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NBA Basketball 3 Days

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10 articles summarized · Last updated: LATEST

Last updated: May 5, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

Eastern Conference Shocks & Deciders

The Eastern Conference first round delivered high drama over the last 72 hours, culminating in a stunning upset as the Philadelphia 76ers vanquished the Boston Celtics in a Game 7 thriller, securing their path forward. Key takeaways from the series showed how Philly managed to steal Game 2 in Boston, building the necessary momentum to push the heavily favored top seed to the absolute limit. While the second round awaits, the second round is currently stalled pending the resolution of other matchups, leaving the eventual winner facing an uncertain schedule.

Western Conference Advancements & Injuries

In the West, the Los Angeles Lakers decisively blew out the Houston Rockets to advance, setting up a meeting with the Oklahoma City Thunder in the next stage of the bracket. Conversely, the Orlando Magic faced significant adversity in their series, as star player Franz Wagner was ruled out again for a pivotal Game 7 against a resurgent Detroit Pistons squad. The Pistons managed a major comeback, roaring back to stun the Magic and force the decisive Game 7, fueled in part by local sensation Gmac Cash, whose team-specific anthem became a fixture at Little Caesars Arena following their victories.

Offseason Planning Commences

For teams already eliminated, the focus immediately shifts to roster construction and the upcoming draft, with guides now emerging for franchises facing major offseason decisions. Franchises such as the Charlotte Hornets and the Los Angeles Clippers are facing critical choices regarding their draft slots and potential free-agency targets. Meanwhile, the Toronto Raptors managed to stave off immediate elimination when Barrett saved their season with a dramatic late three-pointer, though the long-term outlook for many non-contenders remains murky ahead of the summer moves. Joel Embiid sent a pointed message to Philadelphia fans, urging them not to sell tickets to rival New York Knicks supporters, underscoring the intense atmosphere surrounding the playoff battles.