NBA Playoffs Begin with Lakers Favored Over Timberwolves

With the completion of the Play-In Tournament, the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery odds are set, with the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, and Charlotte Hornets each holding a 14% chance to secure the top pick and select consensus prospect Cooper Flagg; their combined odds are 42%, leaving a 58% chance for one of the other 11 lottery teams to win. Tiebreakers and traded picks, such as the Suns' pick going to the Rockets and the Hawks' pick to the Spurs, will influence the final draft order. Meanwhile, the 2025 NBA Playoffs have begun, featuring matchups like the Lakers versus the Timberwolves, with betting odds favoring the Lakers to advance, particularly given their home-court advantage. Former North Carolina player Cole Anthony is expected to play a significant bench role for the Orlando Magic as they face the reigning champion Boston Celtics in the first round, though an upset is considered unlikely. These developments set the stage for a pivotal offseason and postseason in the NBA, combining the anticipation of the draft lottery with high-stakes playoff battles.