The 2025 NBA Conference Finals feature two classic matchups. In the East, the New York Knicks face the Indiana Pacers. In the West, the Oklahoma City Thunder take on the Minnesota Timberwolves. Each series brings unique storylines, key player battles, and intriguing odds. Here is a comprehensive preview, including series odds and predictions.
NBA Conference Championship Preview, Odds & Predictions
New York Knicks vs. Indiana Pacers
Series Overview
The Knicks and Pacers renew their storied rivalry in the Eastern Conference Finals. This marks their fourth meeting at this stage, but the first since 2000. The Knicks advanced after a dominant Game 6 win over the Celtics. The Pacers stunned the Cavaliers in five games to reach this point.
Both teams have relied on tough defense and gritty play. The Knicks lean on their starters for most of their production, while the Pacers boast a deeper rotation. Jalen Brunson and Tyrese Haliburton headline the matchup. Each will try to dictate the series’ tempo.
Odds and Home Court
The Knicks are favored to win the series. As of Saturday, New York sits at -150 to reach the NBA Finals, with Indiana at +125. This is only the second time since 1975 that the Knicks have been favored in the Eastern Conference Finals. New York also enjoys home-court advantage for the first time in a conference finals since 1994.
Key Players and Matchups
Jalen Brunson leads the Knicks’ offense. He has averaged 26 and 33 points in two of three regular-season games against Indiana.
Tyrese Haliburton is the Pacers’ engine. He scored 31 points in the closeout win over Cleveland.
The Knicks’ starters, including Josh Hart, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby, have carried the scoring load.
The Pacers depth could be an advantage, especially if the Knicks’ heavy minutes catch up to them.
Series Prediction
The Knicks’ momentum and home-court edge are significant. Their starters are in rhythm, and the Madison Square Garden crowd will be a factor. However, Indiana’s depth and rest could keep the series competitive. I’m taking the Knicks straight up at -150 and sprinkling a little on them in six games at +570.
NBA Conference Championship Preview, Odds & Predictions
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
Series Overview
The Thunder and Timberwolves meet in the Western Conference Finals, both seeking a return to the NBA Finals. Oklahoma City is the top seed and holds home-court advantage. This is their first trip to this stage since 2016. The Timberwolves, seeded sixth, have reached the conference finals after just ten playoff games.
The Thunder survived a tough seven-game series against the defending champion Nuggets. The Timberwolves dispatched the Lakers in five games and the Warriors in five, showing dominance and health.
Odds and Home Court
Oklahoma City is a heavy favorite. The Thunder are -330 to win the series, while the Timberwolves are +265 underdogs. The Thunder also opened as 7.5-point favorites for Game 1 in Oklahoma City.
Key Players and Matchups
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the Thunder. He is a likely MVP candidate and the focal point of their offense.
Anthony Edwards is the Timberwolves’ star. He is eager to lead Minnesota to their first Finals appearance.
Julius Randle has emerged as a key scorer for Minnesota, averaging 23.9 points on 50.9% shooting in the playoffs.
Jalen Williams is a vital piece for the Thunder but has struggled with his shot in the postseason.
Both teams split their regular-season series, each winning two games. The stats were nearly even, with Minnesota averaging 118.8 points to Oklahoma City’s 118.0.
Series Prediction
The Thunder’s depth, home-court advantage, and star power make them the favorites. Minnesota’s path has been easier, but Oklahoma City’s resilience against Denver shows their readiness. Expect a competitive series, I like the over 5.5 games at -140.
NBA Conference Championship Preview, Odds
Final Thoughts
Both conference finals feature compelling matchups and high stakes. The Knicks and Thunder are favored, but their opponents have the talent to push each series deep. Expect physical play, star performances, and the possibility of each series going the distance. The 2025 NBA Finals berth is up for grabs, and the road promises to be dramatic.
