The opening round of the 2024–25 NBA Playoffs wrapped up with predictable results for top contenders – but one major upset turned heads across the league.
🔥 Thunder Crush Grizzlies, Cavs Handle Heat
The Oklahoma City Thunder showed why they topped the Western Conference by dominating the Memphis Grizzlies, leaving no doubt about their playoff ambitions. Meanwhile, in the East, the Cleveland Cavaliers had no trouble putting away the Miami Heat, proving they’re ready for a deep postseason run.
☘️ Celtics Outclass Magic Despite Banchero’s Big Night
After the Lakers’ shock loss to Minnesota, the Boston Celtics avoided a similar fate, convincingly beating the Orlando Magic. Even Paolo Banchero’s 36-point performance couldn’t save Orlando as Boston’s depth and ball movement overwhelmed their opponents.
💥 Warriors Surprise Rockets: Curry & Butler Shine
The Golden State Warriors, who entered the playoffs as the 7th seed, delivered the biggest surprise of the night by defeating the Houston Rockets on the road. Stephen Curry led all scorers with 31 points, while Jimmy Butler, the Warriors’ mid-season acquisition, added 25 points, proving to be the game-changer the Bay Area needed.
The series now shifts with momentum in Golden State’s favor, and the Rockets under pressure to respond.
