The Eastern Conference finals are here in the 2025 NBA playoffs! It’s the New York Knicks facing off against the Indiana Pacers. The series kicks off on Wednesday, with New York hosting Indiana. The Knicks made a thrilling return to this round after knocking out the reigning champions, the Boston Celtics, marking their first Eastern Conference finals appearance since 2000.
The Pacers, meanwhile, are back for the second consecutive year, having eliminated the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers. They last made it to the NBA Finals in 2000, defeating the Knicks in the East finals. The Knicks’ last Eastern Conference title was back in 1999, when they overcame the Pacers in the same round.
As for the Western Conference finals, the matchup is yet to be determined. The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to play the winner of the Game 7 showdown between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Denver Nuggets.
This year’s playoffs have attracted significant interest. A recent survey showed that NBA viewership has surged, with many fans excitedly following their teams. Social media is buzzing with predictions and reactions, showcasing just how passionate fans are. A popular trend is the hashtag #Knickstape, celebrating New York’s playoff run and rallying support.
With thrilling games ahead, here’s the playoff schedule:
Sunday, May 18
Game 7: Thunder vs. Nuggets, 3:30 p.m., ABC
Tuesday, May 20
Game 1: Thunder/Nuggets vs. Timberwolves, 8:30 p.m., ESPN
Wednesday, May 21
Game 1: Knicks vs. Pacers, 8 p.m., TNT
Thursday, May 22
Game 2: Thunder/Nuggets vs. Timberwolves, 8:30 p.m., ESPN
Friday, May 23
Game 2: Knicks vs. Pacers, 8 p.m., TNT
Saturday, May 24
Game 3: Timberwolves vs. Thunder/Nuggets, 8:30 p.m., ABC
Sunday, May 25
Game 3: Pacers vs. Knicks, 8 p.m., TNT
Monday, May 26
Game 4: Timberwolves vs. Thunder/Nuggets, 8:30 p.m., ESPN
Tuesday, May 27
Game 4: Pacers vs. Knicks, 8 p.m., TNT
Wednesday, May 28
*Game 5: Thunder/Nuggets vs. Timberwolves, 8:30 p.m., ESPN
Thursday, May 29
*Game 5: Knicks vs. Pacers, 8 p.m., TNT
Friday, May 30
*Game 6: Timberwolves vs. Thunder/Nuggets, 8:30 p.m., ESPN
Saturday, May 31
*Game 6: Pacers vs. Knicks, 8 p.m., TNT
Sunday, June 1
*Game 7: Thunder/Nuggets vs. Timberwolves, 8 p.m., ESPN
Monday, June 2
*Game 7: Knicks vs. Pacers, 8 p.m., TNT
Each game is a chance for both teams to make history. As the playoffs unfold, fans can expect intense competition and unexpected twists. Stay tuned! You can follow the action on reputable sources like the NBA website for updates and in-depth coverage.