NBA Play-In & Playoffs 2025 Preview – Favourites & Predictions

There’s no rest in the world’s most competitive basketball league – the NBA Play-In Tournament tips off in the early hours of Wednesday (European time).

Here’s your complete tether.bet guide to the 2025 NBA Play-In Tournament and the road ahead.

How Does the NBA Play-In Tournament Work?

Now a staple of the NBA postseason, the Play-In Tournament features teams ranked 7th to 10th in each Conference battling for the final two playoff spots.

The Format:

• 7th seed hosts 8th seed – winner becomes the 7th playoff seed

• 9th seed hosts 10th seed – loser is eliminated, winner plays on

• The loser of 7 vs. 8 plays the winner of 9 vs. 10 – winner takes the 8th seed

Upcoming Fixtures:

Wednesday, 16 April

• Orlando Magic (7) vs Atlanta Hawks (8)

• Golden State Warriors (7) vs Memphis Grizzlies (8)

Thursday, 17 April

• Chicago Bulls (9) vs Miami Heat (10)

• Sacramento Kings (9) vs Dallas Mavericks (10)

Saturday, 19 April

• East 7/8 loser vs East 9/10 winner

• West 7/8 loser vs West 9/10 winner

Top Favourites for the 2025 NBA Playoffs

Boston Celtics

With the best record in the league, elite defence, and superstar leadership from Tatum and Brown, the Celtics are the most complete team entering the postseason.

Oklahoma City Thunder

The No. 1 seed in the West, led by MVP-calibre Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a fearless young core. They play fast, smart, and hungry.

Denver Nuggets

The reigning champions have experience, cohesion, and Nikola Jokic at his best. Flying under the radar could work to their advantage.

New York Knicks

Jalen Brunson has taken a leap, and the Knicks are physical, well-coached, and in top form. A dangerous team no one wants to face.

Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis and Lillard are still a terrifying duo. If they find rhythm, they can beat anyone — but inconsistency remains a concern.

Minnesota Timberwolves

One of the best defensive teams in the league, anchored by Gobert and McDaniels. If Edwards shines, they’re a serious dark horse.

Golden State Warriors

Play-in bound but never to be underestimated. Curry, Thompson, and Green have done it before — and they know how to win when it counts.

Projected First-Round Playoff Fixtures

Eastern Conference

• Boston Celtics vs Orlando/Atlanta winner

• Cleveland Cavaliers vs Play-In winner

• Milwaukee Bucks vs Indiana Pacers

• New York Knicks vs Detroit Pistons

Western Conference

• OKC Thunder vs Play-In winner

• Denver Nuggets vs LA Clippers

• Minnesota Timberwolves vs LA Lakers

• Houston Rockets vs Golden State/Memphis winner

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