Despite losing Game 1 of the NBA Western Conference Finals to the Spurs, it was a dramatic game in front of the home crowd in Oklahoma City, going into double overtime. The Thunder remains the team to beat as the NBA Conference Championships get underway.
The Thunder’s offensive efficiency has been unmatched through two rounds, powered by elite ball security, improved offensive rebounding, and consistent scoring even when Shai Gilgeous-Alexander rests. Chet Holmgren’s postseason efficiency has elevated the Thunder’s second units, giving them a rare advantage when their star guard is off the floor.
Defensively, Oklahoma City has not been as dominant as during the regular season, but their turnover creation continues to fuel transition scoring. With Jalen Williams expected back, the Thunder begin the conference finals rested and fully equipped for a physical, tactical series against San Antonio.
San Antonio’s defense sets the tone as the Spurs return to the conference finals
San Antonio’s path has been tougher, but their defensive profile remains the best of the postseason. They have consistently held opponents well below their regular‑season scoring averages, dominating the paint and limiting free‑throw opportunities. Victor Wembanyama’s rim protection continues to anchor everything, even as his minutes fluctuate due to foul trouble, physical play and game flow.
The Spurs’ perimeter shooting has been a stabilizing force, with Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper providing efficient spacing. Their biggest challenge against Oklahoma City will be the possession game, as the Thunder generate more shot opportunities than any team left in the field. Limiting live‑ball turnovers will be essential if San Antonio wants to control tempo and keep OKC out of transition.
New York storms into the East Finals with historic point differential
The Knicks have been the most dominant team in the East, combining elite scoring efficiency with a defense that has held up even when opponents target Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson in ball‑screen actions. New York’s bench has been the best of the postseason, consistently widening leads and controlling the glass.
OG Anunoby’s health remains the biggest storyline entering the Cleveland series. His return would restore New York’s preferred perimeter matchups, but even without him, the Knicks have shown they can overwhelm teams with pace, spacing and physicality. Their eight days of rest could be a major advantage as the conference finals begin.
Cleveland survives two seven‑game battles to reach the conference finals
The Cavaliers arrive battle‑tested after surviving back‑to‑back seven‑game series. Their offense has been the biggest separator in wins versus losses, with Evan Mobley’s efficiency in the paint serving as a key indicator of their success. Cleveland has also been one of the league’s best late‑clock teams, a trait that becomes even more valuable deep in the postseason.
Rebounding will define their matchup with New York. Cleveland has been the top offensive‑rebounding team of the playoffs but ranks near the bottom in defensive rebounding. Against a Knicks team that thrives on second‑chance points, controlling the glass may determine whether Cleveland can keep games close and avoid early deficits.
