The first round of the NBA Playoffs continues on Thursday with another three-game slate that will get underway from 9:00am AEST. The headliner is Game 2 between the Warriors and the Rockets which is set for an 11:30am AEST start time. We’re coming off a perfect 3-0 day with our tips on Wednesday to continue our hot form, and we have you covered with our best bets for all three games on Thursday below!
NBA Playoffs Betting Tips: Thursday, April 24th 2025
Orlando Magic at Boston Celtics (9:00am AEST)
The Boston Celtics will aim to build on a commanding Game 1 performance when they host the Orlando Magic once again in Game 2 of their first-round series. After falling behind by one at half-time, Boston turned up the intensity in the second half, dominating the third quarter and cruising to a 103–86 win. Derrick White led the way with 30 points, hitting seven shots from beyond the arc, while Jayson Tatum added 17 points and 14 rebounds. With Payton Pritchard contributing 19 off the bench, the Celtics showed the kind of depth and composure that has defined their season.
Orlando struggled to keep pace despite a strong showing from Paolo Banchero, who scored 36 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, and Franz Wagner, who added 23. Outside of their star duo, however, the Magic lacked scoring support and were plagued by 15 turnovers and poor perimeter shooting. They were outplayed physically and tactically, with Boston’s defence applying constant pressure and limiting opportunities.
With their depth, home-court advantage, and strong defensive foundations, the Celtics are in a strong position to take a 2–0 lead. If they maintain their level from Game 1, they should record another comfortable win before the series heads to Florida.
Celtics -10.5
$1.90 (1.5 Units)
Miami Heat at Cleveland Cavaliers (9:30am AEST)
The Cleveland Cavaliers will look to take a 2–0 lead in their first-round series when they host the Miami Heat again in Game 2. The Cavaliers were dominant in Game 1, cruising to a 121–100 win behind a strong all-round performance. Their offence looked sharp throughout, with efficient ball movement and consistent scoring across the floor. Cleveland’s defence also caused problems for Miami, forcing a number of turnovers and limiting easy looks inside the paint.
The Heat struggled to contain the Cavaliers’ scoring, particularly in the second half where they were outpaced and outmuscled. While Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro combined for 45 points, Miami’s zone defence was picked apart, and they had little response to the Cavaliers’ balanced attack. Cleveland’s ball pressure and rebounding edge gave them control for much of the contest, and their depth proved decisive in the final quarter.
With home-court advantage and clear momentum, the Cavaliers are well-placed to repeat their dominance in Game 2. If they maintain their defensive intensity and shooting rhythm, another comfortable victory seems likely. Miami will need major adjustments to stay in touch, but Cleveland’s form suggests they are in firm control of the series as it prepares to shift to Florida.
Cavaliers -11.5
$1.85 (1.5 Units)
Golden State Warriors at Houston Rockets (11:30am AEST)
The Houston Rockets will look to respond in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series when they host the Golden State Warriors again, following a 95–85 loss in the opener. Houston struggled offensively, shooting just 39.1% from the field and committing 17 turnovers, which ultimately proved costly. Alperen Şengün was the standout performer with 26 points and nine rebounds, but the rest of the team failed to find rhythm. Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet combined for only 17 points, shooting just 7-of-34 overall.
Golden State capitalised on Houston’s mistakes, controlling the tempo and using their experience to great effect. They out-rebounded the Rockets, moved the ball well, and were more clinical in key moments. The Warriors also defended the perimeter effectively, limiting Houston’s outside shooting and forcing difficult looks in the half-court.
Heading into Game 2, the Rockets will aim to clean up their execution and play with greater urgency. With home-court advantage still in their favour, Houston will look to push the pace, attack the basket more consistently, and get improved production from their backcourt. If they can cut down on turnovers and find offensive balance, the Rockets are well placed to bounce back and level the series before heading to California.
Rockets -3
$1.90 (2 Units)
