NBA playoff games will clash over the next two nights, worsening the viewing experience.

NBA Playoffs Update

The upcoming nights of the NBA Playoffs are set to deliver some intriguing matchups. On Monday, NBC and Peacock will host Game 1 between the 76ers and the Knicks at 8 p.m. ET, while Peacock will also stream the Timberwolves vs. Spurs game at 9:30 p.m.

On Tuesday, the Lakers will face off against the Thunder at 9:30 p.m. on NBC and Peacock, while the Cavaliers take on the Pistons at 7 p.m. via Peacock.

These overlapping broadcasts might not please everyone. Traditionally, games on ESPN and TNT have been staggered, with the second game usually starting just as the first game wraps up. This has changed a bit since the NBA partnered with NBC this season. They’ve opted not to air games before 8 p.m. ET on weekdays and aim to avoid starting later games in central time as well.

Additionally, fans will find it a bit frustrating that they’ll need both Peacock and Amazon, along with NBC, ESPN, and ABC, to catch all the action during Round 2. The complexity and cost of watching live sports at home are becoming significant hurdles, which could ultimately turn viewers away. You may already be feeling it.

Despite the NBA celebrating its strongest first-round performance in over three decades, some analysts, like those from Outkick, are suggesting the viewer numbers might actually be on the decline. A couple of the second-round series are expected to lack competitiveness, with the Thunder heavily favored over the Lakers, and the Spurs advancing past the Timberwolves as favorites as well.

Interestingly, DraftKings has the Knicks winning against the 76ers in five games as the most likely series outcome, while the matchup between the Pistons and Cavaliers is anticipated to be the least exciting and potentially the longest.

For many, this isn’t the best situation.

It’s also noted that users of YouTube TV might not be as bothered by the overlapping games as those using other platforms. Recently, YouTube TV introduced a customizable multi-view feature, letting users select which channels they want visible on screen. This means they could watch two NBA games simultaneously or even expand the view to include NHL playoff matches.