The NBA is more balanced than ever, making the title race wide open. In the past, dynasties dominated, but that era appears to be over—no team has gone back-to-back since Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry powered the Warriors to consecutive championships in 2017 and 2018. Since then, six different franchises have lifted the trophy in six seasons. But who will make the 2025 NBA Playoffs this season, and who are in danger of missing out?
The Boston Celtics are looking to repeat this year after a relatively smooth path to victory last season. They’re still one of the league’s top teams but haven’t pulled away from the pack yet, especially after a sluggish January.
Now that the trade deadline has passed, teams are locked in for the playoff push.
Three Teams Ready To Make 2025 NBA Playoffs
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder are playing at an incredibly high level, showing dominance on both ends of the floor. Their defense is relentless, constantly disrupting opponents and turning those opportunities into fast-break points. They protect the ball well while capitalizing on mistakes, making them tough to beat.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the heart of the team, dazzling defenders with his creativity and shot-making ability, making a strong case as the league’s best guard. Despite dealing with injuries, including Chet Holmgren’s recent return, the team hasn’t missed a beat.
With Jalen Williams playing at an All-Star level and a strong supporting cast featuring Isaiah Hartenstein, Aaron Wiggins, and Cason Wallace off the bench, the Thunder have depth and versatility that most teams envy. They’re loaded with talent and look like serious contenders.
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2. Boston Celtics
Despite a slightly uneven January, the Boston Celtics remain a top contender for the championship. They excel on both ends of the court, efficiently scoring while locking down opponents on defense. Their offensive success is built on creating high-quality three-point shots and minimizing turnovers.
Boston Celtics leads the league in three-point attempts and makes, making them a constant threat from beyond the arc. Their ball security is exceptional, helping them maximize scoring opportunities. Defensively, they’re anchored by Kristaps Porzingis as a shot-blocker, supported by four strong perimeter defenders who create stops and fuel fast-break points.
The Celtics have a knack for decisive runs, shutting down opponents on defense, and quickly capitalizing with three-pointers. They dominate when the long ball is falling, boasting an impressive record in games where they hit 20 or more threes. In a league where repeating as champions is challenging, Boston has all the tools to pull it off.
Also Read: Top 5 NBA Championship Contenders This Season
3. Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavaliers burst onto the scene with a cav, establishing themselves as serious championship contenders. Their success has been fueled by the league’s most potent offense, known for accurate shooting and excellent ball security. A strategic trade deadline move also bolstered their roster, positioning them for a deep playoff run.
Cleveland excels at scoring efficiently from both inside and beyond the arc while rarely committing turnovers. Their dynamic backcourt duo of Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland provides elite shot creation, giving them an edge most teams can’t match. Evan Mobley’s growth into an All-Star caliber player has solidified his partnership with Jarrett Allen in the paint, enhancing their inside game.
Cleveland excels at scoring efficiently from both inside and beyond the arc while rarely committing turnovers. Their dynamic backcourt duo of Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland provides elite shot creation, giving them an edge most teams can’t match. Evan Mobley’s growth into an All-Star caliber player has solidified his partnership with Jarrett Allen in the paint, enhancing their inside game.
Three Teams In Danger Of Missing 2025 NBA Playoffs
Philadelphia 76ers
Joel Embiid played 39 games last season due to a knee injury and is on track for just 26 games this season with the same issue. Despite this, he played in the Olympics and got a $193 million extension.
The team is struggling, partly because they rely heavily on him. Investing so much in a player with ongoing injury problems is risky, and his absence exposes their lack of a solid backup plan. The situation raises questions about the team’s long-term strategy.
Charlotte Hornets
LaMelo Ball is taking 25.4 shots per 36 minutes—the most in 50 years—and dominates his team’s possessions more than anyone else in the league.
In this setup, it’s hard for teammates to grow or find rhythm, as the offense revolves almost entirely around him. Young players need touches and opportunities to develop, but in this ball-dominant environment, they’re stuck watching or adjusting to scraps. It raises questions about how the team can grow as a unit when one player is monopolizing the game.
New Orleans Pelicans
The Pelicans likely expected success, given they’re paying four players around $30 million each while grooming young talent behind them. That’s the blueprint for building a contender.
But the results don’t match the investment. Despite the high payroll and promising prospects, the team’s performance isn’t clicking. It’s clear the current approach isn’t working as planned, and it might be time to reassess the strategy before the window of opportunity closes.
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