The Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets series continues to intensify, with a notable incident in Game 5 that underscored the escalating tension. Pat Spencer was ejected for headbutting Alperen Sengun late in the game, following a scuffle that included Moses Moody and Trayce Jackson-Davis. Despite Spencer's earlier contributions, which included 11 points and a surge for the Warriors, the Rockets secured a decisive win, shifting the series back to the Bay Area.

Andrew Nembhard is making waves in the NBA playoffs, playing a pivotal role for the Indiana Pacers. The former Gonzaga standout delivered a stellar performance in Game 5 against the Milwaukee Bucks, contributing 15 points, six rebounds, six assists, and three steals, leading the Pacers to a dramatic overtime victory and a series win.

Nembhard's recent playoff performance has showcased his growth as a player, averaging nearly 18 points per game over his last ten outings. His ability to perform under pressure, combined with a strong shooting percentage, has solidified his position as one of the league's reliable young guards. As the Pacers advance to the second round to face the Cleveland Cavaliers, his continued development will be critical to their playoff success.

The Cleveland Cavaliers made history by executing the most lopsided series victory in NBA playoff history, sweeping the Miami Heat with a staggering 138-83 win. This game set records for both the largest playoff margin in Cavaliers history and the most significant playoff loss for the Heat. Cleveland dominated throughout the series, showcasing an impressive offensive and defensive performance, outscoring Miami by a cumulative 122 points over four games.

Donovan Mitchell led the charge with 22 points, while Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen contributed significantly. The Cavaliers' defense proved stifling, limiting Miami's Tyler Herro to a nightmarish -44 plus-minus, reflecting a team effort that capitalized on every opportunity. Cleveland's blend of strong bench scoring and suffocating defense proved too much for the Heat.

The Orlando Magic suffered a heartbreaking 107-98 loss to the Boston Celtics in Game 4, a defeat that shifted the series' momentum. Despite a valiant effort throughout the season and a win in Game 3, the Magic faced the harsh reality of playoff basketball against the defending champions. The Celtics, showcasing their championship experience, executed their game plan with precision and determination, overpowering the Magic both offensively and defensively. Jayson Tatum's brilliance, scoring 37 points with 14 rebounds, along with Jaylen Brown’s 21 points, highlighted Boston's dominance.

Orlando’s Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, who scored 31 and 24 points respectively, couldn’t match the firepower of the Celtics. The series now stands at 3-1, with the Magic needing to overcome a steep challenge to avoid elimination. Coach Jamahl Mosley emphasized the need for resilience as they head to Boston for Game 5, showcasing a belief system that their season has built amid adversity.

With Joe Dumars now at the helm of the New Orleans Pelicans as president of basketball operations, the team is looking to rebuild with a renewed focus on their front office. Dumars has brought in Troy Weaver as the senior vice president of basketball operations, marking a significant shift for both the Pelicans and the former Pistons executive. Weaver's previous experience includes managing the Pistons, where he built a promising young core that recently broke a lengthy playoff win drought.

After a disappointing 2023-24 season, the Pistons are now in a rebuilding phase, and Weaver's track record suggests he could replicate that success in New Orleans. His tenure in Detroit was characterized by significant challenges, including injuries to key players like Cade Cunningham, but also highlights such as the emergence of Isaiah Stewart as a defensive cornerstone. The Pelicans are hoping Weaver can identify and nurture talent, ultimately guiding the franchise to its first championship.