NBA Playoffs: Scores, Highlights & What to Watch

Ready for some high‑stakes basketball? The NBA Playoffs are in full swing, and every game feels like a winner‑takes‑all showdown. Below you’ll find the current bracket, game times, and the storylines that are shaping the road to the championship.

Current Playoff Bracket and Schedule

First, let’s break down who’s still alive. The Eastern Conference features the Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, and Milwaukee Bucks battling for the final spot. Out West, the Golden State Warriors, Phoenix Phoenix Suns, and Denver Nuggets are the heavy hitters. Each series is a best‑of‑seven, so a team needs four wins to move on.

Games are streaming on NBA‑LeaguePass and airing on ESPN, TNT, and ABC. Most matchups start at 8 p.m. ET on weeknights, with weekend games kicking off a bit earlier at 7 p.m. ET. Check the official schedule for exact dates, because time‑zone shifts can sneak up on you.

Quick tip: set a reminder for the Game 7s. History shows that a Game 7 can swing the entire conference. The excitement level spikes, and the odds of an upset go through the roof.

Key Storylines and Players to Follow

Every playoff run has its heroes, and this year is no different. Keep an eye on Jayson Tatum, whose scoring bursts have kept Boston alive. In Miami, Jimmy Butler’s defense still packs a punch, and he’s looking to add another ring to his collection.

Out West, Steph Curry continues to rewrite the three‑point record book. If he gets hot early in a series, it’s hard for anyone to catch up. Meanwhile, Nikola Jokić’s playmaking from the center spot has turned Denver into a tactical nightmare for opponents.

Another hot topic is coaching strategy. Teams are leaning heavily on pace‑and‑space, but a few are dropping the ball to a traditional half‑court offense when the game tightens. Watching how coaches switch schemes mid‑series can be just as thrilling as the on‑court action.

If you love a good underdog story, look at the Phoenix Suns. They entered the playoffs as the 8th seed but have already taken a game off the Warriors. A surprise upset could change the whole Western bracket.

Finally, remember that injuries still play a big role. A star missing a game can flip a series in an instant. Stay tuned to the injury report, especially in the later rounds when fatigue sets in.

That’s the quick snapshot you need to stay in the loop. Whether you’re watching live, catching replays, or just following the scores, the NBA Playoffs deliver drama, skill, and moments you’ll talk about for weeks. Grab your snacks, set your alerts, and enjoy the ride to the finals.