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Sports Illustrated
Sports Illustrated
Sport
Ryan Phillips

How Many Teams Make the NBA Playoffs?

Nikola Jokic and LeBron James face off during the 2024 NBA playoffs. | Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

The 2024-25 NBA season is almost upon us as teams finalize their rosters and prepare for training camp. With that in mind, it's worth looking ahead to the season and what to expect, specifically in the postseason. Things can get a little confusing now thanks to the NBA's play-in tournament.

What follows is a look at the NBA playoffs, including how many teams make the playoffs. There are two answers—and it needs a detailed explanation.

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