoming Conference Semifinals Matchups

Eastern Conference:
  • Cavaliers vs. Pacers
    Game 1: Sunday, May 4
  • Celtics vs. Knicks/Pistons
    Game 1: Monday, May 5
Western Conference:

Matchups depend on results from the Rockets-Warriors and Nuggets-Clippers series. The Thunder await their opponent in the semifinals.

Key Dates to Remember

  • May 5–6: Conference Semifinals begin (some may start as early as May 3–4)
  • May 12: NBA Draft Lottery
  • May 20–21: Conference Finals tip off
  • June 5: NBA Finals Game 1 (ABC)

Where to Watch

All games air on TNT, ESPN, ABC, and Max, depending on the matchup. Check your local listings or the NBA app for real-time updates.

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Julie Anne Loquinario

Hey, it's Julie! Fueled by coffee and cuddles from my 5 feline overlords, I'm on a perpetual quest for the perfect plate. When I'm not exploring new restos, you'll find me curled up with a good book or planning my next adventure.

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