Warriors Face Rockets After Play-In; Heat Also Advance

The Golden State Warriors, bolstered by the midseason acquisition of Jimmy Butler, advanced to the NBA playoffs after defeating the Memphis Grizzlies in the Play-In Tournament, setting up a first-round series against the second-seeded Houston Rockets led by Amen Thompson. The Miami Heat also clinched a playoff berth through the Play-In Tournament. Despite Houston's youth and Thompson's defensive reputation, analysts see the Warriors' playoff experience as a potential advantage. The Western Conference is extremely competitive this year, with lower-seeded teams like the Warriors receiving favorable betting lines. The Oklahoma City Thunder, who finished with the league's best record, face the Grizzlies and would have home-court advantage throughout the Finals if they advance. The NBA Finals are scheduled to start on June 5, with all games broadcast on ABC.