Lower Seeds Make History in 2025 NBA Playoffs

The 2025 NBA Playoffs have set a new record, as all four lower-seeded teams won their opening games in the second round for the first time in NBA history. Underdog teams such as the Pacers, Warriors, Knicks, and Nuggets gained early momentum, while previously dominant teams like the Celtics, Cavaliers, and Thunder struggled. This postseason has featured an exceptional number of close games, with 30% of contests decided by three points or fewer—double last season's rate and triple the decade's average. Denver's Aaron Gordon delivered clutch moments, including a dunk with no time left and a last-second three-pointer, while the Knicks and Pacers recorded key buzzer-beaters. The surge in upsets and dramatic finishes has made this playoff round one of the most unpredictable and competitive in recent years. The shift has transformed expectations, with underdogs demonstrating resilience and top seeds facing early challenges.