2025 NBA Conference Finals: Picks and Preview

The 2025 NBA Conference Playoffs are nearing their thrilling conclusion, paving the way for the much-anticipated NBA Conference Finals. This exciting matchup is set to unfold from May 21, 2025, to June 3, 2025, featuring the best teams from each conference battling for a spot in the NBA Finals. Only four teams remain in the competition, with two representing the Western Conference and two from the Eastern Conference. The teams competing in the 2025 NBA Conference Finals are Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves from the Western Conference, and New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers from the Eastern Conference, promising an intense battle for dominance. With the stakes higher than ever, this season is gearing up to deliver a fierce showdown between these four powerhouse clubs. To amplify the excitement, we will explore the historical matchups between these teams, analyze their strengths and weaknesses, and provide insights into the latest odds and predictions. Additionally, we will discuss key players who could shape the outcome of the finals and examine how tactical adjustments might influence the course of these high-stakes encounters. As the countdown to tip-off begins, fans can brace themselves for a series of electrifying clashes that will decide which teams advance to the grand finale. Get all the exclusive details on the upcoming NBA matches here! Stay connected and stay informed about all the important details.

Oklahoma City Thunder had an exceptional run in the 2025 NBA Conference Playoffs, securing their spot in the Western Conference Finals with dominant performances. The Conference Semifinals of the Oklahoma City Thunder was nothing short for any enthralling moments, where the team defeated the Denver Nuggets with a dominant role. The Thunder with their exotic defense and high-scoring offense, they are entering this battle with high determinations. The Minnesota Timberwolves, on the other hand, dominated the 2025 NBA Conference Playoffs, defeating the Warriors 4-1 in the first round and the Lakers 4-1 in the semifinals. Led by Anthony Edwards’ scoring and Rudy Gobert’s defensive presence, they now face top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals, aiming for their first-ever NBA Finals appearance.

Meantime, the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers are entering this 2025 NBA Conference Finals from the Eastern Conference. The New York Knicks had a solid run in the 2025 NBA Conference Playoffs. They beat the Detroit Pistons 4-2 in the first round and then won against the Boston Celtics 4-2 in the semifinals, finishing with a dominant 119-81 victory in Game 6 at Madison Square Garden. Now, they face the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals, marking their first time at this stage since 2000. Led by Jalen Brunson, the Knicks are looking to secure their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999. This matchup is set to be intense, and fans are eagerly waiting to see if they can go all the way. The Indiana Pacers, on the other hand, had a great run in the 2025 NBA Conference Playoffs. They beat the Milwaukee Bucks 4-1 in the first round, showing strong teamwork and solid defense. In the semifinals, they took down the Cleveland Cavaliers 4-1, finishing with a 114-105 win in Game 5. Now, they’re set to face the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals, marking their second straight appearance at this stage. With Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam leading the team, the Pacers are determined to make it to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2000.

2025 NBA Conference Finals: Schedule

Western Conference Finals:

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Minnesota Timberwolves

Game 1: May 21, 2025 – Paycom Center, Oklahoma City

Game 2: May 23, 2025 – Paycom Center, Oklahoma City

Game 3: May 25, 2025 – Target Center, Minneapolis

Game 4: May 27, 2025 – Target Center, Minneapolis

Game 5 (if needed): May 29, 2025 – Paycom Center, Oklahoma City

Game 6 (if needed): May 31, 2025 – Target Center, Minneapolis

Game 7 (if needed): June 2, 2025 – Paycom Center, Oklahoma City

Eastern Conference Finals:

New York Knicks vs. Indiana Pacers

Game 1: May 22, 2025 – Madison Square Garden, New York

Game 2: May 24, 2025 – Madison Square Garden, New York

Game 3: May 26, 2025 – Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis

Game 4: May 28, 2025 – Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis

Game 5 (if needed): May 30, 2025 – Madison Square Garden, New York

Game 6 (if needed): June 1, 2025 – Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis

Game 7 (if needed): June 3, 2025 – Madison Square Garden, New York

Predictions: 

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Minnesota Timberwolves

The Oklahoma City Thunder will face the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Conference Finals, set to take place on May 21, 2025, at the Paycom Center. The Thunder had a great season, finishing in the top spot in the Eastern Conference, while the Timberwolves ended in sixth place. Both teams have fought hard throughout the season, making it this far, which is impressive. Now, they are ready for this crucial battle. Last time they met, the Timberwolves won 131-128, but this time, the Thunder are expected to turn things in their favor. The Thunder have been strong all season, and their recent form is excellent. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads with 32.7 PPG, showing elite scoring and playmaking. Jalen Williams contributes 21.6 PPG, while Chet Holmgren secures the defense with 15.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG, and 2.2 BPG. Isaiah Hartenstein strengthens the inside, averaging 10.7 RPG, which gives the Thunder a solid chance, especially with the home advantage.

The Minnesota Timberwolves, however, are equally talented and bring strong potential to the game. Anthony Edwards is their top scorer with 27.6 PPG, backed by Julius Randle’s 18.7 PPG and 7.1 RPG. Rudy Gobert is a defensive force with 12.0 PPG, 10.9 RPG, and 1.4 BPG, while Naz Reid adds depth with 14.2 PPG and 6.0 RPG. The Timberwolves will put up a tough fight against the Thunder, making this an exciting clash. However, with the Thunder’s solid squad, recent form, and home court advantage, they are expected to take the win with a decent scoreline. As both teams step onto the court, fans can expect a thrilling Western Conference Finals showdown.

New York Knicks vs. Indiana Pacers

The New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers will face each other in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs Conference Finals, which will take place at Madison Square Garden on May 21, 2025. Both teams finished the 2025 NBA Season in third and fourth place in the Eastern Conference, proving they are closely matched competitors. Check out the 2024-25 NBA Standings to get informed on the status of your favourite teams. This game will test whether they truly stand at an equal level or if one team will take charge with an outstanding performance. Their last meeting resulted in a 128-115 win for the Knicks over the Pacers, an impressive victory. The New York Knicks have had a strong season, finishing third in the Eastern Conference with a 51-31 record. Their offense ranks fifth in the league, backed by solid defense. Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns have been essential players, leading the team to important wins. In the playoffs, they defeated the Detroit Pistons 4-2 in the first round and won against the Boston Celtics 4-2 in the semifinals, ending with a dominant 119-81 victory in Game 6. Now, they are preparing to face the Indiana Pacers, hoping to secure a spot in the NBA Finals.

The Indiana Pacers, however, are just as competitive and ready for a tough fight. They finished fourth in the Eastern Conference with a 50-32 record and have shown strong offensive and defensive abilities. Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam have played key roles in securing important wins. In the playoffs, they defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 4-1 in the first round and then won against the Cleveland Cavaliers 4-1 in the semifinals, closing the series with a 114-105 win in Game 5. Now, they are set to battle the Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals for the second year in a row, fighting for a spot in the NBA Finals. Both teams are expected to deliver a hard-fought contest, but the New York Knicks hold a slight advantage based on their recent performances. However, the Pacers’ strong defense and teamwork make this matchup unpredictable and exciting. Fans can expect a thrilling series as these two competitive teams go head-to-head for a place in the NBA Finals.