NBA Playoffs: Your Quick Guide to the Postseason Action

The NBA playoffs are the most exciting two weeks of the year for basketball fans. Teams that survived the regular season now battle in a best‑of‑seven series to earn a shot at the championship. If you’re wondering when the games start, which teams are hot, and how to watch without missing a beat, you’re in the right place.

When Does the Playoffs Start and How Is It Structured?

The first round kicks off in mid‑April and runs through early May. The top eight teams from each conference earn a spot, with the No. 1 seed facing the No. 8 seed, No. 2 vs. No. 7, and so on. Every series is best‑of‑seven, so the first team to win four games moves on. After the first round, the winners meet in the conference semifinals, then the conference finals, and finally the NBA Finals in early June.

Key Storylines to Watch

Every year the playoffs bring a mix of veteran grit and rookie sparkle. Look out for teams with strong defensive cores, like the Milwaukee Bucks, and those riding a wave of offensive firepower, such as the Golden State Warriors. Keep an eye on players who stepped up during the regular season – a breakout star can turn a whole series around.

If you love a good underdog story, watch the lower seeds. History shows a No. 7 or No. 8 seed can surprise a higher‑ranked opponent, especially when they’ve got a hot shooter or a dominant big man. These upsets make the postseason thrilling and unpredictable.

In addition to team matchups, personal rivalries add extra drama. Think about the long‑standing battles between LeBron James and Kevin Durant or the Jayson Tatum vs. Giannis Antetokounmpo duels. When these stars meet, the games get extra intensity, and the highlight reels are worth the watch.

For fans who love stats, the playoffs are a goldmine. Look at a team's bench scoring, turnover margin, and three‑point percentage. Those numbers often decide tight games. A team that can stay disciplined and limit mistakes usually goes deeper.

Now, how do you actually watch the games? If you have a cable package, ESPN, TNT and NBA TV cover most of the action. For streaming, services like NBA League Pass let you see every game live, and some platforms, such as Hulu Live, YouTube TV, and Sling TV, carry the same channels. Make sure you check local blackout rules – they can affect which games are available in your area.

Want to stay informed without watching every minute? Follow the official NBA app for live scores, play‑by‑play updates, and short video highlights. Twitter and Reddit threads also break down game moments in real‑time, which is great if you’re watching on a break.

Finally, set up a viewing schedule. Write down the dates and times for your favorite teams, note the TV channel or streaming link, and sync it with your calendar. That way you won’t miss a buzzer‑beater because you forgot the start time.

Whether you’re a die‑hard fan or just tuning in for the excitement, the NBA playoffs deliver drama, skill, and unforgettable moments. Use this guide to stay on top of the schedule, track the biggest storylines, and choose the best way to watch. Get ready – the road to the championship starts now!