Knicks Sweep 76ers to Win Eastern Conference Semifinals with Record Scoring
- The New York Knicks have made history in the 2026 NBA playoffs, completing a four-game sweep of the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference semifinals with a commanding...
- The Knicks’ dominance was evident from the outset, as they outscored the 76ers by 30 points in a game that saw New York’s efficiency reach historic levels.
- The 76ers, despite a strong start and a 24-point lead in the paint at halftime, were unable to contain the Knicks’ deep shooting and defensive intensity.
The New York Knicks have made history in the 2026 NBA playoffs, completing a four-game sweep of the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference semifinals with a commanding 144-114 victory. The win not only secured their spot in the Eastern Conference Finals for the second consecutive season but also set a franchise record for the most points scored in a single playoff game, surpassing their previous high with an unprecedented offensive display.
The Knicks’ dominance was evident from the outset, as they outscored the 76ers by 30 points in a game that saw New York’s efficiency reach historic levels. Through three quarters, the Knicks were on pace for the most efficient offensive performance of the last 30 years, according to NBA.com analysis. The team’s ability to stretch the floor was a key factor, as they set a franchise playoff record with 25 three-pointers made on 44 attempts, a feat tied for the most in any NBA playoff game. Miles McBride led the charge with 25 points and a perfect 7-for-9 from beyond the arc, while Jalen Brunson added 22 points to anchor the Knicks’ high-powered offense.
The 76ers, despite a strong start and a 24-point lead in the paint at halftime, were unable to contain the Knicks’ deep shooting and defensive intensity. Philadelphia managed just 8-for-35 (23%) from three-point range, a stark contrast to the Knicks’ 57% shooting from long range. The differential of 25 made three-pointers to 8 was tied for the third-largest in NBA playoff history, underscoring the Knicks’ ability to exploit the 76ers’ defensive vulnerabilities.
This sweep marks the Knicks’ first playoff series sweep in a seven-game series since 1999, a testament to the team’s resilience and strategic cohesion under head coach Mike Brown. The victory also continues a trend of dominance in the playoffs, with the Knicks winning seven consecutive games and maintaining a true shooting percentage of 66.2%, according to CBS Sports. The team’s offensive firepower and defensive swarming have set them up well for their next challenge: facing the winner of the series between the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals.
The road ahead is clear for the Knicks, who now look to build on their momentum and push for another deep playoff run. With a roster that has shown it can perform at an elite level when it matters most, the focus shifts to the next series, where the stakes could not be higher.
The Knicks’ journey to the Eastern Conference Finals is a story of offensive brilliance, defensive discipline, and clutch performances. As they prepare to take on the next challenge, the team’s ability to sustain this level of play will be crucial in determining their ultimate success in the 2026 NBA playoffs.
