Despite significant injuries, the Minnesota Timberwolves have defeated the Denver Nuggets in the NBA playoffs. The New York Knicks also achieved a dominant victory over the Atlanta Hawks. Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers will head to a deciding Game 7.
The Timberwolves, even without key players, managed to overcome the reigning champions. Jaden McDaniels led the shorthanded Minnesota team with an impressive performance, supported by unexpected contributions from Terrence Shannon Jr. The Nuggets, unable to find consistent scoring beyond Nikola Jokic and Cameron Johnson, struggled with rebounding and interior play. Jamal Murray’s offensive struggles continued, and the Timberwolves closed out the series with strong performances in the final quarter.
In Atlanta, the New York Knicks delivered a record-shattering performance against the Hawks. The Knicks established an insurmountable lead early in the game, highlighted by a historic first-quarter run. The game saw a notable altercation leading to ejections, but the Knicks’ dominance persisted, resulting in the largest halftime lead in NBA playoff history. Several Knicks players contributed significantly to the scoring, while the Hawks’ efforts were insufficient to counter the offensive onslaught.
The Philadelphia 76ers managed to stave off elimination for the second time, forcing a Game 7 against the Boston Celtics. The Sixers displayed a strong all-around performance, outscoring the Celtics in crucial quarters. Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George were key contributors for Philadelphia. The Celtics, on the other hand, struggled to find their rhythm, with Jayson Tatum leaving the game due to a calf issue. The decisive Game 7 will determine who advances to face the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
Minnesota Timberwolves (W6) — Denver Nuggets (W3) 110:98 — Series: 4-2
The Minnesota Timberwolves have eliminated the Denver Nuggets from the playoffs, advancing to the Western Conference Semifinals. Jaden McDaniels was instrumental in the victory, with significant support from Terrence Shannon Jr. The Nuggets’ offense struggled, and they were outplayed on the boards. Nikola Jokic and Cameron Johnson were the primary scorers for Denver.
Atlanta Hawks (E6) — New York Knicks (E3) 89:140 — Series: 2-4
The New York Knicks secured a dominant and record-breaking win over the Atlanta Hawks to win the series. The Knicks established a massive lead early on, setting new playoff records for scoring margin. Multiple Knicks players had strong offensive performances, leading to a historic victory.
Philadelphia 76ers (E7) — Boston Celtics (E2) 106:93 — Series 3-3
The Philadelphia 76ers forced a Game 7 against the Boston Celtics with a convincing win. The Sixers showcased balanced scoring and strong defense. Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Paul George led the charge for Philadelphia. The Celtics’ offense faltered, and Jayson Tatum exited the game with an injury.
NBA Playoffs 2025/26: First Round Matchups and Results
| Conference | Matchup | Series Stand |
|---|---|---|
| Western | Thunder (1) — Suns (8) | 4-0 |
| Western | Lakers (4) — Rockets (5) | 3-2 |
| Western | Nuggets (3) — Timberwolves (6) | 2-4 |
| Western | Spurs (2) — Trail Blazers (7) | 4-1 |
| Eastern | Pistons (1) — Magic (8) | 2-3 |
| Eastern | Cavaliers (4) — Raptors (5) | 3-2 |
| Eastern | Knicks (3) — Hawks (6) | 4-2 |
| Eastern | Celtics (2) — Sixers (7) | 3-3 |