The wait is over. The 2025 NBA Playoffs are here! It will officially begin on Saturday, April 19, and basketball fans prepare for a packed weekend of high-stakes matchups, big-name stars, and early-season bragging rights. With the Play-In Tournament wrapping up on April 18, the stage is now set for the first official wave of postseason action—and it starts with a bang.
Oh, wait, you know what’s even better? The best part is that Sunday, April 20, also happens to be Easter Sunday, giving fans a full day of hoops to enjoy alongside their holiday brunch.
However, not keeping you waiting for much longer, so here’s a complete look at the opening weekend of the 2025 NBA Playoffs—matchups, timing, bracket implications, and a few storylines that already feel heavy.
Who will go against who? A complete guide
Game 1: Bucks (4th Seed) vs. Pacers (5th Seed)
Time: 1:00 PM ET
Where to Watch: ESPN
Stadium: Bankers Life Fieldhouse, Indianapolis
Get ready for the Indiana Pacers’ fast and confident style as they draw the brutal task of containing Giannis Antetokounmpo and a battle-tested Bucks squad. The Pacers will have to push the tempo—run, shoot, and catch Milwaukee off balance—but the playoffs have a way of slowing things down, and that’s where the Bucks thrive. If Milwaukee can dominate the paint early and use their size advantage, things could get physical fast. Indiana’s hopes rest on Tyrese Haliburton’s ability to control the offense and make timely plays. If the Bucks control the boards and the pace, it’s going to be a tough road for the Pacers. Whatever it is, we are sure it’s all worth our time.
Game 2: Clippers (5th Seed) vs. Nuggets (4th Seed)
Time: 3:30 PM ET
Where to Watch: ESPN
Stadium: Ball Arena, Denver
This one’s set up to be a battle of two elite stars: Kawhi Leonard vs. Nikola Jokic. The Clippers are hoping Kawhi is the postseason weapon they’ve been waiting for. But the Nuggets? They’ve got the Serbian big man, Nikola Jokic. The unpredictable, dominant, and capable of breaking down defenses from all over the court- oh wow, what a perfect person. It’s sure that Denver will lean on Nikola Jokic’s passing and scoring, but the Clippers have their own weapons, like James Harden, Ben Simmons, and many more. This game is definitely worth big shots and game-changing moments.
Game 3: Pistons (6th Seed) vs. Knicks (3rd Seed)
Time: 6:00 PM ET
Where to Watch: ESPN
Stadium: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit
Fans know that the New York Knicks are solid on both ends, but the Pistons come into this matchup as the wild card. Cade Cunningham has been stellar, and the young star’s ability to lead his team could pose a challenge for the Knicks. But New York has Jalen Brunson, who’s been the team’s backbone all year. His poise and shot-making will be crucial in this series. If the Pistons can get aggressive on defense and push the tempo, they might just throw the Knicks off their rhythm. It’s all about who can control the pace, and the Knicks have the edge in experience.
NBA Playoffs schedule for next weekend: pic.twitter.com/kaEQzmnzzu
— Sam Amico (@AmicoHoops) April 14, 2025
Game 4: Timberwolves (6th Seed) vs. Lakers (3rd Seed)
Time: 8:30 PM ET
Where to Watch: ABC
Stadium: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
The Timberwolves are hungry. Anthony Edwards is emerging as a star, and the Wolves are ready to prove themselves on the big stage. But standing in their way is the giant legend LeBron James, who’s looking for one last run at another title. LeBron’s leadership and all-around game will be crucial for the Lakers. Oh, wait, there’s also Luka Doncic now!! Which means a double hit. But don’t count out the Timberwolves—Edwards, Jalen Duren, Dennis Schröder, and all may keep them on their toes, making this one of the most unpredictable series of the first round of the NBA Playoffs.
Sunday, April 20 – Easter Sunday Showdowns
Game 5: Team TBD vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (1st Seed)
Time: 1:00 PM ET
Where to Watch: TBD
Stadium: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City Thunder has been nothing short of impressive this season. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the way, the Thunder are ready to show their best. They’ll need to play smart and efficient basketball if they hope to advance deep into the NBA playoffs.
Game 6: Team TBD vs. Houston Rockets (2nd Seed)
Time: 1:00 PM ET
Where to Watch: TBD
Stadium: Toyota Center, Houston
Jalen Green is the Rockets’ X-factor. He’s had an up-and-down season, but when he’s on, Houston becomes a tough team to beat. The Rockets may be young, but they’re explosive. If Green and rookie sensation Jabari Smith Jr. can find their rhythm, they could make things interesting against a seasoned team. It’ll be a test of whether the Rockets’ energy and firepower can outlast a more experienced opponent.
Game 7: Team TBD vs. Boston Celtics (2nd Seed)
Time: 1:00 PM ET
Where to Watch: TBD
Stadium: TD Garden, Boston
The Celtics are coming in as one of the most complete teams in the league. Jayson Tatum has taken his game to MVP-level heights, and Jaylen Brown is right there with him. This team is built for playoff success, with defense and scoring both in abundance. The real question is: Can they stay healthy and focused through a deep playoff run? Whoever faces Boston will need to find a way to slow down each of their players’ versatility and the Celtics’ suffocating defense.
Game 8: Team TBD vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (1st Seed)
Time: 1:00 PM ET
Where to Watch: TBD
Stadium: Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Cleveland
The Cleveland Cavaliers are back in the playoffs, and they’re ready to show they can make a serious run. With Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, Ty Jerome, Darius Garland, and all leading the charge, the Cavs have been one of the most balanced teams this season. But it won’t be easy—the competition is fierce. Whoever faces Cleveland will need to handle their defense and offensive firepower if they want to advance.
In conclusion, we are yet to witness the best. So, NBA fans, get ready for a weekend full of passion, drama, and high-level basketball. Be sure to catch all the action live as these teams battle it out for a chance at NBA glory!
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