The NBA's Final Four is officially set, featuring intriguing matchups in both the Eastern and Western Conference Finals. The Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks will face off in an unexpected Eastern Conference showdown, while the Western Conference will showcase a clash between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Minnesota Timberwolves. These matchups highlight the concept of parity in the league, as none of these franchises except for the Knicks, who last won the title in 1972-73, have claimed an NBA championship.

As the series begin, the focus will be on the various X-factors that may influence the Eastern Conference Finals. OG Anunoby, a versatile defender, is expected to make a significant impact against his former Toronto Raptors teammate, Pascal Siakam. Additionally, Aaron Nesmith's defensive prowess will be crucial in neutralizing key Knicks players, including Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges. Josh Hart continues to be viewed as an unpredictable element every time he steps onto the court. However, it is Mitchell Robinson who emerges as a potential game-changer, contributing significantly to the Knicks’ efforts without needing to score heavily. Robinson demonstrated his defensive capabilities in New York’s second-round series against the Boston Celtics, averaging 8.0 rebounds and 1.0 steals in limited minutes, which helped the team maintain a plus-46 net rating during his time on the floor.

While the Pacers eliminated the Cleveland Cavaliers in five games, they struggled notably in rebounding, ranking last among playoff teams in that category. Mitchell Robinson’s physical presence in the paint could pose challenges for Myles Turner and significantly impact the series. On the Western front, Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves is quickly establishing himself as a formidable postseason scorer, ranking tenth in NBA playoff history for points per game. Yet, he may experience difficulties against the formidable Oklahoma City Thunder defense, which ranked first in defensive efficiency during the regular season and playoffs. Edwards did not fare well against the Thunder in the past, averaging only 22.3 points on 36.4 percent shooting. With a lineup rich in defensive talent, including Lu Dort and Alex Caruso, and with Chet Holmgren serving as a rim protector, the Thunder are well-equipped to challenge Edwards’ scoring prowess. Meanwhile, the Pacers will continue to utilize their depth against the Knicks, who tend to rely more heavily on their starting lineup. This strategic dichotomy sets the stage for intriguing tactical battles in both series.