2026 NBA Playoffs: Conference Semifinal Takeaways

The second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs is here, and our NBA Insiders have you covered for every game in the Eastern and Western Conference Semifinals.

No. 2 seed New York Knicks Monday opens the Eastern Conference semifinals against No. 7 Philadelphia 76ersStrike first to win Game 1 and take the series lead. Meanwhile, 1 no Detroit Pistons Rounds out against the Eastern bracket on Tuesday Cleveland Cavaliers.

In the West, Victor Wembanima and No.2 San Antonio Spurs Fighting recently returned Anthony Edwards And Minnesota Timberwolves For Game 1. No. 1 Oklahoma City ThunderSweep those Phoenix Suns Will start the series against No. 4 in the first round Los Angeles Lakers tuesday

As the teams continue to chase the Larry O’Brien Trophy, here are the highlights from both conferences and what to watch for the four series.

Go to a series:
Knicks-76ers

More coverage:
Schedule and Results | Offseason Guide

Eastern Conference

The biggest takeaways from Game 1: Perhaps it was Philadelphia 76ers Still coming back against that emotional 3-1 series Boston Celtics. Or maybe New York Knicks This is the playoffs and is shaping up to be a real championship with a fourth straight blowout win, ending every game before halftime. The sweat equity these Knicks have built up this season, at least, was on display when they choked. Joel EmbiidWhen they weren’t swayed by desperate hack-a-mitch tactics and Jalen Brunson Run wild in the first half, free from emotion Atlanta Hawks draped over him. 27 of his 31 came in the first half Karl-Anthony Towns Why he looks like a matchup nightmare. — Vincent Goodwill

What to watch for in Game 2: Philadelphia’s first-round series against the Celtics followed a simple formula: When the 76ers shot, they either had a chance or won. When do they? They were rooted, and that was what happened in Game 1. Not only was New York hot, Philly missed almost everything and the result was an embarrassing loss. Philadelphia needs to do better Jalen Brunson and will get Tyrese Maxey There’s a long way to go — besides hitting shots — if they want Game 2 to look any different on Wednesday night. — Tim Bontemps