Explore key storylines from the 2025 NBA Playoffs Western Conference first round — from Anthony Edwards dominating the Lakers to Russell Westbrook’s clutch heroics for the Nuggets.
West Round 1 Madness: Surprises, Superstars & Statement Wins
The 2025 NBA Playoffs have tipped off with a bang, and the Western Conference wasted no time delivering high-stakes basketball and jaw-dropping performances. Saturday’s first-round matchups proved that the postseason will be anything but predictable. From Anthony Edwards lighting up Los Angeles to Russell Westbrook’s vintage heroics in Denver, Round 1 is already defying expectations.
Here’s a breakdown of the weekend’s action and what to watch as the first round rolls on.
Timberwolves Shock Lakers in Commanding Game 1 Win
Final Score: Timberwolves 117, Lakers 95
The Lakers entered the playoffs riding high — armed with a new slogan, “Unleash Joy,” and boasting one of the league’s most dangerous trios in Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves. After acquiring Doncic midseason and securing the No. 3 seed, L.A. seemed poised for a deep playoff run.
But the Timberwolves had other plans.
Doncic came out hot, scoring 14 early points to spark a 20-12 lead. Then Minnesota flipped the script. With Anthony Edwards leading the charge, the Wolves dominated the second and third quarters, pulling ahead by as many as 27.
What really turned heads was the production from Minnesota’s supporting cast. Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid combined for 48 points on 19-of-25 shooting, outplaying the Lakers’ bench. The Wolves also drained a franchise-best 21 three-pointers on 42 attempts while winning the rebounding battle 44-38.
Coach Chris Finch summed it up: “We know we’re not the popular pick, but our guys thrive on that.”
Looking Ahead: Game 2 Preview
Date: Tuesday, April 22 | Time: 10 p.m. ET | TV: TNT
Lakers coach JJ Redick faces a lineup dilemma. Starting center Jaxson Hayes logged just eight minutes in Game 1, with Jarred Vanderbilt getting more run at the 5. Redick will need to decide whether to stick with the lineup that thrived late in the season or adjust to Minnesota’s tempo and spacing.
Nuggets Outlast Clippers in Overtime Battle
Final Score: Nuggets 112, Clippers 110 (OT)
Denver showcased its resilience in Game 1. Despite falling behind by 15 and watching Nikola Jokic take a shot to the face (followed by a technical foul for protesting), the defending champs found a way to win.
Russell Westbrook was the spark Denver needed, crashing the offensive glass, hitting a crucial go-ahead three (his first in such a playoff moment), and energizing the crowd with relentless effort. Jamal Murray recovered from a cold start to bury two clutch threes, while Aaron Gordon chipped in six of the Nuggets’ 14 overtime points.
Missed Opportunities for L.A.
James Harden struggled with foul trouble throughout but still flashed brilliance in limited minutes. Turnovers were the Clippers’ downfall, with 20 miscues turning into 29 Denver points. That’s the kind of stat that swings a playoff game.
Looking Ahead: Game 2 Preview
Date: Monday, April 21 | Time: 10 p.m. ET | TV: TNT
The Nuggets need more from Michael Porter Jr., who scored Denver’s opening basket but faded fast, finishing with just three points. If Denver’s stars can’t keep carrying the full load, they’ll need MPJ to step up moving forward.
Thunder vs. Grizzlies: MVP Favorite Meets a Team in Transition
Tipoff: Sunday, April 20 | 1 p.m. ET | ABC
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the No. 1-seeded Thunder into the playoffs after an outstanding regular season. Oklahoma City boasted the league’s best point differential and came just two wins shy of a historic 70-win season.
What to Watch: Thunder’s Dominance Potential
This team has the tools to dominate. With elite defense, smart ball movement, and unmatched depth, the Thunder look poised for a deep run — if they stay focused and consistent through the postseason grind.
What to Watch: Grizzlies’ New Identity
After parting ways with longtime coach Taylor Jenkins in late March, Memphis turned to interim coach Tuomas Iisalo to lead the charge. The early results were rocky, but with Ja Morant back as the team’s engine, the Grizzlies are hoping to click just in time. Game 1 will be a true litmus test for this new direction.
Rockets vs. Warriors: Youth vs. Experience
Tipoff: Sunday, April 20 | 9:30 p.m. ET | TNT
The second-seeded Rockets enter the postseason as one of the league’s most improved squads, but they face a daunting first-round opponent: the battle-tested Golden State Warriors, featuring Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler III.
Key Focus: Rockets’ Half-Court Execution
Coach Ime Udoka has built a tough, physical team — but postseason success requires efficient half-court offense. Can Houston sustain quality possessions against Golden State’s experienced defenders? All eyes are on rookie Amen Thompson, who recently held Curry to a 1-for-10 performance. Can he repeat that feat when it matters most?
Key Focus: Warriors’ Adjustments
With Houston’s perimeter defenders expected to hound Curry, Butler III will play a critical role in providing scoring relief. Inside, Draymond Green must overcome a major size disadvantage to hold his ground against the Rockets’ Alperen Sengun, who stands five inches taller. Expect Kerr to dig deep into his tactical toolbox.
Takeaway: No Clear Favorites in the Wild West
Round 1 has made one thing clear: there are no easy paths in the Western Conference. Veterans are being tested, young stars are rising, and even role players are changing the narrative.
From Anthony Edwards leading a Minnesota uprising to Westbrook turning back the clock in Denver, the 2025 NBA Playoffs are living up to the hype — and it’s only just begun.
Stay locked in for more twists, high-stakes showdowns, and signature playoff moments as the road to the Finals continues.
