Cleveland Cavaliers playoff 2025: Everything You Need to Know

The Cavaliers Playoff 2025 journey is about to begin, and Cleveland fans are eager to see if their team can make a deep postseason run. With a strong defensive unit and star power, the Cavs are ready to compete. Whether you’re looking for the full playoff schedule or want to secure your tickets, this guide provides everything you need to know. Stay updated on key matchups, dates, and ticket availability to experience the excitement of NBA playoff basketball at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse!

Cavaliers Playoff 2025 Schedule: Key Dates & Matchups

The Cavaliers Playoff 2025 campaign is set to begin, and anticipation is building among fans. Currently ranked as the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference, Cleveland is in a strong position for a competitive postseason.

The NBA Playoffs 2025 officially start on April 19, leading up to the highly anticipated NBA Finals beginning on June 5. With a solid mix of young talent and veteran leadership, the Cavs have the tools to go far. Below, we explore their potential first-round opponents and key dates.

First Round: Potential Opponent & Game Dates

As the current fourth seed, the Cleveland Cavaliers are projected to face the fifth-seeded Indiana Pacers in the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs. However, depending on the final standings, this matchup could change before the postseason begins.

Potential Opponents

With the Cavaliers currently holding the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference, their first-round matchup is still undecided. Several teams remain in contention for the lower playoff spots, and each presents different challenges.

Here’s a closer look at the potential teams Cleveland might encounter in the opening round of the Cavaliers Playoff 2025 campaign.

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers have built an up-tempo offense around Tyrese Haliburton. Their ability to push the pace and knock down three-pointers could force Cleveland into a high-scoring series.

Philadelphia 76ers

If the 76ers fall to a lower seed, a matchup with Cleveland would be intense. Joel Embiid dominates in the paint, and containing him would be the Cavs’ biggest challenge.

Atlanta Hawks

The Hawks rely on their offensive star, Trae Young. His scoring and playmaking can break down defenses, making Atlanta a potential wildcard opponent.

Wild-Card Scenarios

The Miami Heat and Orlando Magic could also be first-round foes. The Heat’s playoff experience and physical defense, combined with the Magic’s rising young stars, make both teams difficult matchups.

Approximate First-Round Schedule

Note: These dates are approximate and subject to change based on NBA scheduling and series outcomes.

• Game 1: April 19 (Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse)
• Game 2: April 21 (Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse)
• Game 3: April 24 (Away Game)
• Game 4: April 26 (Away Game)
• Game 5 (if necessary): April 29 (Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse)
• Game 6 (if necessary): May 1 (Away Game)
• Game 7 (if necessary): May 3 (Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse)

Key Factors for Success

• Elite Perimeter Defense: The Cavaliers must limit opposing star guards and force tough shots.
• Paint Control: Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen need to dominate the boards and protect the rim.
• Donovan Mitchell’s Leadership: Mitchell must carry the scoring load and deliver in clutch moments.

The Eastern Conference Finals games will air on TNT, with official scheduling determined once the playoff bracket is finalized.

NBA Finals 2025: The Ultimate Goal

The NBA Finals 2025, presented by YouTube TV, will begin on June 5, with Game 1 airing on ABC. If the Cavaliers reach this stage, they will face the champion of the Western Conference.

Potential Western Conference Opponents

Los Angeles Lakers

With Luka Dončić now leading the Lakers, they remain a serious contender for the championship. The Cavaliers would need to use their defensive structure to slow down Dončić’s playmaking and scoring.

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder’s young core, featuring Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, plays a fast-paced, high-energy style. Cleveland’s defensive presence inside could be the key to disrupting OKC’s offensive flow.

Denver Nuggets

The reigning champions, led by Nikola Jokić, are always a formidable Finals opponent. Slowing down their high-IQ ball movement and containing Jokić’s impact will be Cleveland’s biggest challenge.

NBA Finals Schedule (Tentative)

• Game 1: June 5 (Home Court of the Higher Seed)
• Game 2: June 7
• Game 3: June 10
• Game 4: June 12
• Game 5 (if necessary): June 14
• Game 6 (if necessary): June 17
• Game 7 (if necessary): June 20

The Cavaliers are determined to make their mark on the 2025 NBA Playoffs. With a combination of elite defense, size, and star power, Cleveland is ready to compete for an NBA title.

Cavaliers Playoff 2025 Ticket Prices

With an impressive regular season, the Cleveland Cavaliers are poised for a deep playoff run. Ticket prices will depend on the round, opponent, and seat location.

First Round Ticket Prices

The first round offers fans an affordable way to experience playoff basketball at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse:

• Upper Level Seats: Starting around $90 – $220 per ticket.
• Lower Level Seats: Typically range from $300 – $700.
• Courtside & VIP: Premium seats can go from $1,500 – $4,000+.

Conference Semifinals Ticket Prices

As the Cavaliers move deeper into the playoffs, ticket prices are expected to increase:

• Upper Level Seats: Around $180 – $400 per ticket.
• Lower Level Seats: Typically between $600 – $1,500.
• Courtside & VIP: Prices can start at $4,000 and exceed $9,000+ for premium seating.

Eastern Conference Finals Ticket Prices

With a chance to compete for a spot in the NBA Finals, Cavaliers playoff tickets will be in high demand:

• Upper Level Seats: Expect prices to start at $400 – $900.
• Lower Level Seats: Can range from $1,200 – $3,000.
• Courtside & VIP: Could exceed $10,000+ per seat.

NBA Finals Ticket Prices

If the Cavaliers reach the NBA Finals 2025, prices will skyrocket due to massive demand:

• Upper Level Seats: Starting from $900 – $2,500.
• Lower Level Seats: Prices typically range between $3,500 – $9,000.
• Courtside & VIP: Could cost anywhere from $18,000+ to $50,000+ depending on demand.

Important: These price estimates are based on past playoff ticket sales and are subject to change. The best way to secure your seats at the best price is to sign up for our email alerts and be ready when ticket sales begin.

Cavaliers Playoff History: Past Performances & Milestones

The Cleveland Cavaliers have been a cornerstone of the NBA since their inception in 1970. Though they have faced struggles, they have also experienced moments of triumph, highlighted by their historic 2016 championship run.

First NBA Title: The 2016 Championship

The Cavaliers secured their first-ever NBA Championship in 2016, marking the greatest moment in franchise history. Led by LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, and Kevin Love, they overcame a 3-1 deficit against the Golden State Warriors to win the NBA Finals.

• LeBron James: Named Finals MVP after averaging nearly a triple-double.
• Kyrie Irving: Hit the iconic Game 7 three-pointer to seal the title.
• Kevin Love: Played a crucial role in defense, especially in the final minutes of Game 7.

LeBron James Era: Five NBA Finals Appearances

With LeBron James at the helm, the Cavaliers became one of the most dominant teams in the Eastern Conference.

• 2007 NBA Finals: Cleveland reached the Finals for the first time but was swept by the San Antonio Spurs.
• 2015-2018: The Cavs made four consecutive Finals appearances, facing the Warriors each year.
• 2016 NBA Championship: The only title in franchise history.

Recent Playoff Appearances & Rebuild

Since LeBron’s departure in 2018, the Cavaliers have been rebuilding but have returned to playoff contention:

• 2023 Playoffs: Cleveland secured the fourth seed but lost to the Knicks in the first round.
• 2024 Playoffs: The Cavaliers advanced to the Conference Semifinals before falling to the Boston Celtics.

Can the Cavaliers Compete for a Title in 2025?

With a talented young core led by Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley, the Cavaliers are looking to make another deep playoff run. If their defense holds strong and their offense remains consistent, they could be serious contenders in the Eastern Conference.