On May 4, 2026, the Philadelphia 76ers faced the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, and the matchup quickly turned into a one-sided showcase. Played at Madison Square Garden, the Knicks dominated from the opening tip, overwhelming Philadelphia with efficient offense and relentless energy.
New York cruised to a decisive 137–98 victory, setting the tone early with sharp shooting and fast-paced ball movement. Jalen Brunson led the charge with 35 points, scoring efficiently and controlling the tempo, especially in the first half. He was supported by a deep and balanced lineup, including strong performances from OG Anunoby and other key contributors, as the Knicks shot over 60% from the field—one of the most efficient playoff performances in franchise history.
Meanwhile, the 76ers struggled to find rhythm after their emotional Game 7 win over Boston. Star center Joel Embiid had a quiet night, scoring just 14 points on poor shooting, while Tyrese Maxey also failed to provide his usual offensive spark. Philadelphia’s offense stalled, and their defense couldn’t contain New York’s relentless scoring attack.
Ultimately, the game highlighted the Knicks’ depth and preparation versus a fatigued Sixers squad. With a dominant win, New York seized early control of the series, leaving Philadelphia needing major adjustments heading into Game 2.