23.04.2025
Indiana Pacers 123 - 115 Milwaukee Bucks
In a thrilling playoff matchup, the Indiana Pacers, led by Pascal Siakam's 24 points and 11 rebounds and Tyrese Haliburton's 21 points and 12 assists, secured a 123-115 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks to take a 2-0 series lead. Siakam's critical contributions, including a pivotal three-pointer late in the game, helped maintain the Pacers' dominance, as they have now won five of the last six playoff contests against the Bucks. Despite a strong performance from Giannis Antetokounmpo, who posted 34 points, 18 rebounds, and seven assists, Milwaukee struggled to keep pace, with Damian Lillard contributing 14 points in his return from injury. The game featured intense moments, including a scuffle and multiple technical fouls, and was witnessed by notable figures such as WNBA star Caitlin Clark and former Pacers star Lance Stephenson. With Game 3 set in Milwaukee, the Pacers are poised to potentially upset the Bucks with their consistent performances and strategic gameplay.
Oklahoma City Thunder 118 - 99 Memphis Grizzlies
The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a commanding 2-0 lead in their first-round playoff series against the Memphis Grizzlies with a decisive 118-99 victory. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 27 points despite a challenging shooting night, while Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren added 24 and 20 points respectively, with Holmgren also contributing 11 rebounds and five blocks. The Thunder started strong with a 9-0 run and maintained control throughout, setting a team playoff record with 12 first-half 3-pointers. Memphis, struggling offensively, was kept scoreless for notable stretches, including the first 3.5 minutes of the game and nearly four minutes in the fourth quarter. Despite a spirited third-quarter effort from the Grizzlies, who cut the deficit to single digits, Oklahoma City’s consistent team performance and defensive efforts secured the win. The Thunder now have a 6-0 record against Memphis this season, winning each matchup by double digits. Memphis will look to turn the series around at home in Game 3.
Los Angeles Lakers 94 - 85 Minnesota Timberwolves
The Minnesota Timberwolves seized an early lead in their playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers with a dominant 117-95 win in Game 1, showcasing their physical style that the Lakers struggled to counter. Despite Luka Doncic's standout performance for the Lakers, scoring 37 points, the team faltered due to poor shooting and a lack of response to the Timberwolves' aggression. Anthony Edwards shone for Minnesota with 22 points, while Jaden McDaniels led the scoring with 25 points, reflecting the Timberwolves' recent strong form since Julius Randle's return from injury. As history warns of the Lakers' resilience in playoffs, LeBron James emphasized the need for adaptation as the Lakers prepare for Game 2, still confident in overcoming the challenge posed by Minnesota's newfound intensity.