NBA Playoffs: What You Need to Know Right Now

The NBA Playoffs are here and the excitement is off the charts. If you’re wondering which teams made it, when the next game airs, or who’s likely to lift the trophy, you’ve come to the right spot.

Who Made the Cut?

This year’s eight Western Conference squads include the Lakers, Warriors, Nuggets and Suns, while the Eastern side features the Celtics, Heat, Bucks and Knicks. All of them earned their spots by grinding through a 82‑game regular season, so expect tight battles from day one.

When Are the Games?

The first round kicks off on Thursday at 7 PM ET and runs three to four nights a week. Each series is best‑of‑seven, meaning a team needs four wins to move forward. Keep an eye on the NBA calendar – games shift slightly for holidays and prime‑time slots.

Want to never miss a game? Most networks stream live on their apps, and services like NBA League Pass let you watch any matchup on your phone or tablet. A quick search for "NBA Playoffs streaming" will point you to the right platform for your region.

If you’re into betting, look at team form, injury reports and home‑court advantage. Historically, teams with a 2‑0 lead in a series win about 80 % of the time. That’s a solid clue when you place your first wager.

Key players to watch: LeBron James is still pushing for another ring, Giannis Antetokounmpo brings relentless power, and Nikola Jokić keeps pulling off impossible passes. Their performances often decide whether a series swings in their favor.

Don’t forget the underdogs. In recent years, lower‑seed teams have knocked out top contenders by playing aggressive defense and capitalizing on fast breaks. Keep an eye on the Celtics‑Knicks matchup – it could flip the script.

For fans who love the behind‑the‑scenes action, social media is a goldmine. Follow official NBA accounts for live highlights, player interviews, and quick stats updates right after each game.

Finally, set up alerts on your phone so you get a reminder an hour before tip‑off. That way you won’t miss the buzzer‑beater that could seal a series.

The NBA Playoffs are all about drama, skill and surprise twists. Whether you’re cheering for a favorite team or just love great basketball, this guide gives you the basics to stay in the loop and enjoy every moment.