In a peculiar scheduling development, the second round of the 2025 NBA playoffs will commence this Sunday prior to the conclusion of the first round. As anticipation builds, the full bracket remains uncertain as we await the outcome of a decisive Game 7 between the Houston Rockets and the Golden State Warriors. Nevertheless, the Eastern Conference’s matchups are already established.

The top four seeds in the East have successfully advanced: the No. 1 seed Cleveland Cavaliers dispatched the Miami Heat in a convincing four-game sweep, while the Boston Celtics triumphed over the gritty Orlando Magic in five contests. In a closely contested series, the New York Knicks edged out the Detroit Pistons, navigating through six games. Finally, the Indiana Pacers overcame the undermanned Milwaukee Bucks, also in five.

Next up, the Cavaliers face the Pacers, and the Celtics renew their rivalry with the Knicks. Both the Cavaliers and defending champion Celtics are heavily favored to proceed, with experts overwhelmingly predicting no upsets. The only contention among analysts revolves around the number of games each team will require to advance.

No. 1 Cleveland Cavaliers vs. No. 4 Indiana Pacers

Series odds via BetMGM: Cavaliers -500, Pacers +375
Botkin: Cavs in 5
The Pacers will resist helping off Cleveland’s shooters, and while they can score against the Cavaliers’ defense, they won’t win enough games.

Herbert: Cavs in 5
This matchup leans on the Cavaliers’ dominance, overshadowing the Pacers’ defensive improvements.

Maloney: Cavs in 6
The Pacers are underrated; however, the Cavaliers have been formidable throughout the playoffs.

Quinn: Cavs in 5
Cleveland’s approach remains aggressive, with strategies that have proven effective in prior rounds.

Ward-Henninger: Cavs in 7
The Pacers are a formidable foe, making this series potentially very competitive. Yet Cleveland’s defense may make the crucial difference.

Wimbish: Cavs in 6
Despite Indiana’s previous performance, Cleveland’s depth poses a strong challenge.

No. 2 Boston Celtics vs. No. 3 New York Knicks

Series odds via BetMGM: Celtics -800, Knicks +550
Botkin: Celtics in 6
The Knicks are built to counter the Celtics, but their defense leaves room for doubts.

Herbert: Celtics in 5
The Celtics’ game against the Knicks is clear, despite potential shooting concerns.

Maloney: Celtics in 6
Boston’s comfortable history against New York in previous seasons augurs well for their chances to advance again.

Quinn: Celtics in 5
If healthy, Boston’s powerful offense should overwhelm New York’s inconsistencies.

Ward-Henninger: Celtics in 5
The Knicks will find it extremely challenging against Boston’s comprehensive defensive strategies.

Wimbish: Celtics in 6
The excitement of this historic rivalry may inspire strong performances, but Boston remains a formidable and determined opponent.