The stage is set, and the 2026 NBA Playoffs are ready to tip off. The first round begins this Saturday, and the question on every fan's mind is: who will survive and advance to the conference semifinals? Our editorial team has broken down every matchup, and we're sharing our predictions for each series. Get ready for what promises to be an unforgettable postseason.

First up in the East, the Boston Celtics are the overwhelming favorite against the Philadelphia 76ers. The consensus among our experts is a decisive Celtics victory, with predictions ranging from a gentleman's sweep in five games to a swift four-game dispatch. The primary reason? Philadelphia's MVP, Joel Embiid, is sidelined to start the series following an appendectomy, casting a huge shadow over the Sixers' chances. While Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, and rookie VJ Edgecombe will be asked to carry a massive offensive load, it's a tall order against a Celtics squad that excels in efficiency—leading the league in fewest turnovers and ranking near the top in three-pointers and offensive rebounding. For Philly to have any hope, they'll need a heroic, unexpected performance from a role player like Quentin Grimes. But Boston's machine-like precision makes them a tough out for any team, especially one missing its superstar.

Over in the other marquee Eastern Conference series, the New York Knicks are favored to outlast a dangerous Atlanta Hawks team. Our panel sees this as a tougher, more physical battle, with most predictions settling on the Knicks winning in six or seven grueling games. The Hawks, with their athletic and versatile core, present a formidable first-round challenge. However, the Knicks have built a reputation as road warriors in recent playoffs, clinching series away from Madison Square Garden in each of the last three years. We expect that trend to continue, with Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns leading the charge for New York's fifth series victory in four postseasons. This one has all the makings of a classic, hard-nosed playoff war.

Finally, the Cleveland Cavaliers enter their series as the clear pick to advance. Our predictions are uniformly in their favor, with forecasts ranging from a dominant four-game sweep to a comfortable six-game series. The Cavs' balanced attack and defensive prowess are expected to be too much for their opponent to handle over a seven-game series. As the playoffs unfold, every possession will be magnified, and the intensity will be at a fever pitch. It's the best time of the year for basketball fans, and we can't wait to see how it all plays out on the court.