NBA analysts have made their picks for the second round of the playoffs, projecting which teams will move one step closer to the Finals by earning spots in the Eastern and Western Conference finals.
The second round brings a tighter field and higher stakes, with each remaining series carrying major implications for the conference title races. Among the featured matchups is Thunder-Lakers, a series drawing significant attention as both teams look to extend their postseason runs.
The expert selections cover every second-round series, offering a snapshot of how the matchups are viewed entering this stage of the playoffs. With the opening round complete, the focus now shifts to execution, adjustments and which teams can sustain their level of play over a best-of-seven series.
Conference Finals Spots at Stake
Each winner in the second round will advance to the final four of the postseason, where the Eastern and Western Conference championships will be decided. The teams that survive this stage will be just one series away from reaching the NBA Finals.