It’s already been an eventful start to the NBA’s postseason.
We’ve seen five of the eight first-round matchups split the first two games, with huge performances from players with extensive playoff experience — including former champions Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kawhi Leonard — and from young stars such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Cade Cunningham.
It all sets up for an intriguing second weekend of the playoffs — with three games Friday and all eight series in action over Saturday and Sunday — with the potential of some teams getting swept if they don’t grab a win.
With that in mind, here’s a look at where things stand in each first-round series and what to watch as we await which eight teams will advance to the conference semifinals.
Jump to an East series:
Bucks-Pacers: Can anyone help Giannis?
Knicks-Pistons: Expect a long series?
Cavs, Celtics in control: Should they worry?
Jump to a West series:
Nuggets-Clippers: Peak Kawhi is back?
Rockets-Warriors: Butler’s injury the X-factor?
Lakers-Timberwolves: Which star will rise up?
Thunder vs. Grizzlies: A collapse spells doom?
