Context:

The 2025 NBA Playoffs feature intense matchups with the Oklahoma City Thunder and Cleveland Cavaliers leading their respective conferences after dominating regular seasons. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Thunder is a key player to watch, being a top contender for the MVP award due to his outstanding performance. The Cavaliers, supported by a strong lineup including Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland, have made a significant leap to the top of the Eastern Conference. While these teams are dominant, the Boston Celtics remain crucial contenders, defending their title and adding intrigue to the playoffs. Fans can watch the games on multiple channels and streaming services, with the NBA Finals exclusively airing on ABC, and coverage also available on SiriusXM for radio listeners.

Dive Deeper:

• The Oklahoma City Thunder have secured the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander expected to lead the team's offensive efforts and contending strongly for the MVP title.

• Cleveland Cavaliers have surged to the top of the Eastern Conference, marking a remarkable improvement from the previous season, backed by a formidable roster including Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen.

• The playoff bracket is competitive with other strong teams like the Boston Celtics, who are defending their championship and cannot be overlooked as potential NBA Finals contenders.

• NBA Playoff games will be broadcast on major U.S. networks such as ABC, ESPN, NBA TV, and TNT, with the Finals exclusively on ABC. Fans in Canada can access games via Sportsnet and TSN, with streaming options available on Sling and other platforms.

• The Eastern Conference semifinals see the Cavaliers trailing the Pacers 2-1, while the Celtics are also behind the Knicks 2-0, indicating tough series ahead. In the Western Conference, the Thunder are down 2-1 against the Nuggets, and the Timberwolves and Warriors are tied at 1-1.

• The first round of the playoffs begins on April 19, following the Play-In Tournament from April 15-18, with the Finals scheduled to start on June 5. Fans can listen to live broadcasts of the games on SiriusXM.

• Jordan Greer, associated with The Sporting News since 2015, provides coverage of the playoffs, reflecting his experience and background in sports journalism, including his past work with the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

• Are the Cavaliers and Thunder destined to meet in the NBA Finals?

• Oklahoma City was the most impressive team during the 2024-25 regular season, building a massive lead in the Western Conference standings and cruising to the No. 1 seed. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander established himself as the frontrunner for the MVP award and is expected to carry the offensive load for the Thunder in the NBA Playoffs.

• WATCH:NBA Playoff games LIVE on Sling