2025 Eastern Conference Playoffs First Round: Key Takeaways

The 2025 NBA playoffs are in full swing, and our NBA experts are breaking down the crucial moments from the Eastern Conference first-round games.

Saturday`s action saw the Indiana Pacers dominate the Milwaukee Bucks, leaving Milwaukee uncertain about Damian Lillard`s availability for Game 2. Meanwhile, the New York Knicks secured a Game 1 victory over the Detroit Pistons in front of an energetic home crowd.

Sunday will feature the top seeds in the East. The Cleveland Cavaliers will host the Miami Heat, who made history as the first 10th-seeded team to advance from the play-in tournament. Following that, the reigning champion Boston Celtics will begin their title defense against the Orlando Magic.

Here are the main points from Saturday`s games as we prepare for Sunday`s matchups.

Knicks vs. Pistons

New York Knicks Lead 1-0

Game 1: Knicks 123, Pistons 112

What We Learned:

The Knicks` playoff experience proved to be a significant factor against the younger Pistons. Detroit`s inexperience was evident at the start of the fourth quarter when they committed two quick violations, leading to a momentum-shifting 21-0 run by New York.

Despite playing well for three quarters, including effectively defending Jalen Brunson, the Pistons fell apart in the fourth. New York outscored Detroit 40-21 in the final quarter, demonstrating their veteran composure.

Game 2: Pistons at Knicks (Monday, 7:30 p.m. ET, TNT)

What to Watch:

Jalen Brunson`s health is a key concern. After a slow start and an apparent ankle issue, Brunson changed shoes and became dominant in the fourth quarter. Coach Tom Thibodeau humorously suggested Brunson found his “cape” in the fourth quarter, highlighting his resilience.

Pacers vs. Bucks

Indiana Pacers Lead 1-0

Game 1: Pacers 117, Bucks 98

What We Learned:

The Pacers` superior depth was crucial in their victory over the Bucks, who heavily rely on Giannis Antetokounmpo. While Antetokounmpo had a strong individual performance with 36 points and 12 rebounds, the Pacers effectively limited the rest of the Bucks` team to just 34% shooting.

Indiana`s ball movement was a key differentiator, with 28 assists compared to Milwaukee`s 15. This led to balanced scoring for the Pacers, with five players scoring in double figures, led by Pascal Siakam`s 25 points.

Game 2: Bucks at Pacers (Tuesday, 7 p.m. ET, NBA TV)

What to Watch:

Damian Lillard`s potential return for Game 2 is a major storyline. Sidelined since March 18 with a blood clot, Lillard has returned to practice. The Bucks could greatly benefit from his scoring ability after their supporting cast struggled in Game 1.

Cavaliers vs. Heat

Cavaliers vs. Heat

Game 1: Heat at Cavaliers (Sunday, 7 p.m. ET, TNT)

One Thing to Watch for Cavaliers:

The Cavaliers` 3-point shooting consistency is crucial. After leading the league in 3-point percentage before March 11, they dropped to 19th. The performance of Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland from beyond the arc will be a key factor in their success.

One Thing to Watch for Heat:

Can the Heat continue their improbable playoff run? After becoming the first 10th seed to advance from the play-in, they face a tougher challenge without Jimmy Butler III. Avoiding fourth-quarter collapses will be essential for Miami to compete in this series.

Celtics vs. Magic

Boston Celtics vs. Orlando Magic

Game 1: Magic at Celtics (Sunday, 3:30 p.m. ET, ABC)

One Thing to Watch for Celtics:

Jaylen Brown`s knee injury is a primary concern for the Celtics. While Boston should handle Orlando even without Brown at his best, his health is vital for their deeper playoff aspirations and title defense. His condition after rest will be closely monitored.

One Thing to Watch for Magic:

Can Orlando exploit Jaylen Brown`s knee issue? The Magic`s strong defense could pressure Jayson Tatum and the Celtics, potentially turning the series into a slower-paced, physical battle that favors Orlando`s style of play.