NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 12: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks tries to get past Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics in the first half in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on May 12, 2025 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images). (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The NBA play-in tournament approaches, prompting a fan guide for rooting interests. Updates will highlight key games, such as the Raptors vs. Pistons, and the Cavaliers vs. Mavericks, with fans encouraged to root against the Pistons and for the Mavericks. Upcoming matchups include the Hawks vs. Magic and Celtics vs. Suns, where rooting strategies depend on playoff seeding implications for the Knicks. Critical games also involve the Heat vs. Hornets and Pistons vs. Wizards, with varying stakes influencing fan support.
