The NBA Playoffs are where regular-season stories get answered — who’s clutch, who folds, and who becomes a legend. If you want quick, useful info on format, dates, how to stream games, and the biggest storylines to track, this page gets you there fast.
Sixteen teams make the playoffs — eight from each conference — after a short play-in tournament decides the final seeds. Series are best-of-seven, and the rounds go: First Round, Conference Semifinals, Conference Finals, then the NBA Finals. Home-court usually follows a 2-2-1-1-1 format, so the higher seed gets Games 1, 2, 5 and 7 when needed.
Timing: the postseason usually starts in mid-April and runs into June for the Finals. Expect back-to-back game nights and travel days between series. Keep an eye on the play-in results: they can reshuffle matchups and change who has home-court advantage.
Where to watch depends on your country. In the US, national broadcasters like TNT, ESPN and ABC carry big games. Worldwide, the NBA League Pass streams nearly every game live. If you’re outside those regions, check local sports channels or streaming services. For quick updates, use the NBA app, follow team social feeds, or check live boxes on ESPN and trusted sports sites.
Want play-by-play on the go? Turn on push alerts from the NBA app or score apps like theScore. For injury and lineup updates, follow beat reporters on Twitter/X and official team accounts — they post changes long before TV graphics catch up.
Looking for deeper reads? We cover trade talk and previews — for example, check our pieces on Luka Doncic's trade rumors and the Lakers vs. Wizards matchup for context on how rosters and form can shape a playoff run.
Betting or fantasy? Pay attention to minutes, injuries, and back-to-back schedules. Coaches tighten rotations in the playoffs, so bench players in fantasy can see big swings. If you bet, shop for odds across sportsbooks and track injury reports up to tip-off.
Who to watch: focus on star drivers like super scorers, elite playmakers, and defensive anchors. Playoff teams win through two things: consistent scoring and reliable defense. Watch how teams adjust — switching defenses, attacking mismatches, or protecting the paint can decide a series.
Quick checklist before a big game: 1) Confirm tip time and broadcaster in your region. 2) Check injury reports and probable lineups. 3) Know travel days (they affect rest). 4) Set alerts for close games and overtime.
Want regular updates? Bookmark this tag and come back for previews, odds, injury news, and postgame breakdowns. The playoffs move fast — a single injury or tactical switch can flip a series overnight. Stay tuned, and enjoy the best basketball of the year.
In a thrilling NBA Playoff encounter, the Dallas Mavericks defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 105-101. Key performances by P.J. Washington and Luka Doncic assisted in their critical win. The Mavericks' defensive strategy played a pivotal role, leading the series with 2-1.
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