Magic Johnson has posted his full playoff outlook on social media, making his picks for each Eastern and Western Conference series ahead of the 2025 NBA Playoffs.
The Hall of Famer expects the New York Knicks to defeat the Detroit Pistons in a physical seven-game series, with Karl-Anthony Towns as the key factor for New York.
Johnson pointed to Jalen Brunson versus Cade Cunningham as a critical matchup, and said Detroit will need big performances from both Tobias Harris and Malik Beasley to stay competitive.
In another Eastern Conference battle, Johnson favored the Indiana Pacers over the Milwaukee Bucks, especially if Damian Lillard remains out.
He acknowledged Giannis Antetokounmpo as the best player in the series but emphasized that the Bucks need strong contributions from Bobby Portis, Brook Lopez, and Kyle Kuzma.
For Indiana, Johnson said Tyrese Haliburton must average a triple-double and get help from Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner.
He also predicted the Boston Celtics would advance past the Orlando Magic, saying the defending champions might drop one game but should otherwise control the series.
In the West, Johnson described the Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Clippers series as a potential seven-game thriller with no clear favorite.
He believes Nikola Jokic will dominate again, but noted the importance of playoff production from Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon.
On the Clippers’ side, he praised Kawhi Leonard’s return to form and said James Harden had one of the best seasons among all guards.
Johnson added that Ivica Zubac and Norman Powell have played at an All-Star level and could tip the series in the Clippers’ favor.
Turning to the Lakers, Johnson picked his former team to beat the Minnesota Timberwolves in six games, though he expressed concern about trying to stop Anthony Edwards.
He said LeBron James and Luka Doncic must lead the charge, and named Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura as essential contributors.
The Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets matchup, according to Johnson, will be full of scoring, with Alperen Sengun as the most unstoppable force.
He said Houston’s athleticism—led by Sengun, Jalen Green, and Amen Thompson—will challenge Golden State, but believes the Warriors can win in seven if Jonathan Kuminga steps up.
Johnson also pointed to Steph Curry’s shooting and Jimmy Butler’s playoff pedigree as vital for Golden State’s success.
He closed by saying he’ll give his picks for the Oklahoma City Thunder and Cleveland Cavaliers after their opponents are finalized.
