NBA Playoffs Begin: Top Teams and Key Matchups Await

ORLANDO, Fla. — The 2025 NBA playoffs officially start this Saturday, launching a highly anticipated postseason that features the best of the league facing off in thrilling matchups. The Boston Celtics, fresh off a strong regular season, have secured the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference, while the Denver Nuggets dominated the West, also clinching the top spot.

This year’s playoffs began with the Magic earning the 7th seed in the East after a decisive win over the Atlanta Hawks, finishing 120-95 in a game that saw them outscore Atlanta 41-22 in the fourth quarter.

Key performances from Orlando’s bench highlighted the victory, with Cole Anthony leading the way with 26 points and a significant contribution from Anthony Black, who added 16 points off the bench. “We executed our game plan excellently and took control in the fourth,” said Magic coach Jamahl Mosley. The Magic’s first-round matchup is against the Celtics, set to begin on Sunday.

After a year of ups and downs, the defending champion Celtics clinched the No. 2 seed, aiming for another title run. “Having home court advantage is crucial for us,” said Jayson Tatum, the team’s star forward. “We take pride in winning at TD Garden, and we’re focused on taking it one game at a time.”

In the Western Conference, the Golden State Warriors and the Memphis Grizzlies will also feature in the first round, beginning with the Warriors facing off against the Rockets. Golden State claimed the No. 7 seed after defeating the Grizzlies 121-116 in the final Play-In game. Star players Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler combined for 74 points in the crucial matchup.

As the playoffs kick off, fans can look forward to intense competition throughout the best-of-seven series format, where the higher seeds will hold home-court advantage. Each series will feature games played in a 2-2-1-1-1 format, adding to the suspense and excitement of each round.

The NBA Finals are set to begin on June 5, where the top teams from each conference will vie for the championship, guided by the hopes of their loyal fans. ESPN and ABC will provide complete coverage of the playoffs, showcasing highlights, analysis, and live updates as the action unfolds.

As the journey to the championship begins, both fans and players alike are gearing up for a thrilling playoff season filled with unexpected twists and gripping moments.