The 2025 NBA Playoffs tipped off Saturday with a full slate of four games, delivering high drama, historic performances, and a stinging blow to the Los Angeles Lakers at home.
In the primetime matchup, the Lakers suffered a tough 117-95 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of their Western Conference first-round series. The Timberwolves jumped out to a double-digit halftime lead and never looked back, using a blistering 11-0 run early in the third quarter to stretch the advantage to 22 points. Anthony Edwards led the charge with 22 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists, while Jaden McDaniels poured in a team-high 25 points and nine boards.
Minnesota set a franchise playoff record with 21 made three-pointers, including a dagger from Edwards that gave them a 27-point cushion midway through the third. The Lakers attempted a rally, sparked by Luka Dončić, who scored a game-high 37 points and hit a halfcourt buzzer-beater to cut the deficit to 94-78 at the end of the third quarter. However, the Timberwolves responded with a 12-2 burst in the fourth to seal the win. LeBron James added 19 points in the loss.
“I’m not sure physically we were ready,” said Lakers coach JJ Redick. “That stretch from the start of the second to midway through the third—losing it by 34—that’s a blowout.”
Game 2 is set for Tuesday, April 22, in Los Angeles.
In New York, the Knicks delivered a stunning comeback to defeat the Detroit Pistons 123-112 at Madison Square Garden. Trailing by 11 in the fourth quarter, the Knicks unleashed a 21-0 run to take control. Jalen Brunson led all scorers with 34 points, overcoming a rough shooting start and a late-game ankle scare. Detroit’s playoff woes continued, as they extended their record postseason losing streak to 14 games. Game 2 tips off Monday.
The Denver Nuggets also held off the Los Angeles Clippers in a tense 112-110 overtime victory. After surrendering a 15-point lead in the first half, Denver regained momentum and edged ahead in the extra frame thanks to a clutch three-pointer by Christian Braun. Strong late-game defense from Russell Westbrook helped seal the win for the reigning champions.
In the day’s opener, the Indiana Pacers made a statement with a commanding 117-98 win over the Milwaukee Bucks. Indiana built a 24-point lead by halftime and maintained control throughout. Pascal Siakam led the way with 25 points and seven rebounds. Giannis Antetokounmpo paced Milwaukee with 36 points and 12 rebounds, but the Bucks were without star guard Damian Lillard, who missed the game due to a calf issue.
Game 2 of the Pacers-Bucks series is scheduled for Monday in Milwaukee.
