Full 2025 NBA Playoffs Bracket: Round 1 TV Schedule & Predictions

Kenji Nakamura

5 min read

Post on May 06, 2025

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The 2025 NBA Playoffs are almost here! Basketball fans are buzzing with anticipation for the first round matchups, and we've got you covered with the ultimate guide. This article details the full 2025 NBA Playoffs bracket for Round 1, provides a handy TV schedule, and offers insightful predictions for each series. Get ready for some intense basketball action!

Complete 2025 NBA Playoffs Round 1 Bracket

This section details the anticipated matchups for the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs. Remember, these are projected matchups based on the regular season standings and are subject to change.

Eastern Conference Matchups

The Eastern Conference is shaping up to be a battleground. Here's a look at the projected first-round NBA Playoffs bracket matchups:

• (1) Milwaukee Bucks vs. (8) Orlando Magic: The Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, are heavy favorites, but the young and improving Magic could provide a surprising challenge. Key players to watch: Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks), Paolo Banchero (Magic).

• (2) Boston Celtics vs. (7) Washington Wizards: A classic Eastern Conference rivalry! The Celtics' depth and experience will likely prevail, but the Wizards could make it a competitive series. Key players to watch: Jayson Tatum (Celtics), Bradley Beal (Wizards).

• (3) Philadelphia 76ers vs. (6) Miami Heat: This series has the potential to be a classic. Both teams are experienced playoff contenders with star power. Key players to watch: Joel Embiid (76ers), Jimmy Butler (Heat).

• (4) Cleveland Cavaliers vs. (5) New York Knicks: This matchup promises intense defense and physical play. The outcome depends on which team can maintain consistency and limit turnovers. Key players to watch: Donovan Mitchell (Cavaliers), Jalen Brunson (Knicks).

Western Conference Matchups

The Western Conference is always unpredictable. Here's a look at the projected first-round Playoff matchups:

• (1) Denver Nuggets vs. (8) Minnesota Timberwolves: The Nuggets, led by Nikola Jokic, are the top seed and strong favorites. However, the Timberwolves' offensive firepower could test Denver's defense. Key players to watch: Nikola Jokic (Nuggets), Karl-Anthony Towns (Timberwolves).

• (2) Phoenix Suns vs. (7) Sacramento Kings: This series could be an offensive shootout. Both teams have high-scoring players and potent offenses. Key players to watch: Kevin Durant (Suns), De'Aaron Fox (Kings).

• (3) Memphis Grizzlies vs. (6) Dallas Mavericks: This series will likely hinge on defense and rebounding. The Grizzlies' physicality will be a challenge for the Mavericks. Key players to watch: Ja Morant (Grizzlies), Luka Dončić (Mavericks).

• (4) Golden State Warriors vs. (5) Los Angeles Clippers: A highly anticipated clash of Western Conference rivals. The Warriors' experience and championship pedigree give them an edge, but the Clippers' talent and depth could make it a close series. Key players to watch: Stephen Curry (Warriors), Kawhi Leonard (Clippers).

2025 NBA Playoffs Round 1 TV Schedule

Knowing when and where to watch the games is crucial! This NBA Playoffs TV schedule is subject to change, so always check your local listings.

Network Coverage

The games will be broadcast across various networks, including ESPN, TNT, ABC, and NBA TV.

Game Dates and Times

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Bold Predictions for Round 1

Predicting the playoffs is always challenging, but here are our bold predictions for the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs.

Eastern Conference Predictions

• Bucks in 5: The Bucks' overall talent and experience should see them through.

• Celtics in 6: The Celtics will prevail but expect a hard-fought series from Washington.

• 76ers in 7: This will be a closely contested battle, with Philadelphia edging out Miami in a decisive Game 7.

• Cavaliers in 6: Cleveland's defensive prowess and Mitchell's scoring ability will lead them to victory.

Western Conference Predictions

• Nuggets in 4: The Nuggets' dominance will be too much for the Timberwolves to handle.

• Suns in 6: Durant and the Suns’ firepower will prevail despite the Kings' offensive threat.

• Grizzlies in 5: Memphis' physicality and strong defense will overwhelm the Mavericks.

• Warriors in 7: This series is a toss-up, but the Warriors’ experience and clutch gene will lead them to victory in a thrilling Game 7.

Conclusion

The 2025 NBA Playoffs Round 1 promises thrilling matchups, intense competition, and plenty of surprises. From the projected NBA Playoffs bracket to the NBA Playoffs TV schedule and our bold predictions, we've covered it all. Remember to check back for updates as the postseason unfolds!

Don't miss a second of the thrilling 2025 NBA Playoffs! Check back regularly for updated brackets, schedules, and predictions as the postseason unfolds. Stay tuned for our coverage of subsequent rounds! Bookmark this page for your complete 2025 NBA Playoffs resource.