Particle.news

Download on the App Store

NBA Playoffs See Underdog Triumphs and Star Performances as Series Tighten

The Pistons, Clippers, and Timberwolves level their series at 1–1, driven by standout efforts from Cade Cunningham, Kawhi Leonard, and Anthony Edwards.

Apr 19, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts after taking an elbow from Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) in the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images/File Photo
Image
Clippers star Kawhi Leonard celebrates as time runs out in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series against the Denver Nuggets on Monday night in Denver. Leonard had 39 points on 15-of-19 shooting to lead the Clippers to a 105-102 win that evened the best-of-seven series. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Overview

  • The Detroit Pistons ended a 15-game postseason losing streak with a 100–94 victory over the New York Knicks in Game 2, led by Cade Cunningham’s 33 points and Dennis Schroder’s clutch three-pointer.
  • Kawhi Leonard scored 39 points on 15-of-19 shooting to lead the Los Angeles Clippers to a 105–102 win over the Denver Nuggets, evening the series at 1–1 as it shifts to Los Angeles.
  • The Minnesota Timberwolves dominated the Lakers in Game 1, showcasing superior physicality and balanced contributions, including Anthony Edwards’ 22 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists.
  • Nikola Jokic recorded his 19th career playoff triple-double in the Nuggets’ Game 2 loss, while the Clippers capitalized on turnovers and Leonard’s decisive plays to secure the win.
  • All three highlighted series are now tied 1–1, with teams preparing adjustments ahead of pivotal Game 3 matchups later this week.