NBA Conference Finals Feature Top Guards, Close Series Momentum

The 2025 NBA Conference Finals showcase four teams competing fiercely for a spot in the NBA Finals, featuring the Oklahoma City Thunder against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the West and the Indiana Pacers facing the New York Knicks in the East. The Thunder currently lead 2-0, buoyed by MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's dominant performances, while the Timberwolves, despite early struggles, rely heavily on Anthony Edwards to improve his playmaking and reduce turnovers to stay competitive. In the East, the Pacers hold a 1-0 lead after an overtime win, with Tyrese Haliburton's clutch plays and distribution proving vital, while both the Pacers and Knicks seek their first Finals appearance in decades. Elite perimeter guards like Gilgeous-Alexander, Haliburton, and Edwards have been instrumental in their teams' successes, highlighting the importance of versatile offensive creators in these playoff runs. The Pacers also display unique team chemistry and rituals, such as Aaron Nesmith's toe-tapping shooting cue, which has become a symbolic confidence booster during games. Overall, the Conference Finals are characterized by intense competition, high-level guard play, and historic franchise aspirations, setting the stage for an epic NBA Finals starting June 5.