Introduction

As the 2025 NBA Playoffs progress, the conference finals are heating up with four teams vying for a spot in the NBA Finals. This year, regardless of which teams emerge victorious, we are guaranteed a Finals matchup that has never been seen before. Let's delve into the potential matchups and analyze which ones could be the most compelling.

1. New York Knicks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves

Top Storyline: Determining the trade winner on the court Additional Storylines: Tom Thibodeau revenge series, star guards vs. wing stoppers Home-court Advantage: Knicks Regular-season Series: Tied (1-1)

A potential Knicks-Wolves Finals would be unprecedented. The teams remade their starting fives with a daring trade on the eve of training camp, and both have reaped the benefits. Karl-Anthony Towns has supercharged the New York offense, while Julius Randle has been an ideal fit in Minnesota. This series would also pit Thibodeau against his former team, adding an extra layer of intrigue.

2. Indiana Pacers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves

Top Storyline: Matchup of top young American guards Additional Storylines: Unlikely finalists, Mike Conley's homecoming Home-court Advantage: Pacers Regular-season Series: Pacers (2-0)

Anthony Edwards vs. Tyrese Haliburton would be a thrilling matchup. Both are under 28 and have shown they can perform on the big stage. This series would also be a homecoming for Mike Conley, who played at Lawrence North High School near Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

3. Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Indiana Pacers

Top Storyline: Battle of international point guards Additional Storylines: SGA's Canadian guard gauntlet, top remaining offense vs. top defense Home-court Advantage: Thunder Regular-season Series: Thunder (2-0)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Tyrese Haliburton would be a clash of international point guards. SGA has been dominant, but Haliburton controls the top remaining offense in the playoffs. This series would test the Thunder's defense, which has been the best in the league.

4. Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New York Knicks

Top Storyline: Brunson vs. OKC's defense Additional Storylines: Isaiah Hartenstein's return Home-court Advantage: Thunder Regular-season Series: Thunder (2-0)

The Thunder seem best equipped to guard Jalen Brunson, with a rotating series of on-ball stoppers. This series would also mark Isaiah Hartenstein's return to New York, adding an interesting subplot to the matchup.

Conclusion

Each potential NBA Finals matchup offers unique storylines and compelling player matchups. Whether it's the Knicks vs. Timberwolves, Pacers vs. Timberwolves, Thunder vs. Pacers, or Thunder vs. Knicks, basketball fans are in for a treat. Stay tuned as the conference finals unfold and we inch closer to an unforgettable NBA Finals.