Who Faces the Most Pressure in Game 4?
Jalen Brunson is feeling the weight of New York’s expectations.
While the Celtics’ stars — Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown — have struggled from deep, Boston’s depth and defense keep them stable. The Knicks, meanwhile, need Brunson to break out.
He’s shooting just 38% from the field in the series and getting to the line far less than usual. Factor in the Celtics’ defensive clamp from Derrick White and Jrue Holiday, and the Knicks’ offense looks restricted.
Add Mitchell Robinson’s 7-of-23 free throw mark, and the Celtics’ hack strategy has worked. The Knicks are averaging just 95 points per game on 42% shooting — all eyes are now on Brunson to lift them.
— Brian Windhorst
What Takes This Series to a Game 7?
Nikola Jokic must bounce back.
The MVP front-runner is in a rare slump — 33.3% shooting over three straight games, his worst-ever such stretch with 15+ attempts. He’s also recording more turnovers than assists, a shocking dip in rhythm.
Oklahoma City’s defense deserves credit, but for Denver to force a Game 7, Jokic needs to find his flow again. If he does in Game 4 or 5, this series resets.
— Tim MacMahon
How Can the Warriors Expose Minnesota — Even Without Curry?
Turnovers are Minnesota’s weak spot.
Despite being top-10 on both ends, the Timberwolves have lost the turnover battle twice in three games. In Game 3 alone, they gave it away 21 times.
With Stephen Curry still sidelined, the Warriors must lean on defense. Draymond Green, Gary Payton II, Brandin Podziemski, and Jonathan Kuminga must force mistakes and turn them into points. That’s the only way Golden State buys time until Curry’s hopeful return.
— Dave McMenamin
What Can Spark a Cavaliers Comeback?
Team offense — not just Donovan Mitchell.
The Cavs were the No. 1 offense in the league, but now they’re a one-man show. Mitchell has been sensational, but Sunday’s Game 4 blowout highlighted the issue: 39 first-half points, 14 turnovers, and just 3 assists.
Even worse, Mitchell left at halftime with an ankle injury. Without more from the supporting cast and a return to ball movement, Cleveland’s playoff run may be over.
— Jamal Collier
What’s Been the Biggest Surprise?
The collapse of Oklahoma City, Boston, and Cleveland.
These were the most dominant teams entering Round 2 — all posting +9 point differentials or better. Now? A combined 4–7 record in the conference semis.
It’s a stark reminder: the playoffs aren’t the regular season. Health, matchups, and mental pressure shift everything.
— Zach Kram
Finals Prediction: Who’s Going All the Way?
Despite trailing in their series, Boston and Oklahoma City still look like the most complete teams.
The Celtics’ Game 3 dominance reminded everyone of their defensive ceiling and matchup control. If their threes start falling, the East is theirs.
In the West, the Thunder still have home court and a scheme built to counter Minnesota’s strengths. It won’t be easy, but they remain the best bet to come out of the West.
Expect both to survive — but not without a fight.
