20.04.2025
New York Knicks 123 - 112 Detroit Pistons
In an exciting Game 1 of the first-round playoff series, the New York Knicks overcame a late third-quarter deficit with a remarkable 21-0 run to defeat the Detroit Pistons 123-112. Despite trailing by eight points and Jalen Brunson seeming hampered by a possible injury, the Knicks rallied as Brunson ignited the comeback, finishing with 34 points. Cam Payne added 11 of his 14 points during the pivotal fourth quarter, while Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby each contributed 23 points. The Knicks' explosive run turned the game around rapidly, with Payne sparking the run with a three-point play, followed by a pivotal 3-pointer to tie the game, with the Knicks taking a decisive lead within minutes. Detroit, in their first playoff appearance since 2019, initially played with poise and held a 98-90 lead, but their NBA-record, 14-game postseason losing streak continued as the Knicks seized control. Tobias Harris and Cade Cunningham made strong contributions for the Pistons, but New York's defense limited them in key moments. Brunson, who battled an ankle injury late in the season, found his stride after halftime, stating the team never considered giving up. Despite the loss, Harris emphasized the importance of learning from playoff experience for returning stronger.
Indiana Pacers 117 - 98 Milwaukee Bucks
In an impressive display, the Indiana Pacers secured a dominant 117-98 win over the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference first-round series. Pascal Siakam was a standout player, contributing 25 points and seven rebounds, while Tyrese Haliburton added 10 points and 12 assists. The game marked Indiana’s first series opener since 2014, with fans providing a lively atmosphere and heckling Milwaukee players. Myles Turner added a critical late-game 3-pointer, concluding a 19-point and four-block performance as six Indiana players scored in double figures. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 36 points and 12 rebounds, but was effectively contained by Indiana's strategic defense. The Bucks, without Damian Lillard, struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 9 of 37. Bucks coach made note of defensive lapses, acknowledging the need for increased urgency ahead of Game 2, where Lillard might return. The game echoed last year’s series outcome when Indiana took the win 4-2, setting a competitive tone for the current showdown.
Los Angeles Lakers 95 - 117 Minnesota Timberwolves
In their playoff opener, the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 117-95, showcasing their depth and impressive shooting. Jaden McDaniels led the Wolves with 25 points, while Naz Reid contributed 23 points, including six 3-pointers, and Anthony Edwards added 22 points with nearly a triple-double performance. Despite Luka Doncic's impressive 37-point debut in a Lakers uniform and a strong 16-point first quarter, the Timberwolves took control with a dominating 38-20 second quarter and maintained their lead throughout. Notably, the Wolves set a franchise playoff record by making 21 out of 42 attempts from beyond the arc. LeBron James, entering his 18th postseason, scored 19 points, but the Lakers struggled with chemistry issues following their recent acquisition of Doncic. Minnesota's experience and poise proved decisive, putting them ahead 1-0 in the series, with Game 2 set for Tuesday in Los Angeles.
Denver Nuggets 112 - 110 LA Clippers
In a thrilling game, the Denver Nuggets secured a 112-110 overtime win against the Los Angeles Clippers, thanks largely to Russell Westbrook’s decisive plays in the clutch moments. Former Nuggets coach Michael Malone and GM Calvin Booth’s sudden dismissals seemed to hang over the team, but Westbrook’s familiarity with the Clippers from his previous seasons proved vital. He hit a critical corner 3-pointer to give Denver a late lead in regulation and disrupted an inbounds pass from James Harden in overtime to help clinch the victory. Westbrook's relentless defense contributed to the Clippers’ 20 turnovers, including seven by Kawhi Leonard. Despite shooting struggles, Westbrook’s aggressive play and key contributions helped the Nuggets overcome a 15-point first-half deficit. Nikola Jokic led Denver with 29 points, while Aaron Gordon and Jamal Murray added 25 and 21 points, respectively. James Harden scored 32 points for the Clippers, who entered the playoffs on a strong run, having won 18 of their last 21 games. The Clippers’ coach, Tyronn Lue, highlighted the turnovers as a critical factor in the loss, whereas interim Nuggets coach David Adelman emphasized the team's persistent effort, particularly during a late first-half comeback that set the stage for their win.