As the 2025 NBA playoffs heat up, the second round is set and ready to deliver some electrifying matchups. With familiar faces like the Oklahoma City Thunder, Denver Nuggets, and Minnesota Timberwolves vying for supremacy again, the drama is palpable. But in a thrilling twist, the Golden State Warriors have taken the place of the Dallas Mavericks, bringing a new contender into the mix.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets: Who Will Advance?

The Thunder, coming off a bitter loss to the Mavericks in the previous playoffs, are ready to face the Nuggets this time around. With series odds heavily in their favor, the Thunder are viewed as a formidable force.

Experts are almost unanimous in their predictions: Oklahoma City’s depth and swift offense make them the favorites to take the series. Analyst Botkin suggests Thunder in 6, emphasizing their defensive prowess overwhelming Denver's lineup.

Herbert echoes this sentiment, predicting Thunder in 6, but warns that if Denver can keep pace when OKC has off shooting nights, they could snag a couple of wins.

Maloney and Quinn both predict a dominating Thunder performance, assigning them victories in 5 games, with their superior health, home advantage, and defensive strengths overshadowing the Nuggets' key player Nikola Jokić.

Will the Thunder’s depth shine, or can the Nuggets muster a surprise? The stage is set!

Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Golden State Warriors: A Battle of Titans!

In a clash that promises to be a nail-biter, the Timberwolves, led by the dynamic Anthony Edwards, are up against the seasoned Warriors. Series odds hint at a fierce struggle.

Botkin predicts Timberwolves in 6, believing their mix of size and defensive tenacity will challenge Golden State like the Rockets earlier did. Yet, the seasoned experience of the Warriors makes any predictions tricky.

Herbert surprises with a bold call for the Warriors in 7 games, betting on their hard-earned lessons from a tough first round to prep them for this battle.

Maloney and Quinn lean towards Timberwolves in 7, citing their size and physical edge. Both believe Edwards' offensive capabilities could be the tipping point against a Warriors defense that struggles with athletic and physical matchups.

Ward-Henninger, however, believes in the Warriors' clutch performance, anticipating that come crunch time, Curry and his teammates will rise to the occasion. Will experience override the youthful vigor of the Timberwolves? This series is shaping up to be a classic!

As fans gear up for these thrilling matchups, every prediction adds fuel to the fire of excitement surrounding the playoffs. Hold onto your seats because this round is poised to deliver unforgettable moments!