The second round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs is in full swing, with momentum shifts and superstar performances redefining each series. Here’s a complete breakdown of the key takeaways and what to watch heading into the next slate of games.
Eastern Conference
Cavaliers vs. Pacers
Game 4: Cavaliers at Pacers — Sunday, 8 p.m. ET (TNT)
What We Learned:
Donovan Mitchell reminded everyone why he’s one of the most explosive playoff scorers in the league. His 43-point outburst in Game 3 kept Cleveland alive after falling behind 0-2. Meanwhile, Indiana’s offensive engine, Tyrese Haliburton, has sputtered — finishing Game 3 with just four points on 2-of-8 shooting.
What to Watch:
Can Haliburton rediscover his rhythm before the Pacers let this series slip? The Cavaliers are regaining confidence, and Game 4 may decide whether this becomes a series or a collapse.
— Jamal Collier
Celtics vs. Knicks
Game 3: Celtics 115, Knicks 93
Game 4: Celtics at Knicks — Monday, 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN)
What We Learned:
Boston broke out of its shooting funk with a 20-for-40 night from beyond the arc. Their crisp ball movement left the Knicks scrambling, and a raucous Madison Square Garden crowd was silenced by halftime.
What to Watch:
The Knicks haven’t led at halftime or the third quarter all series. If New York wants to survive, they must attack early, protect the arc, and get easy transition points. Boston’s rhythm is building — and that’s a scary sign.
— Chris Herring
Western Conference
Thunder vs. Nuggets
Game 4: Thunder at Nuggets — Sunday, 3:30 p.m. ET (ABC)
What We Learned:
Denver’s overtime win in Game 3 swung the momentum, thanks in part to stifling defense late. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander struggled, shooting just 7-for-22 and scoring only three points in the fourth and OT.
What to Watch:
SGA must adjust to Denver’s pressure and find better looks. If the Thunder want to regain control, their MVP candidate has to deliver in the clutch.
— Tim MacMahon
Timberwolves vs. Warriors
Game 3: Timberwolves 102, Warriors 97
Game 4: Timberwolves at Warriors — Monday, 10 p.m. ET (ESPN)
What We Learned:
Julius Randle delivered a playoff triple-double, only the second in franchise history, and Anthony Edwards exploded in the second half. Minnesota’s closing execution outshined the Warriors’ star efforts from Butler and Kuminga.
What to Watch:
Without Stephen Curry, Golden State’s margin for error is razor-thin. Unless Buddy Hield, Brandin Podziemski, or the bench steps up, this could be their last game at Chase Center in 2025. Draymond Green fouling out late in Game 3 underscored the pressure they’re facing.
— Ohm Youngmisuk
Final Word
As the chase for the Larry O’Brien Trophy intensifies, every possession now carries weight. With pivotal Game 4s approaching, the complexion of the playoffs could shift dramatically — or some teams might watch their seasons slip away.
