Round 1 of the 2024-25 NBA Playoffs continues this Thursday with a double-header consisting of two Game 5’s. First up we’ll see the Rockets host the Warriors from 9:30am AEST, followed by the Timberwolves at Lakers from 12:00pm AEST. Of course, we have you covered with free previews and best bets for both games below!
NBA Playoffs Betting Tips: Thursday, May 1st 2025
Golden State Warriors at Houston Rockets (9:30am AEST)
The Golden State Warriors come into Game 5 with a commanding 3-1 series lead, showing their experience and composure throughout. Golden State have been the more efficient side offensively, shooting the ball well from both the field and from deep. Their defence has also tightened at key moments, forcing turnovers and controlling the pace of play. With the Warriors making big plays when needed and limiting Houston's fast breaks, they have been able to keep the Rockets chasing for most of the series.
Still, Houston return home with their backs firmly against the wall and plenty of motivation to extend the series. The Rockets have been excellent at Toyota Center all season, playing with more energy and shooting at a much higher clip at home. Their offence has been fluid when they move the ball quickly, and their defensive intensity typically lifts when facing elimination. Houston’s ability to generate clean three-point looks and push the tempo should be a major factor as they fight to stay alive.
Facing a must-win situation, Houston are expected to bring their best effort of the series. With desperation on their side and the benefit of home-court advantage, the Rockets should rise to the occasion and cover the -3.5 spread.
Rockets -3.5
$1.90 (1.5 Units)
Minnesota Timberwolves at Los Angeles Lakers (12:00pm AEST)
The Minnesota Timberwolves head into Game 5 with a 3-1 series lead after outplaying the Los Angeles Lakers in key moments. Minnesota have been the more consistent side, using their strong defence and efficient half-court offence to control the pace. Their ability to limit second-chance opportunities and force the Lakers into tough shots has been a major reason they have the upper hand. With momentum on their side, the Timberwolves will look to close out the series, but playing at Crypto.com Arena presents a different challenge.
The Lakers are facing a do-or-die situation and are expected to respond with urgency and energy. Los Angeles have been a much stronger team at home all season, feeding off the crowd and pushing the tempo when needed. Their ability to get to the free-throw line and attack the paint should be key factors in Game 5. Expect the Lakers to increase the physicality on defence, tighten up their rotations like we saw in Game 4, and play with far greater intensity knowing there is no margin for error.
With their season on the line and home-court advantage in their favour, the Lakers should deliver a strong performance. Look for Los Angeles to show more fight, execute better, and use their experience to cover the -5.5 spread and extend the series.
Lakers -5.5
$1.92 (1.5 Units)
