The Eastern and Western Conference finals were decided when the New York Knicks and Oklahoma City...

<p>The Eastern and Western Conference finals were decided when the New York Knicks and Oklahoma City Thunder secured spots in the penultimate round, joining the Indiana Pacers and Minnesota Timberwolves.</p><p>Here, we rank the four potential combinations to meet in the NBA Finals, which begin June 5.</p><h3>4. Pacers vs. Timberwolves</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/cropped_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dylan Buell / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Key matchup: </strong>Tyrese Haliburton versus Anthony Edwards</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>It may rank fourth on our list, but a series between the Timberwolves and Pacers would be a sight to behold. These two top-10 offenses go about their scoring in very different ways. Indiana is run-and-gun, pushing the ball whenever possible, while Minnesota was the sixth-slowest team in the regular season.</p><p>The Pacers won both contests in March. Controlling the glass would be key for both squads. Minnesota's gargantuan starting five is averaging 9.2 offensive rebounds per game in the postseason. Rudy Gobert, in particular, has been a menace on the glass and pulled down eight offensive boards across his two regular-season matchups against Indiana. To their credit, the Pacers have been the best defensive rebounding team in the playoffs, grabbing 43.7 per game.</p><p>Both teams possess explosive guards who can take over a series. Haliburton has turned into prime Steve Nash since the calendar flipped to 2025; including playoff games, the Pacers guard has racked up an absurd 472 assists to just 78 turnovers. Edwards, meanwhile, was the regular season's second-leading scorer (29.5) and recorded nine games of 40-plus points.</p><h3>3. Thunder vs. Pacers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/cropped_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">A.J. Mast / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Key matchup:</strong> Jalen Williams versus Pascal Siakam</p><p>An Oklahoma City-Indiana matchup could be considered one of the smallest in terms of market size, but that doesn't take anything away from their quality of basketball. In a clash of contrasting styles, the Pacers rank first in offensive rating (117.3) out of all teams remaining in the playoffs, while the Thunder have the top defensive rating (101.6).</p><p>Oklahoma City won both regular-season matchups. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dropped at least 30 points in each, while Indiana struggled to get a high-scoring effort from any player. The Pacers would need someone to take the reins offensively to match SGA. Siakam leads the team in playoff scoring at 18.8 points per game, but Tyrese Haliburton (17.5) and Myles Turner (16.5) are close behind.</p><p>The Thunder have intriguing matchups to defend Siakam. They used several different defenders in their final regular-season matchup, most notably Jalen Williams. Siakam would be the likely candidate to guard J-Dub, who averaged 17.6 points in the West semifinals.</p><h3>2. Thunder vs. Knicks</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/cropped_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w220xh124_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w320xh180_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w640xh360_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w768xh432_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jesse D. Garrabrant / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Key matchup: </strong>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander versus Jalen Brunson</p><p>The Thunder and Knicks are led by ball-dominant point guards who can both score and distribute at will. Eyeballs will be on Gilgeous-Alexander and Brunson, who are both averaging at least 28 points and 6.5 assists in the postseason.</p><p>Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein would be a player of interest. The former Knicks big man spent two seasons with New York, but Oklahoma City signed him away last summer. Hartenstein averaged career highs in points (11.2), rebounds (10.7), and assists (3.8) during the regular season. He ranks fourth in points and second in rebounds for his team in the playoffs.</p><p>A key contrast would be the minutes distribution. No player in the Knicks' starting lineup is averaging less than 35 minutes, while Oklahoma City's deep rotation has nine players averaging at least 11 minutes. Only Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams play as much as New York's starting five.</p><h3>1. Knicks vs. Timberwolves</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/cropped_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">David Berding / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Key matchup: </strong>Julius Randle<strong> </strong>versus Karl-Anthony Towns</p><p>We rarely see two teams swap multiple-time All-Stars and face off in the NBA Finals a few months later. The trade involving Towns for Randle and Donte DiVincenzo has been an unmitigated success for both franchises; an NBA title would make it a championship-winning trade for one organization.</p><p>Towns' acquisition gave the Knicks an elite shooter, as the 29-year-old is knocking down 42% of his 3-pointers. Randle, meanwhile, gifted the T-Wolves some interior toughness and scoring, grabbing 2.1 offensive rebounds per game despite playing next to Rudy Gobert. The battle between Brunson and Edwards is another tantalizing matchup involving two of the league's best offensive guards. Brunson and Edwards are the postseason's sixth- and eighth-leading scorers, respectively.</p><p>How 37-year-old Mike Conley holds up would be a major storyline. New York and Minnesota split the season series 1-1. Conley scored 13 points on 5-of-9 shooting in the T-Wolves' victory, but he was held to three points and hit just one of his five field-goal attempts in the loss.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31340070/related

Ranking the 4 potential NBA Finals matchups

Golden State Warriors veteran Draymond Green admits he lost his defensive matchup against Minneso...

<p>Golden State Warriors veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> admits he lost his defensive matchup against Minnesota Timberwolves forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31118" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31118">Julius Randle</a> in the Western Conference semifinals.</p><p>"I lost my matchup," Green said on <a href="https://x.com/DraymondShow/status/1924555835625062731">"The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis"</a> on Saturday. "Julius was incredible. And honestly? Some of the shots was shots that you want him to take, and he made them. ... The game oftentimes comes down to shotmaking, and he made the shots.</p><p>"We've been kinda having these little battles since Ju came into the league. Obviously this is the first one on a playoff level, but I got to give it to him, man, he got the better of me."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Green likened the feeling of losing his matchup to Randle to playing then-Toronto Raptors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39061" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39061">Pascal Siakam</a> in the 2019 NBA Finals.</p><p>Randle averaged 25.2 points, 7.4 assists, and 6.6 rebounds in the Western Conference semifinals. He ranked second on the team in scoring behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a>, who averaged 26.2 points per game.</p><p>Green had a quieter series by comparison, posting 10.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.2 steals.</p><p>The Timberwolves defeated the Warriors in five games, leading to their second straight Western Conference finals appearance. </p><p>In 10 postseason games this year, Randle is averaging 23.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 5.9 assists. In two playoff stints with the New York Knicks in 2021 and 2023, he averaged 18 points per game and 16.6 points per game. </p><p>Minnesota faces off against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the conference finals starting Tuesday. </p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - MAY 12: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors and Julius Randle #30 of the Minnesota Timberwolves wait for a rebound during Round Two, Game Four of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 12, 2025 at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31338500/related

Draymond: 'I lost my matchup' against Randle in West semis

Texas Tech head coach Grant McCasland has signed a six-year contract extension through the 2030-3...

<p>Texas Tech head coach Grant McCasland has signed a six-year contract extension through the 2030-31 season, the school announced Monday.</p><p>The extension makes him one of the highest-paid college basketball coaches. </p><p>"Coach McCasland immediately built upon our men's basketball program's established success and continues working to raise and deliver on high expectations," athletic director Kirby Hocutt said in a statement. "We look forward to an exciting future for Texas Tech basketball under Coach McCasland's leadership."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>McCasland has spent two seasons as the Red Raiders' coach, going 51-20. This past campaign, Texas Tech went 28-9 and reached the Elite Eight before losing to Florida, the eventual national champion.</p><p>Prior to joining the Red Raiders, McCasland coached North Texas from 2017-23. The Mean Green won the C-USA Tournament and made it to the Round of 32 in 2021.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 27: Head coach Grant McCasland of the Texas Tech Red Raiders reacts after beating the Arkansas Razorbacks 85-83 during overtime in the West Regional Sweet Sixteen round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Chase Center on March 27, 2025 in San Francisco, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31336765/related

Texas Tech's McCasland signs extension through 2030-31 season

Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman praised Aaron Gordon's effort for playing through a hamst...

<p>Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman praised <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a>'s effort for playing through a hamstring strain in the team's 125-93 Game 7 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.</p><p>"Gordon is incredible," Adelman said, according to <a href="https://x.com/SIChrisMannix/status/1924228163405758519">Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated</a>. "What he played with today, I don't know many people that would even attempt to go run up and down ... one of the most incredible things I've ever seen."</p><p>Gordon recorded eight points and 11 rebounds in 25 minutes Sunday after being given the green light following the pregame warmup.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The injury, which occurred during the Nuggets' Game 6 win, is a Grade 2 strain and will need several weeks to heal, <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1924099706130514392">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> reports.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> led the Nuggets in scoring with 20 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102793" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102793">Christian Braun</a> added 19 points, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a> contributed 13.</p><p>Gordon was a key part of the Nuggets' playoff run, averaging 16.2 points, 7.6 boards, and 2.7 assists across 14 appearances. The 6-foot-8 forward had his share of clutch moments in this postseason, including a game-winning triple against the Thunder in the series opener.</p><p>Denver was scoring 28 more points per 100 possessions with Gordon on the floor in the playoffs entering Game 7.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - MAY 18: Jalen Williams #8 of the Oklahoma City Thunder plays defense during the game against the Denver Nuggets during Round 2 Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 18, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31324205/related

Adelman: Gordon 'incredible' for playing through injury in Game 7

The NBA announced the schedule for both conference finals matchups.  The No. 1 seed Oklahoma City...

<p>The NBA announced the schedule for both conference finals matchups.</p><p>The No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder will host the 6-seed Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals Tuesday.</p><p>In the East, the No. 3 seed New York Knicks will face off against the 4-seed Indiana Pacers in a rematch from last season beginning Wednesday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here's the key viewing information for both series:</p><h3>Eastern Conference</h3><p><strong>New York Knicks (3) vs. Indiana Pacers (4)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td> May 21</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
<td> Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td> May 23</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
<td> Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td> May 25</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Pacers</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td> May 27</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Pacers</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5*</td>
<td> May 29</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
<td> Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6*</td>
<td> May 31</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Pacers</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7*</td>
<td> June 2</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
<td> Pacers</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Western Conference </h3><p><strong>Oklahoma City Thunder (1) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (6)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td> May 20</td>
<td> 8:30 p.m.</td>
<td> Thunder</td>
<td> T-Wolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td> May 22</td>
<td> 8:30 p.m.</td>
<td> Thunder</td>
<td>T-Wolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td> May 24</td>
<td> 8:30 p.m.</td>
<td> T-Wolves</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td> May 26</td>
<td> 8:30 p.m.</td>
<td> T-Wolves</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5*</td>
<td> May 28</td>
<td> 8:30 p.m.</td>
<td> Thunder</td>
<td>T-Wolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6*</td>
<td> May 30</td>
<td> 8:30 p.m.</td>
<td> T-Wolves</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7*</td>
<td>June 1</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Thunder</td>
<td>T-Wolves</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>* If necessary</em></p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - MAY 10: Close up of the Playoffs logo during the game between the Golden State Warriors and the Minnesota Timberwolves during Round 2 Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 10, 2025 at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31329643/related

NBA finalizes conference finals schedule

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is feeling ready for Game 7.  "It's do-or-die," Gilgeous-Alexander said T...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> is feeling ready for Game 7.</p><p>"It's do-or-die," Gilgeous-Alexander said Thursday after the Oklahoma City Thunder's Game 6 loss to the Denver Nuggets. "It's what you live for. It's what you worked your whole life for. It's either your dream continues or your dream ends, so you lay it all out there on the floor and live with the results. But I'm excited for the opportunity, for sure."</p><p>He led his team in scoring, posting 32 points and six assists. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102801" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102801">Chet Holmgren</a> was the only other Thunder player to score more than 10 points, adding 19 to go along with 10 rebounds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Gilgeous-Alexander also offered encouragement for All-Star teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102799" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102799">Jalen Williams</a>, who recorded six points on 3-for-16 shooting in the 119-107 defeat.</p><p>"It's life," Gilgeous-Alexander said, according to <a href="https://x.com/CAlmanza1007/status/1923228947904450966">Clemente Almanza of OKC Thunder Wire</a>. "It's basketball. Tonight wasn't his night, clearly. Best part about it is he'll have an opportunity to change that if he has a big game next game."</p><p>Going into Game 6, Gilgeous-Alexander was averaging 28 points, 6.7 assists, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per playoff contest. The 26-year-old has shot 44.6% from the field and 24% from three.</p><p>The Thunder won 68 games during the regular season, the most in franchise history. They earned the top overall seed in the playoffs and swept the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander, the likely MVP, averaged 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game in the regular season.</p><p>Oklahoma City hosts Game 7 on Sunday.</p>

DENVER, CO - MAY 15: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder dribbles the ball during the game against the Denver Nuggets during Round 2 Game 6 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 15, 2025 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31303178/related

Thunder's SGA ready for 'do-or-die' Game 7

The Minnesota Timberwolves will return to the Western Conference finals for a second straight sea...

<p>The Minnesota Timberwolves will return to the Western Conference finals for a second straight season after eliminating the Golden State Warriors with a 121-110 victory Wednesday.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31118" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31118">Julius Randle</a> led the Timberwolves in scoring with 29 points and eight rebounds, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> added 22 points, 12 assists, and seven boards.</p><p>The Timberwolves recorded 36 assists in the win.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Minnesota won four straight after dropping the first game of the series. It will face either the Oklahoma City Thunder or Denver Nuggets in the conference finals, beginning the next round on the road.</p><p>Edwards said he feels "no satisfaction" with the team's playoff run so far, according to <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/1922878420045754510">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>.</p><p>Minnesota reached the West finals as the 3-seed last year, beating the Nuggets and Phoenix Suns before losing to the Dallas Mavericks. Prior to last season, the franchise had reached the conference finals just once in 34 years of existence - in 2004.</p><p>Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch said he issued a challenge to his team all season.</p><p>"Were you a Western Conference finals team, or were you a team that just happened to make the Western Conference finals," Finch said, per <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/1922871390698385730">McMenamin</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110258" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110258">Brandin Podziemski</a> recorded 28 points, six rebounds, and four assists for the Warriors in Wednesday's loss. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a> contributed 26 points off the bench.</p><p>Steve Kerr suffered his first playoff series defeat in five games or fewer since joining the Warriors in 2014, according to <a href="https://x.com/SamQuinnCBS/status/1922866064460833016">Sam Quinn of CBS Sports</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> missed the majority of the series after suffering a hamstring injury in Game 1. He was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3285817" href="https://thescore.com/news/3285817">cleared</a> for shooting drills and light on-court workouts in hopes of returning for a potential Game 6.</p><p>The Warriors went 48-34 in the regular season, boasting the league's best defense after the All-Star break and the acquisition of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a>. The Warriors beat the Grizzlies in the play-in tournament to reach the postseason then topped the Houston Rockets in seven games in the first round.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - MAY 14: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves dribbles the ball during the game against the Golden State Warriors during Round 2 Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 14, 2025 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31294609/related

T-Wolves reach 2nd straight WCF after knocking out Warriors

The Atlanta Hawks have interest in hiring Toronto Raptors president Masai Ujiri for their new pre...

<p>The Atlanta Hawks have interest in hiring Toronto Raptors president Masai Ujiri for their new president of basketball operations role, sources told <a href="https://x.com/TheDunkCentral/status/1922820982684659838">NBA insider Marc Stein</a>.</p><p>It's unclear what sort of chance the Hawks have at hiring Ujiri away from Toronto, Stein adds.</p><p>Ujiri has served as the Raptors' lead decision-maker since 2013. He guided the franchise through it's most successful era in its history, making eight playoff appearances in nine seasons and winning its first championship in 2019.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, the club has gone 96-150 since its last playoff appearance in 2022.</p><p>Ujiri also previously spent time with the Denver Nuggets, winning Executive of the Year in 2013. </p><p>The Hawks parted ways with general manager Landry Fields in April, promoting Onsi Saleh. Atlanta also announced its intention to hire a president of basketball operations, bringing in a consulting group for the search.</p><p>Fields was named general manager in 2022 and was responsible for drafting forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121714" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121714">Zaccharie Risacher</a> first overall last year.</p><p>The Hawks have missed the postseason in two straight campaigns.</p>

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 12: President Masai Ujiri of the Toronto Raptors looks on during 2025 NBA Draft Lottery on May 12, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois at McCormick Convention Center. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31293043/related

Report: Hawks eyeing Ujiri for president of basketball ops

The Indiana Pacers advanced to their second straight Eastern Conference finals with a 114-105 vic...

<p>The Indiana Pacers advanced to their second straight Eastern Conference finals with a 114-105 victory over the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday.</p><p>Indiana mounted a 19-point comeback across the second and third quarters.</p><p>Cleveland brought its deficit to within a single point in the fourth quarter but was outscored 27-19 in the last 9:24.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> led Indiana in scoring with 31 points, adding eight assists and six rebounds. All of the starting lineup scored in double figures, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39061" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39061">Pascal Siakam</a> contributing 21 points, eight rebounds, five assists, and two blocks.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a> scored 35 points in the defeat. He shot 8-of-25 from the field but went 15-of-21 from the free-throw line. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a> added 24 points and 11 rebounds.</p><p>The Pacers won all three games in Cleveland, including the first two of the series.</p><p>"Very excited for our fans, our ownership, and our city," Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said, according to NBA reporter <a href="https://x.com/ScottAgness/status/1922471223956472279">Scott Agness</a>. "Winning a close-out game on the road is extremely difficult."</p><p>The Cavaliers won 64 games in the regular season, second most in franchise history. Kenny Atkinson won Coach of the Year, while Mobley earned Defensive Player of the Year. Cleveland swept the Miami Heat in the opening round.</p><p>Indiana made the Eastern Conference finals last season, beating the Milwaukee Bucks and New York Knicks before losing to the eventual champion Boston Celtics.</p><p>The Pacers defeated the Bucks in the first round and will now face either the Celtics or Knicks for a spot in the NBA Finals.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - MAY 13: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers steals the ball from Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Indiana Pacers during the first quarter in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena on May 13, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31281749/related

Pacers mount 19-point comeback to bounce Cavs, reach East finals

Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry was ruled out for Wednesday's do-or-die Game 5 of the We...

<p>Golden State Warriors star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> was ruled out for Wednesday's do-or-die Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals due to his ongoing hamstring strain.</p><p>Curry suffered the injury during the second quarter of the series opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves. He was originally <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3282180" href="https://thescore.com/news/3282180">ruled out</a> for a week, which sidelined him through Game 4.</p><p>The Timberwolves won the next three games, including a pair in Golden State.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Warriors have struggled offensively, scoring more than 100 points just once in the series. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> is leading the team with 21 points per game but is shooting 44.1% from the field.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a> has also entered the rotation consistently after missing Games 4-6 of the first round against the Houston Rockets. The 22-year-old is averaging 19.5 points and three rebounds on 57.4% field-goal shooting.</p><p>Curry has been durable the past two seasons, playing 144 out of 164 regular-season contests.</p><p>The 37-year-old is averaging 22.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.1 assists in the playoffs.</p>

The Golden State Warriors' Stephen Curry acknowledges the Warriors as they exit following Game 4 of the NBA Playoffs Western Conference Semifinals at Chase Center in San Francisco, Monday, May 12, 2025. The Minnesota Timberwolves won 117-110 and lead the series 3-1.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31280133/related

Curry remains out for Game 5 vs. T-Wolves

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum underwent surgery to repair a ruptured right Achilles tendon, th...

<p>Boston Celtics star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> underwent surgery to repair a ruptured right Achilles tendon, the team announced Tuesday.</p><p>Tatum has no timetable for a return, but he is expected to make a full recovery.</p><p>The 27-year-old <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3285027" href="https://thescore.com/news/3285027">suffered</a> the injury during a noncontact play Monday night in the final minutes of the Celtics' Game 4 loss to the New York Knicks. He had to be helped off the court by team staff. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tatum scored 42 points in 40 minutes before leaving with the injury. Boston, the defending NBA champion, is down 3-1 in the Eastern Conference semifinals.</p><p>Tatum has been one of the most durable players in the NBA, appearing in more games (706) than any player since his arrival in 2017. He led the Celtics in total points, rebounds, and assists over the past two playoffs runs, which included winning an NBA championship in 2024.</p><p>The 6-foot-8 forward has earned All-NBA first-team honors for the past three seasons and will likely do so for the fourth time this campaign.</p><p>Tatum, a six-time All-Star, holds career averages of 23.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. </p>

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 12: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics handles the ball during the game against the New York Knicks during Round 2 Game 4 on May 12, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31278976/related

Celtics' Tatum undergoes surgery on ruptured Achilles

The Dallas Mavericks have earned a chance to grab consensus No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg in the 2025 N...

<p>The Dallas Mavericks have earned a chance to grab consensus No. 1 pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162169" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162169">Cooper Flagg</a> in the 2025 NBA Draft after winning Monday's draft lottery.</p><p>The San Antonio Spurs will pick second, while the Philadelphia 76ers are slated to make the third selection. </p><p>The Mavericks originally had a 1.8% chance of earning the top pick, jumping from the 11th spot to first. It is the biggest increase by a franchise in lottery history, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45117355/mavericks-win-nba-draft-lottery-18-odds">ESPN's Michael C. Wright and Jonathan Givony</a>. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here are the results for picks 1-14:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pick</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Dallas Mavericks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td> San Antonio Spurs</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td> Philadelphia 76ers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td> Charlotte Hornets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td> Utah Jazz</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td> Washington Wizards</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td> New Orleans Pelicans</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td> Brooklyn Nets </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td> Toronto Raptors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td> Houston Rockets (via PHX)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td> Portland Trail Blazers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>Chicago Bulls</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>Atlanta Hawks (via SAC)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td>San Antonio Spurs (via ATL)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>After a tumultuous season, Dallas now has the chance to add a new top offensive option with Flagg. The Mavericks traded away five-time All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> to the Los Angeles Lakers in February for a package including veteran center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a>. They finished the season 39-43, losing in the play-in tournament.</p><p>"For us, it's been a rough year as you all know," Mavs draft lottery representative Rolando Blackman said. "But the important part of the whole thing is that we'll get a chance to move our franchise forward. We have a tremendous staff and management. The important factor for us is to be able to continue in that tradition and to be able to move forward. It's really a great honor, and it's an important piece of the puzzle because we've been wanting hoop down in Dallas."</p><p>Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 blocks, and 1.4 steals in his freshman season with Duke. He shot 48.1% from the field and 38% from three. The 6-foot-9 forward won the Naismith and Wooden awards in addition to AP Player of the Year.</p><p>The Mavericks have only had one other No. 1 pick, selecting Mark Aguirre with the top selection in the 1981 draft. </p><p>The Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, and Charlotte Hornets had a 14% chance of landing the first pick. The New Orleans Pelicans rounded out the top four after having 12.5% odds at the top selection. Only the Hornets remained in the first quartet of picks. </p><p>The Spurs have had back-to-back Rookie of the Year winners with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121685" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121685">Stephon Castle</a> this season and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> in 2023.</p><p>The first round of the draft will take place June 25 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Round 2 will take place the next night.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - MAY 12: Dallas Maverics have officially won the in NBA Draft Lottery with 1.8% pre-lottery chance to win the pick in Chicago, Illinois, United States on May 12, 2025. San Antonio Spurs got the second pick, Philadelphia 76ers got 3rd and Charlotte Hornets got the 4th pick in the lottery.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31270814/related

Mavs win draft lottery, chance to pick consensus No. 1 Cooper Flagg

Indiana Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin was ejected in the first quarter of Sunday's 129-109 Game...

<p>Indiana Pacers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102759" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102759">Bennedict Mathurin</a> was ejected in the first quarter of Sunday's 129-109 Game 4 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers for striking <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53037" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53037">De'Andre Hunter</a> in the sternum with a closed fist.</p><p>Hunter responded by shoving Mathurin after a stoppage in play and was subsequently assessed a technical foul. Pacers center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37711" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37711">Myles Turner</a> was also given a technical for pushing Hunter.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bennedict Mathurin has been ejected from Game 4 against the Cavs.<br><br>🎥 <a href="https://twitter.com/RomeovilleKid?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RomeovilleKid</a> <a href="https://t.co/5cqJexELow">pic.twitter.com/5cqJexELow</a></p>— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheAthletic/status/1921726763186438269?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"During review, it was observed that Hunter pushed Mathurin with two hands. That dead ball act was deemed to be (an) unsportsmanlike act and (a) technical foul was assessed for that action," crew chief John Goble <a href="https://official.nba.com/pool-report-on-the-flagrant-foul-penalty-2-and-the-technical-fouls-called-in-the-first-quarter-of-tonights-cleveland-at-indiana-game/">told</a> The Indianapolis Star's Dustin Dopirak in the postgame pool report interview.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Turner was then also observed bumping Turner, and that dead ball act was also deemed to be (an) unsportsmanlike act and a technical foul was assessed."</p><p>Mathurin played just one minute, recording a single rebound. Hunter recorded five points and two rebounds in the first quarter.</p><p>In seven playoff games this season, Mathurin has averaged 13.4 points and 2.7 rebounds in 20.3 minutes of action. The 22-year-old missed the Pacers' 2024 run to the Eastern Conference finals due to a torn labrum in his shoulder.</p><p>Indiana selected Mathurin with the eighth pick in the 2022 NBA Draft.</p><p>The Pacers hold a 3-1 series lead and can book a second straight East finals appearance with a victory Tuesday in Cleveland.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MAY 9: Bennedict Mathurin #00 of the Indiana Pacers looks on during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers during Round 2 Game 3 on May 9, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31263758/related

Pacers' Mathurin ejected in Game 4 win for striking Hunter

The Indiana Pacers took a 3-1 series lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals thanks to a domina...

<p>The Indiana Pacers took a 3-1 series lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals thanks to a dominant 129-109 victory over the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday.</p><p>The Pacers claimed a whopping 80-39 lead at halftime and extended it to 44 in the second half. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39061" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39061">Pascal Siakam</a> put up 21 points and was one of six Indiana players to score in double figures.</p><p>The team is now one victory away from reaching the Eastern Conference finals, where the eventual champion Boston Celtics ended the Pacers' season last year.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cavaliers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a> didn't play in the second half due to a left ankle injury. Cleveland coach Kenny Atkinson said Mitchell will get an MRI on Monday, according to <a href="https://x.com/ScottAgness/status/1921759089203273907">NBA reporter Scott Agness</a>.</p><p>"I will be good for Tuesday," Mitchell said, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6348937/2025/05/11/donovan-mitchell-mri-ankle-injury-cavaliers-paceres/">Joe Vardon of The Athletic</a>. He left the arena without a walking boot or crutches, under his own power.</p><p>Mitchell recorded 11 points on 3-of-12 shooting. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a> led the Cavs in scoring with 21 points and six assists.</p><p>Indiana bench boss Rick Carlisle surpassed Larry Bird for most postseason wins with 33. Carlisle won 18 playoff games between 2004 and 2006 before returning to the franchise in 2021, taking the team back to the postseason two seasons later.</p><p>"We haven't done anything yet," Carlisle said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/ESPNNBA/status/1921764618478706848">ESPN</a>. "We're a pretty significant underdog in every game that we've played in this series, and that will continue until the end. We're going to keep approaching this like we have everything to prove, and we know people don't believe in us. We're just gonna stay in the fight and keep fighting." </p><p>Pacers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102759" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102759">Bennedict Mathurin</a> was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3284393" href="https://thescore.com/news/3284393">ejected</a> early into the contest after striking Cavaliers wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53037" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53037">De'Andre Hunter</a> in the sternum with a fist. Hunter responded by pushing Mathurin to the court.</p><p>Indiana shot 52.7% from the floor and took 23 more shots than Cleveland. The Pacers also forced 22 turnovers, leading to 35 points from the Cavs. Atkinson called his opponent's performance "complete domination," according to <a href="https://x.com/NBAonTNT/status/1921762528691937630">NBAonTNT</a>.</p><p>"They raised their game to another level, and we didn't match it," Atkinson added, per <a href="https://x.com/NBATV/status/1921765416478593240">NBA TV</a>.</p><p>After losing the first two games in Cleveland, the Cavs came back to win Game 3 by 22 in Indiana on Friday.</p><p>The Pacers can clinch the series with a victory Tuesday.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MAY 11: Myles Turner #33, Aaron Nesmith #23, Pascal Siakam #43, Andrew Nembhard #2 and Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Indiana Pacers look on during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers during Round 2 Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 11, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31264581/related

Pacers demolish Cavs to snatch 3-1 series lead

Draymond Green pushed back against the perception that he's an angry person following his latest ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> pushed back against the perception that he's an angry person following his latest controversial on-court interaction during the Golden State Warriors' 117-93 Game 2 defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday.</p><p>The veteran forward gave a brief postgame statement, saying there's a concerted effort to make him look bad before walking away from the media.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Draymond Green just wanted to give one quick postgame statement: “The agenda to continue to keep making me look like an angry black man is crazy. I’m sick of it. It’s ridiculous.” <a href="https://t.co/ay7TLFhjWL">pic.twitter.com/ay7TLFhjWL</a></p>— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) <a href="https://twitter.com/anthonyVslater/status/1920689619999289793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I'm not an angry Black man," Green said, according to Anthony Slater of The Athletic. "I'm a very successful, educated Black man with a great family, and I'm great at basketball, I'm great at what I do. The agenda to continue to keep making me look like an angry Black man is crazy. I'm sick of it. It's ridiculous."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Green picked up his fifth technical foul of the playoffs Thursday after <a href="https://x.com/MrBuckBuckNBA/status/1920649625439990015">hitting</a> Timberwolves forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69736" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69736">Naz Reid</a> in the face with his arm. He then argued with officials following the call while teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Steph Curry</a> attempted to calm him down.</p><p>Green previously <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3280968" href="https://thescore.com/news/3280968">took</a> accountability for his actions during the Warriors' first-round series against the Houston Rockets. Following a Game 6 flagrant-1 foul call involving arguing with referees during live play, Green said he was "embarrassed."</p><p>The 35-year-old has a long history of on-court misconduct both during the postseason and the regular season. He was suspended for 16 games last season after he hit <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37599" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37599">Jusuf Nurkic</a> in the head. Green also received a five-game ban last campaign for putting Timberwolves center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30615" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30615">Rudy Gobert</a> in a headlock.</p><p>The Warriors big man is two technical fouls away from his seventh this postseason, which would result in an automatic one-game suspension. He also has two flagrant fouls, two shy from another one-game ban.</p><p>"He's going to have to be careful," Kerr said, according to <a href="https://x.com/anthonyVslater/status/1920679882423443854">Slater</a>. "He's going to have to stay composed, and I'm confident he will because he knows the circumstances."</p><p>Green recorded nine points, five assists, and four rebounds in Thursday's loss.</p><p>The Warriors host Game 3 on Saturday. </p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - MAY 8: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors prepares to shoot a free throw during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves during Round 2 Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 8, 2025 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31233772/related

Draymond: I'm tired of 'agenda' to make me look bad

Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch called out star guard Anthony Edwards for his lack ...

<p>Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch called out star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> for his lack of energy in the team's 99-88 home defeat to the Golden State Warriors in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals</p><p>"You're the leader of the team, and you've gotta come out and set the tone," Finch said, per <a href="https://x.com/NBATV/status/1919974283368874199">NBA TV</a>. "If your shot's not going, you still have to carry the energy. If I have to talk to guys about having the right energy coming into an opening second-round game, then we're not on the same page."</p><p>Edwards scored 23 points in the defeat but went 9-of-22 from the field and 1-of-5 from three. He had just one point in the first half.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It starts with Anthony. He struggled early and the light went out," Finch said, according to <a href="https://x.com/JonKrawczynski/status/1919970808853631096">The Athletic's Jon Krawczynski</a>. </p><p>Finch called the team's decision-making in transition "diabolical," per <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/1919970637579264508">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>.</p><p>The Timberwolves struggled to shoot the ball overall. They went 5-of-29 from three and missed all 15 of their first-half attempts.</p><p>"It didn't look like us at all. It didn't feel like us at all," Finch said, per <a href="https://x.com/JonKrawczynski/status/1919970964042899857">Krawczynski</a>.</p><p>Minnesota can tie up the playoff series with a victory Thursday. </p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - MAY 06: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts during the third quarter against the Golden State Warriors in Game One of the Western Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at Target Center on May 06, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31215959/related

Finch calls out Edwards' effort: 'You're the leader of the team'

Cleveland Cavaliers forwards Evan Mobley and De'Andre Hunter missed Tuesday's 120-119 Game 2 defe...

<p>Cleveland Cavaliers forwards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53037" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53037">De'Andre Hunter</a> missed Tuesday's 120-119 Game 2 defeat against the Indiana Pacers due to their respective ankle and thumb injuries.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a> also missed his fourth straight game because of a toe sprain.</p><p>The Cavs led by seven points with 1:06 left in the contest. The Pacers scored 10 points to finish the game, including a game-winning, step-back three from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cleveland started <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53038" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53038">Ty Jerome</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52639" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52639">Max Strus</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44986" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44986">Dean Wade</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53393" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53393">Jarrett Allen</a> in the loss.</p><p>The Pacers were led by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37711" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37711">Myles Turner</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93847" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93847">Aaron Nesmith</a>, who scored 23 points each. Haliburton added 19 points and nine rebounds. </p><p>Mobley and Hunter suffered their injuries during Sunday's Game 1 defeat.</p><p>Mobley was named Defensive Player of the Year for the 2024-25 season. He averaged 18.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.6 blocks over the regular season. </p><p>Hunter was acquired at the trade deadline from the Atlanta Hawks. The 27-year-old has averaged 12.6 points in the playoffs, shooting 60% from deep. </p><p>The Pacers host Game 3 on Friday.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - MAY 04: Evan Mobley #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers brings the ball up court during the first quarter of game one of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Indiana Pacers at Rocket Arena on May 04, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31211328/related

Mobley, Hunter join Garland on sidelines for Game 2 loss to Pacers

Kenny Atkinson of the Cleveland Cavaliers was named Coach of the Year for the 2024-25 season, the...

<p>Kenny Atkinson of the Cleveland Cavaliers was named Coach of the Year for the 2024-25 season, the NBA <a href="https://x.com/NBAPR/status/1919520869442896086">announced</a> Monday.</p><p>Atkinson received the award over J.B. Bickerstaff of the Detroit Pistons and Ime Udoka of the Houston Rockets. </p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Coach</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>1st-place votes (5 points)</th>
<th>Total points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Kenny Atkinson</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>59</td>
<td>401</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>J.B. Bickerstaff</td>
<td>Pistons</td>
<td>31</td>
<td>305</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ime Udoka</td>
<td>Rockets</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>113</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mark Daigneault</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>41</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyronn Lue</td>
<td>Clippers</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>35</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>JJ Redick</td>
<td>Lakers</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Cavs' bench boss took over this campaign after spending four seasons as an assistant with the Los Angeles Clippers and Golden State Warriors. He won a championship with the Warriors in 2022.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Atkinson guided Cleveland to a 64-18 record, good for first in the Eastern Conference. The Cavaliers finished the regular season with the best offensive rating (121.0) and eighth-best defensive rating (111.8).</p><p>Prior to joining the franchise, Atkinson spent just under four seasons with the Brooklyn Nets as head coach. He finished fifth in Coach of the Year voting in 2019 after leading the Nets to a 42-40 record. He stepped down in 2020 after Brooklyn posted a 28-34 record through 62 games.</p><p>The Cavaliers lost the first game of their second-round matchup against the Indiana Pacers.</p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - MARCH 28: Head coach Kenny Atkinson of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on March 28, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31202293/related

Cavs' Atkinson wins Coach of the Year

The Golden State Warriors vanquished the Houston Rockets' hopes of a 3-1 series comeback Sunday w...

<p>The Golden State Warriors vanquished the Houston Rockets' hopes of a 3-1 series comeback Sunday with a 103-89 road victory in Game 7.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24735" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24735">Buddy Hield</a> led the way with 33 points - 22 in the first half - and nine 3-pointers, tying the record for most triples in a Game 7. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> contributed 22 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> added 20 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists.</p><p>The Warriors led by as many as 20 points in the fourth quarter, including a 12-0 run to seal the game. They held the Rockets to 40.5% shooting from the field and 33.3% from three.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Golden State has now won five playoff series against the Rockets with Curry on the roster. The Warriors have closed out three of those matchups in Houston - 2018, 2019, and 2025.</p><p>"I'm blown away by Steph's competitive fight," Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said, according to <a href="https://x.com/NotoriousOHM/status/1919234228127945175">ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk</a>. "He has four rings, a gold medal. He has nothing to prove, and yet he is going to come in every single night with something to prove. Draymond (Green) and Jimmy too."</p><p>Green complimented the Rockets postgame, praising coach Ime Udoka along with center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96113" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96113">Alperen Sengun</a>, veterans <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/25275" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/25275">Fred VanVleet</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24302" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24302">Steven Adams</a>, and forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102778" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102778">Jabari Smith Jr.</a></p><p>"I gained a lot of respect for that team throughout this series, one of the tougher series I’ve played in, personally," Green said, per <a href="https://x.com/NBATV/status/1919242458346459316">NBA TV</a>. "But that’s a young team to be reckoned with."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110271" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110271">Amen Thompson</a> scored 24 points and grabbed nine rebounds for the Rockets. Sengun recorded 21 points and 14 rebounds.</p><p>The Rockets made the playoffs for the first time since the 2019-20 campaign. They finished the regular season with a 52-30 record, second best in the Western Conference.</p><p>The No. 7 Warriors will face the No. 6 Minnesota Timberwolves in the conference semifinals beginning Tuesday. This is the third occasion in NBA history when a six and seven seed have matched up in the postseason, according to <a href="https://x.com/keerthikau/status/1919233857829700057">NBA reporter Keerthika Uthayakumar</a>.</p>

HOUSTON, TX - MAY 4: Buddy Hield #7 of the Golden State Warriors handles the ball during the game against the Houston Rockets during Round 1 Game 7 on May 4, 2025 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31196694/related

Warriors end Rockets' 3-1 comeback attempt with Game 7 win

NBC Sports announced Saturday that Carmelo Anthony will join its NBA coverage team as a studio an...

<p>NBC Sports announced Saturday that Carmelo Anthony will join its NBA coverage team as a studio analyst for next season.</p><p>"Watching the NBA on NBC growing up shaped my love for the game," Anthony said in a statement. "Now, I'm thrilled to join the NBC Sports family. I've always used my platform to help grow the game, and I'm excited to bring fans a fresh perspective as we usher in a new era of NBA coverage and programming."</p><p>Anthony, a newly inducted member of the Hall of Fame, also confirmed the news during NBC Sports' coverage of the Kentucky Derby. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Anthony played 19 years in the NBA, primarily with the Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks. A 10-time All-Star and six-time All-NBA selection, Anthony ranks 10th on the league's all-time scoring list with 28,289 points.</p><p>The 6-foot-7 forward holds career averages of 22.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game.</p><p>Anthony also led Syracuse to an NCAA championship in 2003 and won three consecutive Olympic gold medals with Team USA between 2008-16.</p><p>Since retiring in 2023, Anthony has hosted a podcast, "7PM in Brooklyn."</p><p>NBC has hired Anthony, Jamal Crawford, and Reggie Miller as game analysts for its NBA coverage next season, with Mike Tirico and Noah Eagle handling play-by-play duties. The network will broadcast regular-season and playoff contests and is set to launch "Sunday Night Basketball" in 2026.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 8: Carmelo Anthony looks on during the game between the Boston Celtics ant the New York Knicks on April 8, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31182519/related

Carmelo Anthony joining NBC Sports as studio analyst

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/thomas-tittley/content_cards

Thomas Tittley

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/donald-higney/content_cards

Donald Higney

Basketball News Editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/chicco-nacion/content_cards