2025 NBA Playoffs: Western Conference First-Round Explodes with Drama and Surprises
The 2024–25 NBA Playoffs have officially tipped off, and if the opening games are any indication — fans are in for an unforgettable ride! Saturday’s Western Conference matchups delivered everything: comebacks, superstar showdowns, and unexpected heroes.
Game 1: Denver Nuggets 112 – LA Clippers 110 (Overtime Thriller)
The defending champions, Denver Nuggets, found themselves in serious trouble early, trailing by as much as 15 points. But what followed was a gritty, gutsy comeback led by resilience and heart.
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Nikola Jokic took a hit to the face, got a technical for protesting, but still managed to rally his team with poise and determination.
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Russell Westbrook turned back the clock, grabbing clutch offensive rebounds, scoring a crucial putback, and drilling his first career go-ahead 3-pointer in the final 30 seconds of a playoff game.
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Jamal Murray, ice-cold in the first half, came alive late with two massive threes.
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Aaron Gordon added 6 of the team’s 14 overtime points to help seal the win.
On the other side, the Clippers had their chances but were undone by foul trouble and sloppy play.
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James Harden was excellent when on the floor but was limited due to fouls.
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The Clippers committed 20 turnovers, giving up 29 points, which proved costly.
Game 2: Clippers at Nuggets – Monday, 10 PM ET on TNT
What to Watch: Can the Clippers cut down the turnovers and keep Harden on the floor? And will Denver’s role players, especially Michael Porter Jr. (who scored just 3 points), step up in Game 2?
Game 1: Minnesota Timberwolves 131 – Los Angeles Lakers 109
If there was any doubt about Minnesota’s readiness — it’s gone. The 6-seed Timberwolves shocked the 3-seed Lakers with a dominant performance that sent a loud message.
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Luka Doncic started strong, outscoring the Wolves himself early (14-12), and the Lakers led 20-12. But Minnesota never flinched.
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Led by Anthony Edwards, the Wolves flipped the script in the second and third quarters.
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Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid combined for 48 points on an incredible 19-for-25 shooting.
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The Wolves hit a franchise playoff record 21 threes (21-of-42) and won the rebounding battle 44–38.
Coach Chris Finch said before the game, “We know not many people are picking us. Our guys have leaned into that.” And they certainly delivered.
Meanwhile, Lakers coach JJ Redick made a tactical switch, playing Jarred Vanderbilt at center over Jaxson Hayes, but the adjustment wasn’t enough to change the momentum.
Game 2: Timberwolves at Lakers – Tuesday, 10 PM ET on TNT
What to Watch: Will Redick return to his usual starting lineup that went 10–3 during the regular season? Or go small again to try to contain Minnesota’s versatility?
Sunday’s Double-Header Preview
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Oklahoma City Thunder (1) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (8)
All eyes will be on MVP front-runner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as he faces off against the explosive Ja Morant. -
Houston Rockets (2) vs. Golden State Warriors (7)
One of the most improved teams this season, Houston takes on Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler III in what could be a generational clash.
Final Takeaway
One round in, and the message is clear: the Western Conference playoffs are going to be a battle of attrition, tactics, and willpower. Whether it’s a comeback in Denver, a rout in L.A., or a Sunday filled with fireworks, the race to the Finals has already hit full throttle!
