The NBA Playoffs 2025 are underway and the best teams and players are gunning for the championship. As the playoffs roll on basketball fans are seeing big games, great performances and the high stakes that make the NBA Playoffs must see TV. In this post we’ll break down the 2025 NBA Playoffs highlights, top performances and what to expect moving forward.
NBA Playoffs 2025: The Matchups
The NBA Playoffs always bring big games and 2025 is no exception. This season has seen some surprises and great performances from veterans and rookies alike. The first round has set the table for what should be a wild postseason.

- Miami Heat vs. Cleveland Cavaliers: Heat with Jimmy Butler are looking to make a deep run. But the Cavs are tough with their mix of young talent and vets. They’re up 2-0, Miami needs to regroup if they’re coming back.
- Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets: Warriors one of the most successful teams in recent years are facing the up and coming Rockets. With Jimmy Butler out due to injury in the last game the Warriors are in a tough spot as the Rockets are taking full advantage.
- Orlando Magic vs. Boston Celtics: This series has been the most competitive. Celtics won 109-100 in Game 2 to tie the series 1-1. Magic’s young stars are showing promise but the Celtics experience might be the key in the long run.
Top Performances: Playoff Stars Shine
The NBA Playoffs bring out the best in players and several have delivered performances for the ages. Here are a few to watch:
- Jimmy Butler (Miami Heat): Butler has been clutch all series and even with an injury he’s the leader on the court. He can carry the Heat in big moments making him the most valuable player of the postseason.
- LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers): At 40 LeBron is still defying age, leading the Lakers in scoring and playmaking. His ability to turn it up in the playoffs has been his hallmark and this year is no exception.
- Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks): Giannis is on a mission this postseason to add another MVP caliber performance to his already impressive resume. He’s dominating on both ends of the floor and no one wants to face him in the playoffs.
What’s Next for the NBA Playoffs?
As the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs rolls on, we’re all waiting to see which teams will make it to the next round. With injuries already affecting key players, who knows who will come out on top? But we can expect great matchups, upsets and highlight reel plays as the chase for the championship continues.
2025 NBA Playoffs FAQ’s
1. When do the 2025 NBA Playoffs end?
The 2025 NBA Playoffs end in mid-June, with the NBA Finals in the first two weeks of June. Dates are TBD based on how long each series goes.
2. Who’s going to win the 2025 NBA Championship?
As of now, the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers and Milwaukee Bucks are the favorites to win it all with their stacked rosters and playoff experience.
3. How many teams are in the NBA Playoffs?
16 teams: 8 from the East and 8 from the West. They play a best of 7 series to determine the conference champions who then play in the NBA Finals.
4. Can the Miami Heat come back in the playoffs?
While the Heat are up against it with Jimmy Butler’s injury, they can still come back. With team chemistry and other key players stepping up, they can get past the first round if they adjust.
5. Where can I watch the NBA Playoffs?
The NBA Playoffs are on ABC, ESPN, TNT and NBA TV. You can also stream on NBA League Pass and online streaming services that carry sports channels.