Eastern Conference Shakeup

Pacers Stun Cavaliers

The Indiana Pacers have taken a shocking 3-1 series lead against top-seeded Cleveland, fueled by Tyrese Haliburton's 14.2 assists per game and Bennedict Mathurin's 28.4-point playoff average. Their Game 4 41-point halftime lead set a modern playoff record, exposing Cleveland's defensive flaws.

Knicks Outmuscle Celtics

New York's physical play has rattled the defending champions, with Jalen Brunson scoring 28.3 PPG and Julius Randle's Game 3 triple-double (24/10/12). Boston's star duo of Tatum and Brown are shooting just 42% combined against the Knicks' aggressive defense.

Western Conference Battles

Thunder-Nuggets Tied 2-2

Oklahoma City's 149-106 Game 3 win showcased their explosive potential, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's playoff-best 32.1 PPG. Nikola Jokić continues his dominance (27.5/12.3/9.8) but faces Oklahoma's deepest roster since their 2012 Finals run.

Wolves Take Charge Without Curry

Anthony Edwards' 36-point Game 3 performance propelled Minnesota to a 2-1 lead as Golden State misses Stephen Curry (hamstring). Rudy Gobert's 13.4 rebounds per game anchor the Wolves' size advantage against the depleted Warriors.

Critical Factors Shaping the Playoffs

• Underdog Revolution: 5 of 8 series feature lower-seeded teams leading
• New Generation Rising: 7 of top 10 scorers are under 26 years old
• Health Crisis: 12 All-Stars have missed playoff games due to injuries

Must-Watch Matchups

May 13: Pacers vs Cavaliers (IND leads 3-1)
May 12: Celtics vs Knicks (NY leads 2-1)
May 14: Thunder vs Nuggets (Series tied 2-2)

Three Championship Takeaways

• Indiana's 42% three-point shooting leads all playoff teams
• OKC remains betting favorite at +130 despite Denver's resilience
• Anthony Edwards joins Kobe and LeBron as only players with 35+ PPG in playoffs before age 25