The Philadelphia 76ers and New York Knicks are set to begin their Eastern Conference Semifinals series at Madison Square Garden. This is Game 1 in a best-of-7 series, and both teams will aim to start strong. The game is scheduled for Monday, May 4, 2026, at 8:00 PM, and will be aired on NBC.
Philadelphia enters the series with a 5-3 record in the postseason. They have won their last three games and performed well on the road with a 3-1 away record. The Knicks also hold a winning streak of three games in the postseason, boasting a 4-2 record. Playing at home, the Knicks have a 2-1 record, making this a critical game for both teams.
Philadelphia 76ers Team Preview
The Philadelphia 76ers are heading into their next game with momentum. They recently defeated the Boston Celtics in the first round of the playoffs. In their last game, they secured a 109-100 win, showing strong performances from key players.
Joel Embiid leads the team with 28 points per game during the postseason. Tyrese Maxey also contributes with 27.4 points per game. Both players play an important role in the team’s success.
The 76ers’ defense is effective, allowing 105.4 points per game, ranking them eighth in the league. They are also second in steals, with 5.1 per game. Their field goal percentage allowed is 43.1%, which is the fifth-best in the league.
New York Knicks Team Preview
The New York Knicks are coming off a big win against the Atlanta Hawks. They scored 140 points, with OG Anunoby leading the team with 29 points. The team shot 58.8% from the field in that game.
In the postseason, the Knicks score an average of 117.8 points per game. They rank third in field goal percentage at 49.9%. Their strong rebounding is evident, averaging 45.8 rebounds per game, ranking fifth.
Jalen Brunson is a key player for the Knicks, averaging 26.3 points per game in the postseason. OG Anunoby and Karl-Anthony Towns contribute with 21.5 and 18.7 points per game respectively. Jeremy Sochan is probable to play despite dealing with hamstring tightness.
Betting Prediction
The Knicks are favored by 7.5 points against the 76ers. The Knicks have an average of 117.8 points per game, which is much higher than the 76ers’ 104.4 points. This makes the Knicks spread a reasonable choice.
The 76ers allow 105.4 points per game, while the Knicks allow just 100.3 points. The Knicks’ strong defense can limit the 76ers’ scoring. This defensive edge makes the Knicks’ spread more appealing.
The Knicks also have a higher field goal percentage at 49.9%, compared to the 76ers’ 44.6%. With better shooting and more points per game, the Knicks are in a strong position to cover the spread. Their offensive efficiency supports the pick.
- Pick: Knicks -7.5
