The 2025 NBA Playoffs have hit the second round, bringing fans a packed weekend of intense matchups. With every series having reached Game 2, the coming days are set to feature some of the most pivotal games of the postseason. Teams like the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers have already built early series leads, while the action out West remains tight. Below you’ll find the complete schedule, TV info, bracket breakdowns, and key dates for the rest of the playoffs.
Games are scheduled daily through mid-May, featuring clashes that could shift the landscape of the 2025 NBA title chase. This article covers the current schedule, potential upsets, broadcast information, and what fans need to know as the race for the championship heats up.
NBA Playoffs Second Round Schedule
The second round of the NBA Playoffs started on May 4, 2025. Remaining games are scheduled through May 20, with every matchup gaining intensity as each series advances. Here are the games for the second round, including dates and TV channels:
- Friday, May 9: Pacers vs Cavaliers (Game 3, ESPN), Nuggets vs Thunder (Game 3, ESPN)
- Saturday, May 10: Knicks vs Celtics (Game 3, ABC), Warriors vs Timberwolves (Game 3, ABC)
- Sunday, May 11: Nuggets vs Thunder (Game 4, ABC), Pacers vs Cavaliers (Game 4, TNT/Max)
- Monday, May 12: Knicks vs Celtics (Game 4, ESPN), Warriors vs Timberwolves (Game 4, ESPN)
Games beyond Game 5 are marked as needed and will be scheduled based on how the current series develop. All times are Eastern, and viewers can also follow the action via Fubo for live streaming.
The schedule is packed, with potential back-to-backs and minimal rest days, heightening the physical and tactical challenge for each team still in the hunt.
Stay tuned for any changes in times or TV slots, as the NBA may adjust the schedule if some series end early or go the distance.
Today’s NBA Playoff Games and Times
Tonight, the 2025 NBA Playoffs feature two critical matchups. The Indiana Pacers, holding a 2-0 lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers, will host Game 3 in Indianapolis at 7:30 p.m. Eastern on ESPN. Later, the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder (tied 1-1) clash at 10 p.m. Eastern, also on ESPN.
This slate of games has major implications for the Eastern and Western Conference races. A win by the Pacers will put the Cavaliers on the brink of elimination, while a victory by the Thunder or Nuggets could shift momentum for the rest of their series.
On Saturday, the New York Knicks (up 2-0) face the Boston Celtics at 3:30 p.m. (ABC), and the Golden State Warriors take on the Minnesota Timberwolves (series tied 1-1) at 8:30 p.m. (ABC).
Live streams are available via Fubo. Games on national TV can be watched on cable or satellite or with a digital antenna for ABC broadcasts.
East Semifinals: Knicks vs Celtics
The New York Knicks have surprised many by jumping out to a 2-0 series lead over the top-seeded Boston Celtics. Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle have led the Knicks’ charge, controlling the tempo and exploiting matchups.
Boston came into the series as favorites not only in the East but also as a top NBA title contender. Two straight home losses have put the Celtics in a difficult position as the series shifts to Madison Square Garden, a place known for its loud and passionate fans.
Games 3 and 4 are crucial for both teams. If the Knicks hold serve at home, they could close out the second-round upset. The Celtics will rely on Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to regain their rhythm and force the series back to Boston for a potential Game 5.
Every possession matters as the Celtics look to avoid a 3-0 hole, a deficit no NBA team has ever recovered from in the playoffs. This series has already delivered high-intensity basketball with physical play and clutch shooting.
East Semifinals: Pacers vs Cavaliers
The Indiana Pacers have taken a surprising 2-0 series lead on the Cleveland Cavaliers. Tyrese Haliburton has played a key role, running the offense and delivering clutch baskets, while the Pacers’ depth has outlasted a Cavaliers squad dependent on Donovan Mitchell’s scoring.
Cleveland, the second seed in the East, faces a must-win Game 3 in Indiana. Another loss would leave them needing to win four straight to advance. The Pacers’ balanced attack and home court advantage could push them another step closer to the Conference Finals.
The Cavaliers need strong contributions from Darius Garland and Evan Mobley to level the playing field. Defensive adjustments are also top of mind for J.B. Bickerstaff after Indiana’s offensive success in the first two games.
Fans can expect a hostile environment in Indianapolis as the Pacers look to close out the series in front of their home crowd. A pivotal Game 4 will quickly follow, ramping up the urgency for both teams.
West Semifinals: Nuggets vs Thunder
The Western Conference series between the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder is tied 1-1 heading into Game 3. Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets bounced back after a tough loss in Game 2, but the Thunder have proven they belong at this level, paced by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s all-around play.
The next games are crucial for momentum. A win in Game 3 gives one team a vital edge and could set the stage for a quick series. The Thunder, seen as slight favorites according to oddsmakers, have the energy and depth to push Denver to the limit.
This matchup features contrasting styles: Denver’s high-post ball movement against Oklahoma City’s fast, perimeter-oriented game. Both coaches, Michael Malone and Mark Daigneault, have adjusted rotations to counter each other’s strengths.
Expect close games and potential overtime as these squads clash for a spot in the conference finals.
West Semifinals: Warriors vs Timberwolves
The Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves are locked at 1-1 as their second-round series heads to Minneapolis. The Timberwolves took Game 2 on the road, powered by Karl-Anthony Towns’ inside scoring and Anthony Edwards’ dynamic offense. Golden State’s veteran core, led by Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, responded with adjustments in their own victory.
As the series shifts, the Timberwolves have home advantage. Their defense will be tested by the Warriors’ trademark three-point shooting and pace. Meanwhile, Golden State must limit turnovers and find more production from their bench.
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Both teams have shown an ability to respond after setbacks, making this series one of the most unpredictable in the second round. Minnesota fans are energized for the possibility of a deep playoff run, while Golden State’s experience and championship pedigree loom large.
Game 3 and 4 outcomes could decide whether we’re headed for a long seven-game battle or an early finish. Every possession in this series has championship implications.
2025 NBA Playoff Bracket
The 2025 NBA Playoff bracket is taking shape, with all four second-round series featuring compelling storylines. In the East, the Knicks face the Celtics while the Pacers challenge the Cavaliers. Out West, the Nuggets battle the Thunder, and the Warriors are up against the Timberwolves.
Winners of each series move to the Conference Finals, scheduled to start between May 18 – 21. Every game in the bracket becomes more consequential as teams chase the final few wins they need to move forward.
| East | West |
|---|---|
| Knicks vs Celtics | Nuggets vs Thunder |
| Pacers vs Cavaliers | Warriors vs Timberwolves |
The bracket format means there’s no reseeding; the winners are locked on a collision course toward the NBA Finals, scheduled for June 5.
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Upsets and Surprises in Round Two
This year’s playoffs have already delivered major upsets, particularly in the Eastern Conference. The Knicks and Pacers have both taken commanding leads against higher-seeded teams, flipping expectations and giving underdogs a serious chance at the finals.
The Thunder’s early competitiveness against the Nuggets adds to the theme of unpredictability, showing that seeding and regular-season performance do not guarantee playoff success. Players have stepped up, and coaches are forced to adapt quickly.
Many fans and analysts anticipated a Celtics vs Nuggets final, but both top teams are now under real pressure. The Pacers and Knicks have capitalized on mismatches and energy, making the most of their opportunities and deep rotations. Every game now feels up for grabs.
These upsets make each night’s outcome harder to predict and add drama for viewers tuning in from around the world.
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NBA Title Odds and Favorites
According to the latest odds at DraftKings, the Oklahoma City Thunder are the title favorites (+125) heading into the second weekend of this round. Despite trailing in their series, the Boston Celtics remain the East’s favorite (+140) to make the Finals, reflecting confidence in their talent and depth.
The Knicks’ surge and Pacers’ upset potential have led to rising odds for both teams, offering more betting intrigue. In the West, pre-series favorites Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors are now facing strong competition from their younger opponents.
Title odds will fluctuate based on every game’s outcome. Unexpected injuries or stunning blowouts can significantly change who sportsbooks see as the frontrunner.
Here’s a quick view for major teams:
- Thunder: +125
- Celtics: +140 (to win East)
- Knicks, Pacers: Rapid risers
Broadcasting and How to Watch
Every game in the NBA Playoffs is nationally televised in the US, primarily on ESPN, ABC, and TNT. Weekend games often get the primetime slot on ABC, while ESPN handles both weeknight and weekend games. TNT and Max broadcast select matchups, especially in the later rounds.
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Fans can live stream action via Fubo, as well as WatchESPN and the NBA app. Cord-cutters can watch ABC games with a digital antenna. National coverage means fans have multiple viewing options, regardless of region.
For local radio and market-specific coverage, check regional sports networks or team websites for streaming and broadcast details.
Check listings for updated broadcast times as some schedules may shift based on the outcomes of early games.
2025 NBA Playoffs Key Dates and Timeline
The second round of the playoffs began on May 4, and the postseason features several important milestones. Here’s a breakdown of critical dates:
- April 15 – 18: Play-In Tournament
- April 19: Playoffs begin
- May 4: Second round begins
- May 12: NBA Draft Lottery
- May 18 – 21 (or May 18 – 19): Conference finals begin
- June 5: NBA Finals begin
Depending how long each series lasts, conference finals might shift by a day or two. The NBA Draft Lottery is set for May 12, drawing eyes from teams already out of the playoffs.
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The key dates are crucial for fans planning watch parties and for teams preparing logistics through late May and into June’s Finals.
NBA Draft Lottery and Upcoming Events
The NBA Draft Lottery will take place on May 12, 2025. This event determines the order for the teams that missed the playoffs and is crucial for rebuilding franchises and for future draft projections.
Following the lottery, all eyes shift to the Conference Finals, scheduled to begin as early as May 18. The NBA Finals are locked in for a June 5 tip-off, with all games broadcast nationally.
NBA fans should also mark their calendars for team awards announcements and official draft preparation events, as the league quickly transitions from playoff action to the offseason after the championship round concludes.
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Potential Game 6 and Game 7 Scenarios
Several second-round matchups are competitive enough that Game 6 or Game 7 showdowns are likely. Here’s what’s scheduled if series go the distance:
- May 15 – 20: Potential Game 6 and 7 contests in each series
- Game 6: Knicks vs Celtics (May 16), Timberwolves vs Warriors (May 18)
- Game 7: Cavaliers vs Pacers, Thunder vs Nuggets, Celtics vs Knicks, Timberwolves vs Warriors (between May 18 – 20)
If necessary, these elimination games will determine who advances and often provide some of the most memorable moments in NBA playoff history. High-pressure, winner-take-all games have been a signature of recent playoff runs.
Fans can expect aggressive strategy changes, high minutes for stars, and intense scrutiny on coaching decisions in these possible deciding contests.
