21.04.2024
New York Knicks 111 - 104 Philadelphia 76ers
The New York Knicks defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 111-104 in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference first-round series, with backups Deuce McBride and Bojan Bogdanovic playing key roles in the victory. Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart each scored 22 points for the Knicks, while McBride's 21-point performance off the bench was crucial, especially in the second quarter after Joel Embiid left the game briefly due to injury. Embiid led the 76ers with 29 points, but the Knicks' well-rounded performance led them to a Game 1 win at home, breaking a streak of losing opening games at home in previous playoff series.
Cleveland Cavaliers 97 - 83 Orlando Magic
Donovan Mitchell scored 30 points as the Cavaliers opened the playoffs with a tough 97-83 win over the Orlando Magic in Game 1. Mitchell, who had been slowed by a knee injury, led Cleveland to a much-improved performance compared to last year's first-round exit. Evan Mobley and Darius Garland also contributed to the win, while the Magic struggled offensively with Paolo Banchero committing nine turnovers. Tempers flared in the game, but the Cavs maintained control and closed out the win, looking to build on their redemption quest in Game 2.
Denver Nuggets 114 - 103 Los Angeles Lakers
Nikola Jokic led the Denver Nuggets to a 114-103 victory over LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers in their playoff opener, with Jokic scoring 32 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. Adding to the Nuggets' success, Jamal Murray and Anthony Gordon recorded double-doubles, while Michael Porter Jr. contributed 19 points. Despite a strong performance from James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers lost to the Nuggets for the ninth consecutive time. Porter Jr. excelled on the court despite a challenging week for his family, and Denver now looks to repeat as NBA champions after tying a franchise record with 57 regular season wins. The Lakers will look to bounce back in Game 2 on Monday at Ball Arena.
Minnesota Timberwolves 120 - 95 Phoenix Suns
The Minnesota Timberwolves dominated the Phoenix Suns 120-95 in Game 1 of the NBA playoffs, led by Anthony Edwards' 33 points and nine rebounds. This victory marked the Wolves' first Game 1 home win in the playoffs in 20 years. Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert also contributed significantly, with the Suns' stars Kevin Durant and Devin Booker struggling against the Wolves' defense. Even though Grayson Allen left the game with a sprained ankle, the Wolves' bench stepped up, outscoring the Suns' reserves 41-18. The Wolves' strong performance, especially in the paint and from the free-throw line, has set the tone for the rest of the series.