In a game that will be remembered for years, Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets delivered a historic performance one the league’s all-time best triple doubles with 61 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. Despite his Herculean effort, the Nuggets fell to the Minnesota Timberwolves 140-139 in double overtime. This marks the highest-scoring triple-double in NBA history, surpassing previous records held by Luka Dončić and James Harden. ​

Not to be outdone, Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors was on a heater by dropping 52 points, including 12 three-pointers, in a 134-125 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. This win propelled the Warriors into the fifth seed in the Western Conference.

The 2024-25 NBA regular season approaches its grand finale – the NBA Finals – but before we get there we need the playoff bracket to be populated. And before that, we need seeding. With that, the playoff outlook remains uncertain and difficult to forecast. With no more than 8 teams jockeying for position like it’s a game of musical chairs, let’s dive into NBA Finals bets, the standings, and the chaos that is the current NBA playoff picture.

Eastern Conference Playoff Picture

The Cleveland Cavaliers have been the class of the East all season. While they’ve faltered as of late, no one wants to see the Cavs who boast a league-best 62-16 record and clinching the Central Division title. Not far behind, the Boston Celtics, New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers have also secured their playoff berths

Indiana Pacers The early season struggles are a distant memory for the Pacers and point guard Tyrese Haliburton has been the standout for the Pacers, orchestrating the Pacers offense with precision. Forward Pascal Siakam’s versatility has added depth to the team’s lineup, while center Myles Turner and Andrew Nembhard continues to be a defensive stalwart that spreads the floor with his three-point shooting.

Chicago Bulls The Bulls have faced challenges this season, but center Nikola Vučević has been a consistent force. Averaging 18.5 points and 10 rebounds per game, his presence in the paint has been pivotal paired with an underrated backcourt in Coby White and Josh Giddey. The former just won Eastern Conference Player of the Month and Giddey flirted with a quadruple double and hit a half court three to defeat the Lakers.

Detroit Pistons The Pistons have seen notable performances from their young core. Big guard Cade Cunningham has been instrumental, leading the team with his playmaking abilities and named to his first All-Star Game. Malik Beasley seems to have found a home; making a significant impact with his three-point shooting. Center Jalen Duren’s presence in the paint has provided the Pistons with a solid defensive anchor

However, the true intensity emerges in the play-in tournament race. The Milwaukee Bucks,, Atlanta Hawks, Orlando Magic, Chicago Bulls, and Miami Heat are set to battle for the final two playoff spots. It’s like a reality show where the prize is a date with the top seeds—and possibly an early vacation. ​

Western Conference

Over in the West, the Oklahoma City Thunder have stormed to the top, clinching the No. 1 seed with a 63-12 record, securing the Northwest Division crown and the only team to have officially locked up their playoff spot. The Houston Rockets and Denver Nuggets are a win or two away from a guaranteed slot in the playoffs. ​ Trying to stay-out of the play-in tournament promises fireworks in these last couple weeks, with the Los Angeles Lakers, Memphis Grizzlies, LA Clippers, Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, Sacramento Kings, and Dallas Mavericks vying for the remaining spots. 

Houston Rockets  One of the season’s feel-good stories is the Houston Rockets’ return to the playoffs after a rebuilding period that felt longer than a James Harden step-back three. Sorry. Under the guidance of head coach Ime Udoka, grounded by first-time NBA all-star Alperen Sengun and bolstered by veterans Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks, the Rockets have dedicated themselves to defense and have risen up to the #2 seed; ready to make some noise in the postseason. ​

Los Angeles Clippers When you talk about the Clippers’ 2025 campaign you won’t be blamed if you talk about Kawhi Leonard or the playmaking of James Harden. Even Norman Powell has provided enough scoring punch to have garnered all-star consideration, but the player that is anchoring the team is the exceptional play of Ivica Zubac. The 28 year old Croatian center’s contributions in the paint have been invaluable not just on the offensive side, but his defense is being talked about so much in NBA circles that Zubac could be a serious dark horse candidate for Defensive Player of the Year. ​

Los Angeles Lakers The Lakers have experienced a significant shift with the shocking acquisition of Luka Dončić, who has seamlessly integrated into the team’s framework. LeBron James has embraced a complementary role, allowing Dončić to take center stage. This transition aims to optimize the team’s performance as they gear up for the postseason. 

Golden State Warriors Stephen Curry continues to defy age, recently delivering a 52-point performance that underscores his enduring excellence. Draymond Green’s defensive acumen remains a cornerstone of the Warriors’ strategy, while the addition of Jimmy Butler III has added a new dimension to the team’s dynamics. 

NBA Playoffs 2025

It’s a high-stakes game of musical chairs, and when the music stops, two teams will be left standing—while the others ponder what could have been. ​ Meanwhile, the play-in tournament adds a layer of intrigue and anxiety. Teams hovering around the cutoff are treating each game like it’s Game 7 of the Finals, knowing that a single loss could send them from playoff hopefuls to lottery participants faster than you can say “load management.”​

Mark your calendars: the NBA regular season concludes on April 13, with the play-in tournament kicking off on April 15 and the playoffs commencing on April 19. Fans can expect a rollercoaster ride filled with clutch performances, unexpected heroes, and perhaps a Cinderella story or two. So, grab your popcorn (and maybe a stress ball), because the NBA postseason is about to deliver its annual dose of drama, excitement, and the occasional meme-worthy moment.