The NBA playoffs delivered their first major shock as three-time MVP Nikola Jokic and the third-seeded Denver Nuggets suffered a stunning six-game elimination against the sixth-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves. Jaden McDaniels delivered a 32-point, 10-rebound performance to seal the series, while Jokic's 28-point effort in Game 6 proved too little too late for the championship contenders. Minnesota advances to face Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference semi-finals.

In the East, the New York Knicks crushed Atlanta 140-89, setting a record for the largest halftime lead in NBA playoff history at 47 points. The 51-point victory marked the largest playoff win in franchise history, powered by O.G. Anunoby's 29 points. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers forced a decisive Game 7 against Boston with a 106-93 victory, featuring Tyrese Maxey's 30-point performance and Joel Embiid's return from appendectomy.

The Sixers seek to overcome a daunting history, having lost to Boston in the postseason three times in the last eight seasons. Should they win Game 7, Philadelphia would become only the second team in 67 years to win a playoff series after losing two games by 30 or more points. The winner will advance to face the Knicks in the Eastern Conference semi-finals.