NBA Insiders Weigh In: First Round Predictions for 2025 Playoffs

NEW YORK, April 19, 2025 — As the NBA playoffs kick off, analysts are buzzing about the potential outcomes of this year’s first round. The Houston Rockets face the Golden State Warriors in a matchup that has both teams’ chances hanging in the balance. A panel of ten media members from TNT Sports shared their insights on which teams they expect to advance, including NBA veterans like Shaquille O'Neal and Charles Barkley.

Among the expert panelists providing their outlook are Steve Aschburner, Charles Barkley, Channing Frye, Brendan Haywood, Brian Martin, Shaquille O’Neal, Shaun Powell, John Schuhmann, Dennis Scott, and Kenny Smith. Their consensus indicates a competitive playoff season, particularly concerning the Rockets-Warriors series that could swing in either direction.

The Rockets are known for their youth and athleticism, factors that could create significant challenges for the seasoned Warriors. SHAQ predicts, “Forget about the Rockets being ‘young’ — this is a nasty team in all the right ways. They are way more athletic than the Warriors and defensively armed to make it hard for Stephen Curry.”

While some analysts believe experience will rule the day, others argue the Rockets’ energy and dynamic plays may flip the script. James Herbert doubts the Warriors will face easy competition: “The Rockets’ length and tenacious defense is going to make this a very frustrating series at times for Steph Curry and Co.,” he stated, noting that, while the Warriors have experience, finding baskets during crunch time might be a challenge.

Meanwhile, on the eastern side, the Boston Celtics appear poised to easily handle the Orlando Magic in their first-round matchup. Predictions lean heavily toward the Celtics winning in four or five games. Brad Botkin asserted, “Sweeps are hard in the NBA,” but echoed confidence in the Celtics’ strength. “A couple of these games could be close, but this is a mismatch.”

As analysts weigh in on the Knicks versus Pistons matchup, opinions vary on how tight the series may get. Brad Botkin expects a hard-fought series, stating, “Detroit is going to make life hell for the Knicks,” while Channing Frye believes the Pistons lack the experience to capitalize in a playoff format.

Another matchup that has analysts buzzing is the Pacers against the Bucks. Despite the Bucks’ MVP candidate, Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Pacers have shown resilience and solid game plans, particularly with the potential return of Damian Lillard. “With or without Lillard, Milwaukee doesn’t have the personnel to slow Indiana down,” Herbert commented.

Finally, the series featuring the Lakers and Timberwolves highlights significant matchups, particularly with rising star Anthony Edwards on Minnesota’s side. Analysts like Brad Botkin weighed in on the tight competitiveness, suggesting the Lakers may have the advantage, but not without a fight from the Timberwolves.

As the playoffs progress, fans will eagerly anticipate how these predictions unfold. Will the seasoned veterans overcome the rookie vigor, or will 2025 herald an era of fresh faces dominating the court? With the unpredictable nature of the NBA playoffs, anything can happen.