The 2025 NBA playoffs bracket is officially set, marking the beginning of what promises to be one of the most thrilling postseasons in recent memory. With the regular season concluded, the NBA playoffs bracket now features 16 teams—eight from each conference—battling for the Larry O’Brien Trophy. This comprehensive guide breaks down the NBA playoffs bracket, key matchups, schedules, and predictions to help fans navigate the road to the championship.

The NBA playoffs bracket follows a structured format designed to maximize competition and drama. The top six teams from each conference automatically qualify, while seeds 7-10 compete in the Play-In Tournament (April 15-18) to secure the final two spot. The NBA playoffs bracket then proceeds as follows:

• First Round (April 19) – Best-of-seven series
• Conference Semifinals (May 5-6)
• Conference Finals (Late May)
• NBA Finals (June 5)

This year’s NBA playoffs bracket features several powerhouse teams, including the Oklahoma City Thunder (68-14, West No. 1) and Cleveland Cavaliers (64-18, East No. 1), both securing home-court advantage throughout their conference playoffs.

The Eastern Conference side of the NBA playoffs bracket is headlined by:

• (1) Cavaliers vs. (8) Play-In Winner – Cleveland’s dominant defense will be tested against either Orlando, Atlanta, Chicago, or Miami.
• (2) Celtics vs. (7) Play-In Winner – Boston’s deep roster makes them a title favorite, but the Play-In survivor could pose a challenge.
• (3) Knicks vs. (6) Pistons – Detroit won the regular-season series 3-1, setting up a potential upset.
• (4) Pacers vs. (5) Bucks – A rematch of last year’s first round, with Giannis Antetokounmpo looking to dominate.

The NBA playoffs bracket won’t be finalized until the Play-In concludes. Key games include:

• Magic vs. Hawks (April 15) – Winner claims the No. 7 seed.
• Bulls vs. Heat (April 16) – Miami’s playoff experience could be decisive.

The Western Conference NBA playoffs bracket is arguably more competitive:

• (1) Thunder vs. (8) Play-In Winner – OKC’s young core faces a tough opening test against Golden State, Memphis, or Sacramento.
• (2) Rockets vs. (7) Play-In Winner – Houston’s resurgence makes them a dark horse.
• (3) Lakers vs. (6) Timberwolves – LeBron James vs. Anthony Edwards will be must-watch TV.
• (4) Nuggets vs. (5) Clippers – A heavyweight clash between two title contenders.

The West’s Play-In games will shape the NBA playoffs bracket:

• Warriors vs. Grizzlies (April 15) – Golden State seeks to avoid elimination.
• Kings vs. Mavericks (April 16) – Luka Dončić’s playoff hopes hang in the balance.

• Play-In Tournament: April 15-18
• First Round Begins: April 19
• Conference Semifinals: May 5-6
• NBA Finals Start: June 5

Fans should mark their calendars, as the NBA playoffs bracket will evolve rapidly once the action tips off.

Several trends emerge when analyzing the NBA playoffs bracket:

• Celtics vs. Thunder Finals? Boston’s depth vs. OKC’s youth could be the ultimate showdown.
• Potential Upsets: Pistons over Knicks, Clippers over Nuggets.
• Dark Horses: Rockets and Pacers could make deep runs.

Stay updated on the evolving NBA playoffs bracket via:

• ESPN’s Bracket Tracker
• NBA.com’s Official Schedule
• Bleacher Report’s Daily Updates

This year’s NBA playoffs bracket is loaded with star power, compelling storylines, and potential upsets. From the Play-In drama to the Finals, every game will shape the championship race. Whether you’re filling out your own NBA playoffs bracket or just tuning in for the excitement, the 2025 postseason promises unforgettable basketball.

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