Eastern Conference Playoffs Set: Cavaliers Lead the Charge

As the NBA regular season concludes, the Eastern Conference playoff picture is now set, featuring a blend of dominant performances and compelling matchups that promise an exciting postseason.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have secured the top seed with a league-best record of 64-17, showcasing their dominance throughout the season. Their resilience was on full display in a recent game against the New York Knicks, where they overcame a 23-point first-half deficit to clinch a 108-102 victory. Darius Garland led the comeback with 26 points, including 13 in the fourth quarter. Despite missing key players like Donovan Mitchell, the Cavaliers demonstrated depth with significant contributions from Jarrett Allen, Max Strus, Evan Mobley, Isaac Okoro, and Craig Porter Jr.

The Boston Celtics secured the second seed with a 60-21 record, maintaining a strong presence in the Eastern Conference. Their consistent performance positions them as formidable opponents in the playoffs.

The New York Knicks clinched the third seed with a 50-31 record. Despite their recent loss to the Cavaliers, they secured this position due to the Indiana Pacers' loss to the Orlando Magic. The Knicks are set to face the sixth-seeded Detroit Pistons in the first round. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 27 points in their recent game against the Cavaliers, supported by Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Landry Shamet, and Miles McBride.

The Indiana Pacers finished fourth with a 49-32 record and will face the fifth-seeded Milwaukee Bucks, who secured their position with a 47-34 record. The Bucks' recent victory over the Pistons, highlighted by Giannis Antetokounmpo's triple-double, solidified their fifth seed position.

The Play-In Tournament, scheduled from April 15 to April 18, will determine the final two playoff spots in the Eastern Conference. The matchups are as follows:

• (7) Orlando Magic vs. (8) Atlanta Hawks: The winner secures the seventh seed in the playoffs.
• (9) Chicago Bulls vs. (10) Miami Heat: The winner advances to face the loser of the Magic-Hawks game to compete for the eighth seed.

The Miami Heat recently achieved a franchise-record 153 points in a dominant 153-104 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. Bam Adebayo and Kel'el Ware both recorded double-doubles, showcasing the team's offensive prowess heading into the Play-In Tournament.

The 2025 NBA Playoffs mark the fifth year of the Play-In Tournament format, which was permanently adopted in July 2022. This format adds a layer of excitement and unpredictability, as teams seeded seventh through tenth have a chance to secure the final two playoff spots.

The Cleveland Cavaliers' impressive 64-17 record not only secured them the top seed but also reflects their dominance throughout the regular season. Their ability to rally from significant deficits, as seen in their recent game against the Knicks, underscores their potential as strong contenders for the championship.

The Milwaukee Bucks' recent performance, particularly Giannis Antetokounmpo's triple-double, highlights their readiness for the postseason. Antetokounmpo's leadership and versatility will be crucial as they face the Indiana Pacers in the first round.

The Eastern Conference playoffs promise a blend of established powerhouses and emerging contenders, with the Play-In Tournament adding an extra layer of excitement. Fans can anticipate thrilling matchups and potential upsets as teams vie for the coveted championship title.