RealGM Basketball Wiretap

07 May 2026

• Jalen Brunson Scores 26 Points In Knicks' Game 2 Win Over 76ers

  The New York Knicks defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 108-102 in Game 2 to take a 2-0 series lead on Wednesday night.

  The game featured 25 lead changes, the most for a playoff game in 11 years. Neither team lead by more than seven points in the game.

  "Most importantly, it's staying poised, staying composed," Jalen Brunson, who scored 26 points, said. "Just figuring out one just play at a time, one step at a time and not looking too far ahead."

  OG Anunoby had 24 points, though he left for the locker room late in the game due to an apparent leg injury. Coach Mike Brown had no status update afterwards.

  76ers head coach Nick Nurse said that his team was getting good looks despite the loss.

  "I thought we had maybe four wide-open shots in a row that didn't go," Nurse said. "We just needed to keep the scoreboard moving and we played great offense. We just didn't shotmake."

  Joel Embiid missed the game with hip and ankle injuries.

  Game 3 moves to Philadelphia on Friday.

• Jared McCain 'Definitely Hurt' By 'Sold High' Comment After Trade From Sixers

  Jared McCain's arrival with the Oklahoma City reflects the kind of calculated, forward-looking roster construction that has defined Sam Presti's tenure. Philadelphia traded the young guard after VJ Edgecombe emerged as a backcourt cornerstone and McCain's injured knee raised durability concerns, with the Sixers receiving a 2026 Houston Rockets first-round pick and three second-rounders in return.

  Sixers GM Daryl Morey declared publicly that Philadelphia had "sold high" on McCain.

  "It definitely hurts," McCain said of the comment. "In my opinion, I try to prove the people right that really believe in me, whether it's my family, my support system. It's not about proving the team wrong or whatever, proving the GM wrong. Whatever he said, that's his opinion. I just try and be myself and not worry about that."

  McCain had finished seventh in Rookie of the Year voting the previous season despite appearing in just 23 games, a performance that kept him on the radar of teams willing to bet on his potential.

  McCain connected on nearly 40 percent of his three-point attempts since joining the Thunder, providing reliable perimeter shooting during the team's regular season stretch run.

  McCain has embraced the environment around a veteran roster with championship experience.

  "It's been amazing, man," McCain said. "It's been a blessing just to get to learn from these guys. They already have championships, and just being able to soak in whatever they're able to tell me and ask questions and do as much as I can to contribute."

• Joel Embiid Out For Game 2 With Ankle, Hip Injuries

  Joel Embiid has been ruled out of Game 2 against the New York Knicks by the Philadelphia 76ers due to ankle and hip injuries.

  Embiid was unable to participate in shootaround on Wednesday morning after experiencing soreness in both his ankle and hip.

  Embiid has been receiving around-the-clock treatments in hopes of playing Game 2. The Sixers enter Game 2 with a 0-1 series deficit to the Knicks.

  The Sixers won Game 2 at the Boston Celtics in the first round despite playing without Embiid.

• SIxers-Celtics Game 7 Averages 10.99M Viewers, Biggest Audience For First-Round Game Since 1999

  Saturday night's Game 7 between the Philadelphia 76ers and Boston Celtics averaged 10.99 million viewers on NBC.

  It is the largest audience for a first-round game since Game 5 of Jazz-Kings in 1999.

  Viewership peaked at 12.6 million viewers.

  Sunday's Game 7 between the Cavs and Raptors averaged 7.0 million viewers. Game 7 between the Magic and Pistons earlier in the day averaged 5.7 million viewers on ABC.

  NBC's 15 playoff games averaged 5.5 million viewers, up 61% from last year.

• How To Watch 76ers Vs Knicks East Semifinals Game 2: Live Stream, TV Channel, Predictions

  How to watch 76ers vs. Knicks Game 2

  Wednesday's Game 2 will be broadcast on Fubo.

  Category	Details
  Date	Wednesday, May 6, 2026
  Tip-Off Time	7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT
  Live Stream	Fubo
  Venue	The Garden

  The Eastern Conference Semifinals continue at the world's most famous arena this Wednesday, May 6, as the Knicks aim to maintain their momentum against the Philadelphia 76ers. The third-seeded Knicks delivered a historic 137-98 statement in Game 1, fueled by an offensive explosion that left the visitors searching for answers. For the 76ers, tonight is a chance to reset after a quick turnaround from their first-round battle. Catch every high-stakes moment live on Fubo.

  Game 1 was a clinic in efficiency for Jalen Brunson, who poured in 35 points in just 31 minutes of action. The Knicks shot a blistering 56% from the field, while OG Anunoby and Karl-Anthony Towns combined to stifle the Philadelphia interior. The 76ers saw Joel Embiid struggle with physical fatigue following his Game 7 heroics over the weekend, managing just 11 points on 3-of-9 shooting. To level the series, Philadelphia must regain their defensive composure and find a secondary scoring spark to alleviate the pressure on Tyrese Maxey. Witness the tactical battle live on Fubo.

  The spotlight remains on the health of the superstars. The Knicks enter tonight's contest with the luxury of fresh legs, having won four straight games by a total of 135 points. Meanwhile, the 76ers are looking to veteran Paul George to provide the perimeter spacing needed to pull the Knicks' defense away from the rim. Expect a physical, championship-level atmosphere as the fans at The Garden look to propel their team to a commanding 2-0 lead.

  The Knicks' ability to control the transition game and limit second-chance points will be the deciding factor in Game 2. You can witness this Eastern Conference semifinal showdown streaming live on Fubo.

  Knicks vs. 76ers Game 2 Odds & Prediction

  The Knicks enter Game 2 as home favorites following their dominant performance on Monday. Oddsmakers believe the momentum shift and Philadelphia's apparent fatigue make the hosts the clear choice to take a two-game series lead.

  Betting Line	Knicks -6.5
  Over/Under	215.5
  Moneyline	KNI -265 | PHI +215

  Prediction: While the 76ers are built on resilience, the Knicks are currently firing on all cylinders at home. Expect a much more competitive effort from Joel Embiid, but the depth and scoring versatility of the Knicks should eventually overwhelm the visitors in the second half. Final Score: Knicks 116, 76ers 104.

  Key Game 1 Performers

  The duel between Jalen Brunson and Tyrese Maxey remains the focus of the series, with both stars acting as the primary engines for their respective offenses.

  Knicks Key Player Stats (Game 1)	Points	Assists	Rebounds	FG%
  Jalen Brunson (G)	35	3	2	66.7%
  Karl-Anthony Towns (C)	16	2	12	50.0%

  The 76ers rely on Joel Embiid for interior scoring, while looking for Paul George to maintain his efficiency from the perimeter.

  76ers Key Player Stats (Game 1)	Points	Rebounds	Assists	FG%
  Joel Embiid (C)	11	8	4	33.3%
  Paul George (F)	17	3	2	46.2%

  Stream the NBA Playoffs on Fubo

  Fubo is the ultimate destination for NBA fans this postseason. Don't miss a single highlight as the Knicks and 76ers battle for Eastern Conference supremacy with a flexible streaming experience.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  What was the score of Game 1?
  The Knicks defeated the 76ers 137-98 on Monday night to lead the series 1-0.

  When is Knicks vs. 76ers Game 2?
  Game 2 is scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, at The Garden, with tip-off at 7:00 PM ET.

  Who leads the series?
  The Knicks currently lead the best-of-seven series 1-0.

  This article contains affiliate links. When you purchase through the links provided, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Restrictions may apply.

• Karl-Anthony Towns Keeps Knicks Focused After 39-Point Blowout Game 1 Win Over 76ers

  The New York Knicks defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 137-98 in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Monday night.

  The Knicks became the first team in NBA history to win three straight postseason games by at least 25 points.

  Jalen Brunson scored 35 points in the win, with OG Anunoby adding 18 points. Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges both had 17.

  "We're playing well, but it doesn't mean anything if we can't find a way to get three more wins," Towns said after the game. "So, we've just got to stick to the task at hand."

  The Knicks have now won their last three games by a total of 119 points, the largest differential over three games in playoff history.

  "They're trying to focus on the details no matter what the score is," Knicks coach Mike Brown said. "They're still trying to stay locked in. And it shows by, you know, whether we're up double digits or not, we're still diving on the floor for loose balls. We're still trying to get out in transition and get to the corners to put pressure on the defense. You know, we're still trying to play the right way."

  "That's why you play a season," Brunson said. "That's why you go through adversity. You find things to make you the best team as possible by the end of the year. And even at this point, you find ways to get better and improve."

  Paul George scored 17 points for the Sixers, with Joel Embiid adding 14 points.

  "They were obviously picking us apart, moving a lot better than we were," 76ers coach Nick Nurse said.

  Game 2 takes place on Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden with the Knicks favored by 6.5 points.

• How To Watch 76ers Vs Knicks East Semifinals Game 1: Live Stream, TV Channel, Predictions

  How to watch 76ers vs. Knicks Game 1

  Monday's Game 1 will be broadcast on Peacock.

  Category	Details
  Date	Monday, May 4, 2026
  Tip-Off Time	8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT
  Live Stream	Peacock
  Venue	Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

  The Eastern Conference Semifinals kick off at the world's most famous arena this Monday, May 4, as the New York Knicks host the Philadelphia 76ers for a highly anticipated Game 1. The third-seeded Knicks arrive well-rested after dispatching the Hawks in six games, while the seventh-seeded 76ers are coming off an emotional high following their stunning Game 7 upset of the Boston Celtics on Saturday. With a spot in the Conference Finals eventually on the line, expect an electric atmosphere at Madison Square Garden. Catch every moment live on Peacock.

  The Knicks' first-round series was defined by the clinical efficiency of Jalen Brunson and the interior dominance of Karl-Anthony Towns, who anchored a New York offense that averaged over 115 points against Atlanta. The 76ers, meanwhile, rode a historic performance from Joel Embiid (34 points, 12 rebounds in Game 7) to overcome a 3-1 deficit against Boston. To steal Game 1 on the road, Philadelphia must find a way to maintain their defensive intensity despite the quick turnaround and potential fatigue. Witness the tactical battle live on Peacock.

  The matchup shifts the spotlight to the frontcourt battle between Embiid and Towns, two of the league's most versatile big men. New York will lean on the defensive versatility of OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges to contain Tyrese Maxey, whose speed proved fatal for the Celtics' perimeter defense. The Knicks hope their rest advantage will allow them to outpace a Sixers squad that played a physical, seven-game series just 48 hours prior. Expect a physical, high-intensity atmosphere as the Atlantic Division rivals clash for early control of the series.

  Philadelphia's ability to limit the Knicks' second-chance points - fueled by Mitchell Robinson-will be vital against a New York team that thrives on offensive rebounding. You can witness this Eastern Conference semifinal showdown streaming live on Peacock.

  76ers vs. Knicks Game 1 Odds & Prediction

  The Knicks enter Game 1 as favorites, largely due to their rest advantage and home-court strength. Oddsmakers believe the exhausted Sixers may struggle to keep pace with New York's fresh legs, though Philadelphia's momentum from the Boston upset makes them a dangerous underdog.

  Betting Line	Knicks -5.5
  Over/Under	213.5
  Moneyline	NYK -218 | PHI +180

  Prediction: While the Sixers are riding high, the Knicks at Madison Square Garden with four days of rest is a tall order. Joel Embiid will have his way in the paint, but expect Jalen Brunson and a fresh OG Anunoby to pull away in the fourth quarter. Final Score: Knicks 114, 76ers 106.

  Key First Round Performers

  The duel of the stars features New York's Jalen Brunson and Philadelphia's Joel Embiid, both of whom carried their squads through grueling first-round matchups.

  76ers Key Player Stats (Game 7 vs BOS)	Points	Assists	Rebounds	FG%
  Joel Embiid (C)	34	4	12	52.0%
  Tyrese Maxey (G)	30	7	11	48.0%

  The Knicks rely on Jalen Brunson to anchor the scoring, while looking for Karl-Anthony Towns to maintain his masterclass efficiency from the perimeter.

  Knicks Key Player Stats (Round 1 Avg)	Points	Rebounds	Assists	FG%
  Jalen Brunson (G)	28.5	4.2	8.5	47.5%
  Karl-Anthony Towns (C)	21.2	10.8	3.1	51.0%

  Stream the NBA Playoffs on Peacock

  Peacock is the ultimate destination for NBA fans this postseason. Don't miss a single highlight as the 76ers and Knicks battle for Eastern Conference supremacy with a flexible streaming experience.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  When is 76ers vs. Knicks Game 1?
  Game 1 is scheduled for Monday, May 4, at Madison Square Garden in New York, with tip-off at 8:00 PM ET.

  Who won the season series?
  The Knicks and 76ers split their regular-season series 2-2, with both teams winning twice on each other's home court.

  How did Philadelphia advance?
  The 76ers defeated the second-seeded Boston Celtics 4-3 in the first round, winning Game 7 in Boston on Saturday night.

  This article contains affiliate links. When you purchase through the links provided, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Restrictions may apply.

• Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey Lead 76ers Past Celtics In Game 7 To Complete Historic 3-1 Comeback

  Joel Embiid scored 34 points with 12 rebounds and six assists Saturday as the Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Boston Celtics 109-100 in Game 7, completing the first comeback from a 3-1 series deficit in franchise history. The Sixers advance to face the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

  Tyrese Maxey added 30 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists. Philadelphia held Boston to 40% shooting while the Celtics, playing without injured Jayson Tatum, made just two of their first 12 three-point attempts and never led after the second quarter.

  "For him to do that for us and his team, man," Maxey said of Embiid. "Like, all we can do is appreciate him. He's been doing it all year, all his career really. And the city of Philadelphia should really not take it for granted and much love The Process."

  Boston coach Joe Mazzulla started three players making their first career postseason appearances in Ron Harper Jr., Luka Garza and Baylor Scheierman. The Celtics fell behind 30-15 early but rallied to cut an 18-point fourth-quarter deficit to one before stalling. Boston missed three chances to take the lead in the final four minutes.

  Tatum, who returned from a torn Achilles in March, was unavailable for the deciding game due to knee stiffness. Boston blew a 3-1 series lead against the seventh-seeded Sixers, raising significant questions heading into the offseason despite a strong regular season.

  Philadelphia, healthy and cohesive, advances with growing confidence under team president Daryl Morey's roster construction around Embiid and Maxey.

  The Knicks are -260 favorites over the Sixers, giving them a 72 percent implied probability of advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals.

• Jayson Tatum Not Concerned About Left Calf Tightness, Expects To Play Game 7

  Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum was spotted stretching out his left calf several times during his team's Game 6 loss at the Philadelphia 76ers. Tatum exited the contest for good in the third quarter and was later seen on the exercise bike. Despite the soreness in his left calf, Tatum expects to play in Game 7 on Saturday in Boston.

  "I expect to play," Tatum said. "It was my other leg, not the one I injured last year. I mean, I wasn't like overly concerned."

  The "other leg" Tatum is referencing is from when he tore his right Achilles' tendon in last season's playoffs. This injury is in the opposite leg, so the Celtics superstar doesn't feel like he'll miss any time.

• Joel Embiid After Sixers Force Game 7 Versus Celtics: 'I'm Tired Of Losing To Them'

  The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Boston Celtics 106-93 in Game 6 on Thursday night to force a Game 7 on Saturday.

  Tyrese Maxey lead the scoring with 30 points, with Paul George adding 23 points. Joel Embiid finished with 19 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists.

  "I've been playing these guys for so long," Embiid said. "I'm tired of losing to them. So we have a chance to accomplish something special.

  The Celtics have knocked Embiid out of the playoffs three times in his career.

  Embiid pointed to his shot selection as the reason for his efficiency.

  "You look at all the shots I'm getting, everything is short, in and out," Embiid said.

  Jaylen Brown credited the Sixers defense with dictating the Celtics' offense.

  "I think we're playing into their hands a little bit," Brown said. "I definitely think, even myself, the type of shots, the type of things they want us to do. That's not what we've been doing all year. But maybe a shift in your approach can open some stuff up offensively for us."

  Jayson Tatum briefly left the floor in the third quarter with an apparent issue with his lower leg, though he downplayed the event after the game.

  "Yeah, you all probably saw when I went to the back, saw me on the bike," Tatum said. "My leg just was a little stiff when I came out in the third quarter. But, you know, just kind of assessing the moment, like, the game was a little out of reach.

  Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla added that Tatum was not hurt and will not be impacted for Game 7. The Celtics are 7.5 point favorites over the Sixers in Game 7.