The second round of the 2025 NBA playoffs has been packed with excitement, featuring thrilling overtime finishes and dramatic fourth-quarter comebacks. Surprisingly, none of the higher-seeded teams managed to win their respective Game 1 matchups. However, teams like the Boston Celtics and Minnesota Timberwolves have since recovered and evened their series. With stars like Stephen Curry and Karl-Anthony Towns facing injuries, the future direction of these series remains highly unpredictable. Following a second round filled with unexpected turns and competitive back-and-forth battles, our NBA insiders delve into the main takeaways, identify players under pressure, and discuss what to look for as teams vie for a spot in the conference finals.
New York Knicks (3) vs. Boston Celtics (2)
Who faces the most pressure heading into the crucial Game 4?
It`s easy to point to Jayson Tatum or Jaylen Brown, given their shooting struggles in the series. However, the Celtics as a team have proven depth and a strong track record. The real need for a standout performance is on the Knicks` side, specifically from All-Star guard Jalen Brunson. While highly praised for his clutch play, Brunson has been effectively neutralized by Boston`s defense, particularly by Derrick White and Jrue Holiday, resulting in just 38% shooting from the field and fewer free-throw attempts. The Knicks` offense has struggled, averaging only 95 points in regulation and shooting 42% overall. Adding to their woes is Karl-Anthony Towns` hand injury and the Celtics` strategy of intentionally fouling poor free-throw shooter Mitchell Robinson to disrupt possessions. Brian Windhorst
Denver Nuggets (4) vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (1)
What needs to happen for this series to reach Game 7?
The series is likely headed for a Game 7 if Nikola Jokic rediscovers his scoring touch in one of the upcoming games. The three-time MVP is currently in an unusual slump, shooting under 40% from the field in three consecutive games with at least 15 shot attempts – a first in his career (regular season or playoffs). Jokic, known for his efficiency, shot just 33.3% during this stretch and has more turnovers than assists in the series. The top-ranked Oklahoma City defense deserves significant credit for making scoring difficult for Jokic and will continue to apply pressure as the series unfolds. Tim MacMahon
Golden State Warriors (7) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (6)
What is the Wolves` primary weakness, and how can the Warriors capitalize on it without Stephen Curry?
Ranking in the top 10 in both offense and defense during the regular season, the Timberwolves have few obvious weaknesses, a fact reinforced by their strong record since March. However, they haven`t consistently protected the ball as effectively as expected. Despite leading the series 2-1, Minnesota has committed more turnovers than Golden State in two out of three games. Although the Warriors won the turnover battle in Game 3, they only scored 13 points off Wolves` errors, while Minnesota scored 16 points off Golden State`s. If the Warriors can continue to pressure the Wolves` ball handlers using defenders like Draymond Green, Brandin Podziemski, Gary Payton II, and Jonathan Kuminga, and improve their transition offense after forcing turnovers, they might be able to steal a win, extend the series, and potentially allow Stephen Curry time to recover from his left hamstring injury for a possible Game 6 return. Dave McMenamin
Indiana Pacers (4) vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (1)
How can the Cavaliers turn this series around?
The Cavaliers can bounce back if they regain their historically strong regular-season offensive form. Cleveland finished the regular season with the NBA`s best offensive rating. However, their offense has struggled significantly throughout the series, apart from Donovan Mitchell`s performance, culminating in a decisive Game 4 loss that put them on the verge of elimination. In the first half of Sunday night`s game, the Cavs scored only 39 points, managed just three assists, and turned the ball over 14 times. Compounding the issue, Mitchell, who is scoring at a rate not seen by a Cavs player in a playoff series since LeBron James, missed the second half due to an ankle injury. Jamal Collier
Analysis & Predictions
What has been the biggest surprise of the second round so far?
Historically, three teams haven`t posted a point differential of +9 or better per game in the NBA. The Thunder, Cavaliers, and Celtics did this season and then dominated their first-round opponents, going a combined 12-1. They seemed destined for deep playoff runs. Therefore, the biggest surprise is how much this trio has struggled collectively in the second round, holding a combined 4-7 record against Denver, Indiana, and New York. While injuries and shooting luck play a role, this unexpected parity has resulted in more exciting and competitive games overall. Zach Kram
My NBA Finals picks are:
Despite both teams trailing 2-1 as of Sunday morning, I am sticking with the Celtics and the Thunder for the NBA Finals. Boston`s Game 3 performance demonstrated their favorable matchup against the Knicks when their outside shooting is on form, making them strong favorites for the Eastern Conference Finals if they advance. In the Western Conference, Minnesota appears to be the most solid contender to reach the conference finals and has matched up well against Oklahoma City. Nevertheless, the Thunder possess home-court advantage throughout the playoffs, which makes them the favored team to emerge from the West. Kevin Pelton
