Western Conference
(1) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (8) Memphis Grizzlies
The Thunder have dominated the series, taking a commanding 2-0 lead. Their high-powered offense and solid defense have been too much for Memphis to handle. From the opening tip in Game 1, Oklahoma City set the tone, outscoring Memphis by over 50 points in a performance that will go down as one of the most lopsided playoff openers in NBA history. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been in MVP form, slicing through the defense while Chet Holmgren anchors things in the paint. Memphis, meanwhile, has struggled without Ja Morant, and their supporting cast hasn’t been able to generate enough offense to keep pace. Game 3 will be a do-or-die situation as the series shifts to FedExForum.
(2) Houston Rockets vs. (7) Golden State Warriors
The series is tied at 1-1. Jalen Green led Houston with 38 points in Game 2, hitting 8 of 18 from three-point range. Golden State’s loss was compounded by the injury of Jimmy Butler III, who exited in the first quarter with a pelvic contusion and is awaiting MRI results. Green’s explosion in Game 2 was the push Houston desperately needed after a flat performance in Game 1. The Rockets’ fast pace and outside shooting made the difference, particularly in the third quarter when they pulled away. For the Warriors, Steph Curry continues to produce, but without Butler’s defense and playmaking, Steve Kerr is forced to lean more heavily on the bench, which has been inconsistent so far. All eyes are on Game 3, especially with Butler’s status in question.
(3) Los Angeles Lakers vs. (6) Minnesota Timberwolves
- Game 1: Timberwolves 117, Lakers 95
- Game 2: Lakers 94, Timberwolves 85
The series is tied at 1-1. The Timberwolves exposed the Lakers‘ critical lack of rim protection in Game 1, leading to a strong three-point shooting performance. The Lakers bounced back in Game 2, evening the series. Anthony Edwards has been a rising star this postseason, attacking the paint relentlessly and hitting clutch shots. In Game 2, however, the Lakers tightened their perimeter defense and saw better contributions from role players like Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves. LeBron James and Anthony Davis combined for 50 points in the win, and the series heads to Minnesota with a renewed sense of urgency. Whoever wins Game 3 could take firm control of this back-and-forth battle.
(4) Denver Nuggets vs. (5) Los Angeles Clippers
This series has been tightly contested, with both teams exchanging victories. The series is tied at 1-1, and the next game will be crucial in determining who advances to the semi-finals. Nikola Jokic has continued to be an un-guardable force for Denver, while the Clippers are leaning heavily on Kawhi Leonard’s two-way excellence. Jamal Murray and Paul George have both had their moments, but neither team has shown clear dominance.
Eastern Conference
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers vs. (8) Miami Heat
The Cavaliers have taken control of the series with dominant performances in both games. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland have been standout players, leading Cleveland to a 2-0 series lead. A win in Game 3 would secure their spot in the semi-finals. Miami, despite a late push in Game 2 led by Tyler Herro, simply hasn’t matched Cleveland’s intensity or offensive power. Evan Mobley’s rim protection has made life difficult for Bam Adebayo inside, and the Cavs have dictated pace and style so far. Game 3 in Miami is a must-win for the Heat, who are in danger of being swept out of the first round.
(2) Boston Celtics vs. (7) Orlando Magic
The Celtics have taken an early 2-0 lead in the series, with Jaylen Brown leading the charge in Game 2 with 36 points. The Magic have been competitive but have yet to secure a win. Game 3 is crucial for Orlando to stay in the competition. Boston’s defensive rotations have limited Paolo Banchero’s effectiveness, while Jayson Tatum continues to quietly fill the stat sheet. Orlando has shown heart, with Franz Wagner and Cole Anthony stepping up, but they’ll need a breakout game and a home-court boost to shift momentum.
(3) New York Knicks vs. (6) Detroit Pistons
The Knicks and Pistons have exchanged victories, with the series tied at 1-1. The Pistons ended a 15-game playoff losing streak with their Game 2 victory, marking their first playoff win since 2008. Game 3 will be key in determining the semi-finalists. Cade Cunningham’s late-game poise helped seal the win, while Isaiah Stewart disrupted the Knicks‘ interior scoring. Jalen Brunson must step up if New York hopes to reclaim control.
(4) Indiana Pacers vs. (5) Milwaukee Bucks
The Pacers have taken a commanding 2-0 lead in the series, with strong performances from their key players. Despite a dominant performance by Giannis Antetokounmpo in Game 2, the Bucks struggled defensively and allowed the Pacers to capitalize on repeated breakdowns. Game 3 is crucial for Milwaukee to stay in the game. Tyrese Haliburton has been sensational, coordinating the offense with impressive precision. Without Damian Lillard, the Bucks are missing a second star to relieve pressure off Giannis, and it’s showing.
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