The NBA Playoffs have reached a fever pitch as of May 16, 2025, with two pivotal matchups capturing the basketball world’s attention. In the Western Conference, the Denver Nuggets have forced a Game 7 against the Oklahoma City Thunder, while in the Eastern Conference, the New York Knicks aim to clinch their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in 25 years with a win over the Boston Celtics.
The Denver Nuggets extended their postseason hopes with a 119–107 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 6, leveling their Western Conference semifinal series at 3–3. Despite battling illness, Jamal Murray led the Nuggets with 25 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. Nikola Jokić contributed a double-double, adding 29 points and 14 rebounds. However, it was second-year reserve Julian Strawther who emerged as the unexpected hero, scoring 15 points off the bench, including 3-of-4 shooting from beyond the arc, to ignite a decisive second-half run .The Times of India+3Reuters+3New York Post+3Diario AS+2New York Post+2Reuters+2
The Nuggets’ victory sets up a winner-takes-all Game 7 in Oklahoma City on Sunday, May 18. Denver will look to capitalize on their momentum and avoid a repeat of last year’s semifinal exit. However, concerns linger over Aaron Gordon’s hamstring issue, which could impact the team’s defensive capabilities .Reuters
Tonight, the New York Knicks have the opportunity to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years as they host the Boston Celtics in Game 6 at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks hold a 3–2 series lead, buoyed by the stellar play of All-NBA point guard Jalen Brunson, who has been a driving force throughout the postseason. However, foul trouble limited his impact in Game 5, a 127–102 loss to the Celtics .Posting and Toasting
The Celtics, while facing adversity, are determined to extend the series. The absence of Jayson Tatum due to an Achilles tendon rupture has left a significant void, and limited contributions from Kristaps Porziņģis have further strained Boston’s lineup. Nonetheless, the Celtics have shown resilience, and with a win tonight, they would force a decisive Game 7 in Boston .Posting and Toasting+1Wikipedia+1
🔮 What’s at Stake
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Nuggets vs. Thunder – Game 7: A victory would propel Denver into the Western Conference Finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves, who secured their spot after eliminating the Golden State Warriors in five games .Diario AS
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Knicks vs. Celtics – Game 6: A Knicks win would mark their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in 25 years, facing the Indiana Pacers, who have been awaiting their opponent since sweeping the Miami Heat .
📅 Tonight’s Schedule
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Boston Celtics @ New York Knicks: Game 6, Eastern Conference Semifinals
📍 Madison Square Garden, New York
🕒 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT
📺 ESPN2
As the playoffs intensify, both the Nuggets and Knicks face critical games that could define their postseason journeys. The outcomes of tonight’s and Sunday’s matchups will set the stage for the next chapter in the 2025 NBA Playoffs.
