The 2025 NBA playoffs have delivered an exciting first round, and the drama continues as the Western Conference prepares for a thrilling conclusion. The Denver Nuggets have outlasted the LA Clippers, winning Game 7 with a commanding score of 120-101, while the Houston Rockets are set to face the Golden State Warriors in a decisive Game 7 on Sunday, May 4, 2025.
In a remarkable display of teamwork, the Nuggets showcased their depth and resilience in their Game 7 victory. They led by as many as 31 points and dominated the second and third quarters, outscoring the Clippers 72 to 40. This impressive performance made history as Denver became the first team to outscore an opponent by 15-plus points in multiple quarters in a Game 7, according to ESPN Research.
Aaron Gordon led the Nuggets with 22 points, while Christian Braun contributed 21 points to the team's total. The Nuggets made history by having at least six players score 15 points in a Game 7, a feat never accomplished before. In stark contrast, the Clippers struggled offensively, with only Kawhi Leonard managing to score over 15 points, finishing the game with 22 points. James Harden had a rough outing, scoring just 7 points on 2-for-8 shooting, marking his fourth consecutive Game 7 where he has shot under 30%, tying him with Dan Majerle, Greg Kite, and Rod Hundley for the longest streak in NBA postseason history.
As the Nuggets celebrate their advancement, attention turns to the upcoming Game 7 between the Rockets and Warriors, which promises to be a nail-biter. The Rockets forced a decisive Game 7 after a strong performance in Game 6, defeating the Warriors 115-107. Fred VanVleet shone in this critical matchup, scoring 29 points, including a pivotal four-point play to kick off the fourth quarter. Alperen Sengun also played a vital role, contributing 21 points and 14 rebounds.
Houston's success in Game 6 can be attributed to their effective use of jumbo lineups, featuring Sengun and Steven Adams, and a heavy dose of zone defense that stifled Golden State's rhythm. The Rockets opened the fourth quarter with a 20-5 run, showcasing their defensive prowess and capitalizing on the Warriors' struggles, who started the quarter shooting just 1-of-16 from the field and 0-of-10 from beyond the arc.
As the Rockets prepare to host the Warriors, both teams are aware of the stakes involved. The Warriors, led by stars Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler III, and Draymond Green, are looking to leverage their playoff experience. NBA analysts are leaning towards the Warriors, citing their veteran presence as crucial in high-pressure situations. Tom Haberstroh confidently predicts a Warriors victory, stating, "I have belief in Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green figuring out the two-big lineup, which has given the team fits this series." Morten Stig Jensen echoes this sentiment, placing his trust in Golden State's experience to carry them through.
Meanwhile, the Eastern Conference is also heating up, as the Cleveland Cavaliers are set to face off against the Indiana Pacers in the second round. Analysts are favoring the Cavaliers, with predictions ranging from a five to six-game series victory. Dan Devine believes that Cleveland's high-end talent will prove too much for Indiana, despite concerns about Darius Garland's toe injury. Haberstroh and Jensen also predict a similar outcome, citing the Cavaliers' superior depth and talent.
As for the Boston Celtics, they're gearing up for their matchup against the New York Knicks. The Celtics are viewed as heavy favorites, having dominated the Knicks throughout the regular season with a 10-0 record against them, including a strong performance from Jalen Brunson. Devine predicts a Celtics win in five games, while Rohrbach and Jensen suggest a six-game series, emphasizing the Knicks' lack of depth as a critical factor.
Returning to the Western Conference, the Nuggets are now preparing for their next challenge against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the semifinals, with Game 1 set to tip off on Monday, May 5, 2025. The Nuggets have split their season series against the Thunder 2-2, making this matchup highly anticipated. Denver will look to leverage their momentum from the Game 7 victory, while the Thunder will aim to capitalize on their status as the top seed.
In an emotional moment for the NBA, the league also bids farewell to a coaching legend. Gregg Popovich, the all-time leader in coaching wins, stepped down as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs on May 2, 2025, after an unparalleled 29-year tenure. Popovich's contributions to the game are immeasurable, and he transitions to a new role as Team President, leaving behind a legacy that includes five NBA championships and a Hall of Fame induction in 2023.
As the playoffs continue, fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting the outcomes of these pivotal matchups. Will the Warriors continue their playoff dominance, or will the Rockets pull off a stunning upset? Can the Cavaliers and Celtics solidify their paths to the Eastern Conference finals? With so much at stake, the excitement of the NBA playoffs is only just beginning.
