The NBA playoffs tip off today with high-stakes matchups as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder host the Memphis Grizzlies in a Western Conference clash. Four Game 1s headline Saturday’s action, including LeBron James’ Lakers facing Anthony Edwards’ Timberwolves in a marquee:3 p.m. ET ABC showdown.
Eastern Conference
The Cavaliers (No. 1) await the Heat (No. 8) on Sunday, while the Celtics (No. 2) battle the Magic (No. 7). The Knicks (No. 3) open against the upstart Pistons (No. 6) tonight at p.m. ET, and the Pacers (No. 4) host Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Bucks (No. 5) at p.m. ET.
Western Conference
Beyond the Thunder-Grizzlies opener, the Rockets (No. 2) face Steph Curry’s Warriors (No. 7) Sunday night. Nikola Jokić’s Nuggets (No. 4) take on Kawhi Leonard’s Clippers (No. 5) today at:3 p.m. ET. The Lakers-Timberwolves series could hinge on Luka Dončić’s recent blockbuster arrival in Los Angeles.
Key Dates
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April 19: First round begins
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May 12: Draft Lottery
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June 5: NBA Finals start
With lower-seeded teams pulling off first-round upsets in recent years, all eyes remain on potential Cinderella stories as the bracket unfolds.
