NBA Playoff Recap & Preview: Scores, Standings & Tonight’s Key Matchups

​The 2025 NBA Playoffs are in full swing, delivering thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments. Here's a comprehensive recap of the games from April 20 and 21, with a preview of tonight, April 22's action.

NBA Playoff Recaps – April 20

Eastern Conference

(1) Cleveland Cavaliers 121, (8) Miami Heat 100

The Cavaliers asserted their dominance in Game 1, with a balanced offensive attack and staunch defense. The Heat struggled to keep pace, falling behind early and unable to recover. Cleveland leads the series 1–0.​

(2) Boston Celtics 103, (7) Orlando Magic 86

Derrick White led the Celtics with 30 points, while Payton Pritchard added 19 off the bench. Boston's depth and defensive prowess overwhelmed the young Magic squad. The Celtics hold a 1–0 series lead. ​

Western Conference

(1) Oklahoma City Thunder 131, (8) Memphis Grizzlies 80

The Thunder delivered a historic blowout, marking the largest margin of victory in a Game 1 in NBA history. Their high-octane offense and suffocating defense left the Grizzlies reeling. Oklahoma City leads the series 1–0.

(2) Houston Rockets 85, (7) Golden State Warriors 95

The Warriors' experience was shinning as they secured a road victory in Game 1. Golden State's defense stifled the Rockets, and Steph dropped 31 to give them a 1–0 series advantage.​

Last Night's Recaps – April 21

Eastern Conference

(3) New York Knicks 94, (6) Detroit Pistons 100

Cade Cunningham's 33-point, 12-rebound performance propelled the Pistons to their first playoff win since 2008, snapping a 15-game postseason losing streak. The series is now tied 1–1. 

Western Conference

(4) Denver Nuggets 102, (5) LA Clippers 105

Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 39 to narrowly pull out a victory in Game 2, evening the series at 1–1. His clutch performance in the closing moments sealed the win for Los Angeles. ​

Tonight's Games – April 22

Tonight's matchups promise more excitement as teams battle for supremacy in their respective series.​

Eastern Conference

(5) Milwaukee Bucks @ (4) Indiana Pacers – Game 2, 4:00 PM PT

The Pacers dominated Game 1 with a 117–98 victory. Milwaukee has a lot of hope though with the return of Damian Lillard, who is expected to play tonight after recovering from a blood clot.

Western Conference

(8) Memphis Grizzlies @ (1) Oklahoma City Thunder – Game 2, 4:30 PM PT

Following a historic Game 1 loss, the Grizzlies aim to regroup and challenge the top-seeded Thunder.​

(6) Minnesota Timberwolves @ (3) Los Angeles Lakers – Game 2, 7:00 PM PT

The Timberwolves' dominant performance in Game 1 resulted in a 117–95 win. The Lakers look to bounce back and even the series on their home court.

Pregame Bar Crawl: Las Vegas Edition

As the NBA Playoffs intensify, Las Vegas offers the perfect spot for fans to gather and celebrate. Join a pregame pub crawl featuring exclusive drink specials at top sports bars before a game. Whether you're cheering for the Lakers, Celtics, rooting for the underdogs, or simply enjoying the playoff atmosphere, this bar crawl is the ultimate way to experience the postseason excitement. Stay tuned for upcoming event details and make the most of the NBA Playoffs in the heart of the action!