The first-round playoff series in the NBA witnessed an intense showdown between the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers. In Game 1, held at Madison Square Garden on Saturday, April 20, 2024, the Knicks secured a victory with a final score of 111-104.
Despite an early lead by the 76ers in the first quarter, the Knicks orchestrated a remarkable comeback, dominating the second quarter with a 33-12 surge. Although the 76ers managed to regain some momentum in the third quarter, the Knicks sealed the win by outscoring them 32-22 in the final quarter.
Key players for the Knicks included Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart, who each contributed 22 points, with Hart also securing a double-double with 13 rebounds. Additionally, Miles McBride delivered a strong performance off the bench, adding 22 points to the Knicks’ tally. On the 76ers’ side, Tyrese Maxey led with 33 points, while Joel Embiid contributed 29 points in a losing effort.
In another playoff matchup, the Cleveland Cavaliers took on the Orlando Magic in Game 1, emerging victorious with a commanding 97-83 win. Led by Donovan Mitchell’s stellar performance, the Cavaliers set the tone early and maintained their dominance throughout the game. Mitchell was supported by Jarrett Allen, who secured a double-double with 16 points and 18 rebounds. Paolo Banchero stood out for the Magic, scoring 24 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Cavaliers’ strong performance.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers faced off against the Denver Nuggets in a highly anticipated matchup. Despite a strong start by the Lakers, who led 33-25 after the first quarter, the Nuggets rallied back, particularly in the third quarter, outscoring the Lakers 32-16. Ultimately, the Nuggets claimed victory with a final score of 114-103. Nikola Jokic led the charge for Denver with 32 points and 12 rebounds, supported by Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon, who also secured double-doubles. Anthony Davis led the Lakers with 32 points and 14 rebounds, while LeBron James contributed 27 points, but their efforts fell short against the Nuggets’ formidable performance.
