The NBA's Final Four is officially determined, featuring an unexpected matchup in the Eastern Conference Finals between the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks. In the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder will face off against the Minnesota Timberwolves. These series are marked by a sense of parity, with the Knicks being the most recent franchise to capture an NBA title, which they did in the 1972-73 season, while the other three teams are still in search of their first championship.

In the Eastern Conference Finals, several players have the potential to serve as X-factors. OG Anunoby is expected to have a significant two-way impact, particularly in his matchup against former Toronto Raptors teammate Pascal Siakam. Additionally, Aaron Nesmith's defensive capabilities could be crucial in limiting the effectiveness of Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges. Josh Hart, known for his unpredictable performances, is always the type of player who can sway the outcome of games. However, it is Mitchell Robinson who might play the most pivotal role in determining the series' outcome. Despite averaging just 4.7 points per game in the second-round series against the Boston Celtics, Robinson's contributions on the boards were significant, as he averaged 8.0 rebounds and displayed remarkable defensive prowess, leading to a notable plus-46 when on the court for the Knicks. This contrasts with the Pacers, who, despite winning their series against the Cleveland Cavaliers in five games, ranked last in rebounding in that round. Robinson's physical presence is expected to create challenges for Indiana's Myles Turner.

Turning to the Western Conference, Anthony Edwards has emerged as one of the most formidable postseason scorers, presently ranking tenth in playoff history in points per game with an impressive average of 27.4. Nevertheless, as he prepares to face an elite Thunder defense, one may anticipate the possibility of Edwards experiencing difficulties in this series. Oklahoma City boasted the best defensive rating in the regular season and continues to lead these playoffs in that category. This defensive strength will be crucial as the Thunder's athletic defenders, including Lu Dort and Alex Caruso, prepare to challenge Edwards. On the other hand, the Pacers have successfully utilized depth to navigate their way through the playoffs, achieving considerable success against the Cavaliers with contributions from a diverse range of players. With ten players averaging significant minutes for Indiana, it will be intriguing to see how their bench strategy holds up against the Knicks, who typically rely on a tighter rotation of seven players.

Chet Holmgren is poised to be a key figure in the Thunder-Timberwolves matchup. His ability to stretch the floor and offer rim protection makes him a unique asset. Historically, only one player has ever achieved a five-block, five-three-point game in NBA playoff history, and Holmgren's versatility could allow him to join that elite company. As the Thunder utilize five-out lineups to potentially draw Rudy Gobert away from the paint, Holmgren's role will be central in defensive schemes against Minnesota's interior scoring threats. This series is likely to highlight Holmgren's two-way capabilities.

In the Eastern Conference Finals, the individual performances of Jalen Brunson and Tyrese Haliburton are expected to play a critical role in determining the victors. Both players have exhibited late-game heroics, and their ability to perform under pressure could be decisive. Brunson has led the Knicks with a notable plus-minus rating in these playoffs, while Halliburton's clutch play has helped the Pacers maintain their perfect record in close games. This playoff series promises thrilling late-game moments, with both Brunson and Halliburton being pivotal figures.

Furthermore, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who led the league in scoring during the regular season, will be a focal point for the Thunder. With an impressive postseason history against the Timberwolves, one can expect Gilgeous-Alexander to take charge offensively, particularly as he aims to break Russell Westbrook's franchise record for points in a playoff game. Given the stakes and the quality of defenses involved, both series are shaping up to be compelling matches that could produce memorable performances from several key players.