As we enter the final stretch of the 2024-25 NBA regular season, every Eastern Conference team is positioning itself for the playoffs in different ways. Here are the primary goals:

Cleveland Cavaliers

Goal: Lock up the No. 1 seed. Cleveland is focused on maintaining the top spot in the East, with a significant lead over Boston.

Boston Celtics

Goal: Flip the switch. After a rough stretch, the Celtics need to harness their recent momentum heading into the playoffs.

New York Knicks

Goal: Incorporate Mitchell Robinson. Robinson’s return will be crucial as they aim for a strong finish.

Indiana Pacers

Goal: Achieve a top-four seed. As one of the hottest teams late in the season, the Pacers are looking to solidify their playoff position.

Milwaukee Bucks

Goal: Secure a top-four seed. Staying within the top echelon is key for Milwaukee as they navigate injuries.

Detroit Pistons

Goal: Move up to No. 5. The Pistons are on an impressive winning streak and could contend for a higher seed than projected.

Orlando Magic

Goal: Establish effective offense. Improving their shooting is essential for the Magic to reassert themselves in the playoff picture.

Miami Heat

Goal: Maximize Kel’el Ware’s contributions. In a somewhat tanking mode, the Heat need to focus on player development as the season closes.

Atlanta Hawks

Goal: Ensure Zaccahrie Risacher stays hot. Risacher’s development will be integral in shaping the Hawks’ playoff impact.