NBA Recap: Bucks Clinch Playoff Spot, Grizzlies and Timberwolves Secure Wins

The Milwaukee Bucks clinch the last Eastern Conference playoff spot, while the Memphis Grizzlies and Minnesota Timberwolves secure key wins in the NBA.

The Milwaukee Bucks secured the last remaining automatic playoff spot in the NBA's Eastern Conference on Saturday. This achievement came before their 121-115 overtime victory over the Miami Heat. The Bucks' ninth consecutive playoff appearance was guaranteed earlier in the day when the Atlanta Hawks lost 121-105 to the New York Knicks.

Playoff bound for the ninth straight season. pic.twitter.com/eq1g2yVy3y

— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) April 5, 2025

The Atlanta Hawks' loss to the Knicks eliminated them from contention for a direct playoff spot. As a result, they will participate in the four-team play-in tournament, which will determine the final two postseason berths in the East. This development removed pressure from the Bucks, but they still delivered a strong performance against the Miami Heat, winning in overtime.

Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with a triple-double, scoring 36 points, grabbing 15 rebounds, and dishing out 10 assists. Kevin Porter Jr. contributed 24 points from the bench, supporting the team's successful outing against the Heat. The Bucks' victory showcased their determination and skill, solidifying their position in the playoffs.

Three in a row. pic.twitter.com/sEcadODh68

— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) April 6, 2025

The Memphis Grizzlies secured a 109-103 road victory over the Detroit Pistons, with Desmond Bane leading the charge by scoring 38 points, grabbing seven rebounds, and dishing out three assists. Jaren Jackson Jr. added 27 points, while center Zach Edey made a significant impact on defense with 21 rebounds. For the Pistons, Cade Cunningham led the scoring effort with 25 points.

The Minnesota Timberwolves remained in the hunt for a Western Conference playoff spot with a 114-109 win over the depleted Philadelphia 76ers. Anthony Edwards topped the Timberwolves with 37 points, while Rudy Gobert had a standout performance with 23 points, 19 rebounds, three blocks, and two steals. Timberwolves coach Chris Finch praised Gobert's effort, saying, “(Gobert) refuses to let us lose on nights like this when you can argue that we probably should have. All credit to him. We highlighted his performance in the locker room - we need more guys playing with that intentionality.”

Finch's Post-Game Analysis

Despite the win, coach Finch expressed disappointment with his team's overall performance, stating, “We had a bunch of guys who didn't play well today and the energy goes down around that. Our offense is sputtering. We gotta make more energy plays, get guys going.” Finch emphasized the need for more players to show the same level of intentionality and energy as Gobert to secure victories.