For the second year in a row, the Eastern Conference Finals will feature the New York Knicks, who completed a sweep of the Philadelphia 76ers with a stunning 144‑114 blowout on Monday.
The backcourt duo of Jalen Brunson and Miles McBride powered New York’s return to the third round, combining for 47 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists.
“We’re focused, we’re staying poised, staying composed, just focusing on the little things, one game at a time,” Brunson said postgame.
Knicks Make History in Blowout
The Knicks wasted no time in the opening minutes of the closeout game, knocking down 11 three‑pointers in the first quarter alone to seize full momentum with a 43‑24 lead.
New York’s shooting stayed hot throughout the 48 minutes, finishing with 25 threes—tying the 2023 Milwaukee Bucks and the 2016 Cleveland Cavaliers for the most made in a single game in NBA playoff history.
Additionally, New York’s 144 points set a franchise record for the highest total in a playoff game.
Karl‑Anthony Towns recorded a double‑double with 17 points and 10 assists, while Josh Hart added 17 points.
With the win, the Knicks advance to the Conference Finals for the second consecutive year, where they will face either the Cleveland Cavaliers or the Detroit Pistons.
Sixers Bounced Out Again in Second Round
For the sixth time in their last eight playoff campaigns, the 76ers ended their season with a second‑round exit, suffering their third double‑digit loss of the series to New York.
The Knicks’ defense smothered Philadelphia, holding them to an abysmal 8‑for‑35 shooting from beyond the arc.
Joel Embiid—still seeking his first Conference Finals appearance—led the Sixers with 24 points, while Tyrese Maxey added 13. The star duo were the only Philadelphia players to score in double figures.
The schedule for the Eastern Conference Finals has yet to be announced.
