With the intensity ramping up, the 2025 NBA playoff bracket is taking shape, featuring thrilling matchups and stunning results. Fans everywhere are tracking the evolving road to the championship as teams battle to reach the NBA Finals. Let’s dive into the current bracket, latest updates, and what to watch as the playoffs progress.

Which Teams Remain in the 2025 NBA Playoff Bracket?

Only eight teams are left in the hunt for the coveted NBA title as we move into the second round. The bracket features fierce competition on both sides:

Eastern Conference Semifinals:

• Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Indiana Pacers
• Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks

Western Conference Semifinals:

• Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets
• Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Golden State Warriors

In the East, the Cavaliers and Celtics have maintained top form, but the Knicks and Pacers are proving to be tough opponents. Meanwhile, in the West, the Thunder stand strong as the top seed, but the Golden State Warriors, fresh off a nail-biting win over the Rockets, and the steady Denver Nuggets are making headlines. The Timberwolves are also showing they are not just along for the ride.

For a detailed schedule and game results, check the latest playoff bracket and schedule breakdown by CBS Sports.

Second-Round Matchups: Surprises and Predictions

The 2025 NBA playoff bracket has already delivered its share of upsets and close calls. In the second round, the Indiana Pacers pulled off an early surprise by defeating the top-seeded Cavaliers in Game 1, thanks to balanced scoring and clutch plays by Tyrese Haliburton. The Golden State Warriors, led by Buddy Hield and Stephen Curry, survived a determined Rockets squad and now face the Minnesota Timberwolves in a highly anticipated Western Conference clash.

Expert opinions heavily favor the Cavaliers and Celtics to advance in the East, as seen in ESPN’s in-depth playoff picks. In the West, the Thunder are the title favorites, but the Nuggets and Warriors have the experience to make things interesting. The Timberwolves, riding momentum, could make this one of the most competitive semifinals in years.

Complete 2025 NBA Playoff Schedule

The action is non-stop with games nearly every night. Here’s a look at the upcoming playoff schedule:

• Monday, May 5:
  • Knicks at Celtics, 7:00 p.m. ET
  • Nuggets at Thunder, 9:30 p.m. ET
• Tuesday, May 6:
  • Pacers at Cavaliers, 7:00 p.m. ET
  • Warriors at Timberwolves, 9:30 p.m. ET
• More games to follow as series progress, featuring potential Game 7 thrillers.

Stay up-to-date with the updated NBA playoff bracket and detailed game breakdowns on Bleacher Report.

Key Players to Watch

Playoff games can hinge on star performances. Donovan Mitchell keeps rewriting records for the Cavaliers, while Buddy Hield has emerged as a surprise hero for the Warriors. Tyrese Haliburton’s leadership has energized the Pacers, and the Thunder’s balanced attack makes them a tough out.

Each round introduces new heroes and pivotal moments. With every game, the 2025 NBA playoff bracket grows more unpredictable and exciting.

Conclusion: Stay Tuned for More NBA Playoff Action

The 2025 NBA playoff bracket promises more drama, upsets, and unforgettable plays in the weeks ahead. Whether you’re a casual fan or a diehard supporter, following the updated NBA playoff schedule and key matchups is a must. Check back regularly for results and expert insights as the quest for basketball glory continues!