2025 NBA Play-In Tournament: Matchups Set as Heat, Mavericks Advance
Before the 2025 NBA Playoffs officially begin, eight teams are battling in the NBA Play-In Tournament to claim the final playoff spots.
On Wednesday, the Miami Heat crushed the Chicago Bulls to stay in the race, while the Dallas Mavericks secured a clutch win over the Sacramento Kings. Tuesday night saw the Orlando Magic take down the Atlanta Hawks, and the Golden State Warriors edge out the Memphis Grizzlies.
Friday’s matchups are set: Heat vs. Hawks and Mavericks vs. Grizzlies.
Mavericks Defeat Kings 120-106 to Advance in 2025 NBA Play-In Tournament
The Dallas Mavericks silenced critics with a dominant 120-106 win over the Sacramento Kings in the 2025 NBA Play-In Tournament. Despite ongoing debates surrounding a February trade, Dallas looked sharp behind tough defense and efficient shooting—even without injured star Kyrie Irving.
Anthony Davis led the charge with 27 points, nine rebounds, and three blocks, improving his play-in record to 4-0. The Mavericks now move on to face the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday for the final No. 8 seed in the NBA playoffs. With Ja Morant possibly dealing with an ankle injury, that matchup could be key.
For the Kings, it was a disappointing end to a rocky season. After trading De’Aaron Fox and parting ways with coach Mike Brown, ESPN reports the franchise is also moving on from GM Monte McNair.