Knicks Set Records, Wolves Oust Nuggets, and 76ers Force Game 7

Read Time:2 Minute, 45 Second

The Massacre in Atlanta: Knicks 140, Hawks 89

The New York Knicks didn’t just eliminate the Atlanta Hawks last night; they effectively deleted them from the postseason. In a Game 6 performance that bordered on the surreal, New York secured a 140–89 victory, closing out the series 4–2.

Breaking the Record Books

The game was essentially over before the first batch of popcorn was sold out. The Knicks set a blistering pace, leading 40–15 after the first quarter—the largest lead at that stage in the shot-clock era. By halftime, the score was a staggering 83–36.

Halftime Record: New York’s 47-point halftime lead shattered the previous NBA playoff record of 41 points (held by the 2017 Cavaliers and the 2025 Pacers).
Franchise Milestone: The 51-point margin of victory is the largest in Knicks’ postseason history and ties for the 6th-largest in NBA playoff history.

Standout Performers

OG Anunoby was the engine of the blowout, scoring 26 of his 29 points in a relentless first-half barrage. Meanwhile, Karl-Anthony Towns continued his dominant postseason run, recording his second triple-double of the series with 12 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists. Mikal Bridges added 24 points, showcasing the “Nova Knicks” chemistry that has made them the most dangerous out in the East.

The night wasn’t without drama; things boiled over in the second quarter when New York’s lead crossed 50. A physical altercation between Mitchell Robinson and Dyson Daniels resulted in both players being ejected, a moment of friction in an otherwise smooth New York victory.

Philly Forces Game 7: 76ers 106, Celtics 93

In Philadelphia, the 76ers proved they aren’t ready for summer vacation. Facing elimination, the Sixers leaned on a resurgent Tyrese Maxey, who dropped 30 points to force a deciding Game 7 against the Boston Celtics.

Returning remarkably early from an appendectomy, Joel Embiid contributed 19 points and a massive defensive presence that neutralized Boston’s interior game. Paul George added 23 points, including a highlight-reel behind-the-back pass to rookie VJ Edgecombe for a dunk that blew the roof off the arena. The series now heads back to Boston for a Saturday night showdown.

Wolves Howl into the Second Round: Timberwolves 110, Nuggets 98

In the Western Conference, the Minnesota Timberwolves officially ended the Denver Nuggets’ season with a 110–98 win, taking the series 4–2.

Playing shorthanded without Anthony Edwards, Minnesota found a hero in Jaden McDaniels, who played 45 minutes and delivered a career-high 32 points and 10 rebounds. The Wolves’ defense harassed Nikola Jokić all night; while the Joker finished with 28 points and 10 assists, the rest of the Nuggets’ supporting cast struggled to find air. Minnesota now moves on to face the San Antonio Spurs in the second round.

Scoreboard Summary: April 30, 2026

Matchup	Final Score	Series Result
New York Knicks @ Atlanta Hawks	140 – 89	NYK wins 4–2
Boston Celtics @ Philadelphia 76ers	93 – 106	Tied 3–3
Denver Nuggets @ Minnesota Timberwolves	98 – 110	MIN wins 4–2

The Knicks now await the winner of the Celtics-Sixers Game 7 to determine their opponent in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. If last night was any indication, whoever faces them will need more than just a game plan—they’ll need a miracle.