The New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers are set to renew one of the Eastern Conference's most heated rivalries in the 2026 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Semifinals. After a dramatic first round, both teams are hungry to advance—and the stakes have never been higher.
Philadelphia enters this series riding an incredible wave of momentum. The Sixers became just the 14th team in NBA history to overcome a 3-1 series deficit, storming back to win their opening-round matchup. The return of Joel Embiid from post-appendectomy surgery proved to be the turning point, as the big man helped steady a team that suddenly looked unstoppable. With Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, and rookie sensation VJ Edgecombe also firing on all cylinders, Philadelphia has its sights set on reaching the Conference Finals for the first time since 2001.
On the other side, the Knicks are looking to make their second consecutive trip to the Conference Finals. New York's path wasn't easy—after winning Game 1 against the Atlanta Hawks, they dropped two straight games, both by a single heartbreaking point. But the Knicks responded like champions, outscoring the Hawks by a staggering 96 points over the final three games, including a 51-point demolition in the series-clinching win on the road. This team has proven it can handle adversity.
The regular-season series between these two was a dead heat, with each team winning two games apiece. However, the Knicks have taken the most recent matchups, giving them a slight psychological edge heading into this best-of-seven showdown.
Fans will remember the 2024 first-round meeting between these clubs, a six-game war filled with tension, technical fouls, and unforgettable moments. The Knicks prevailed that time, but the Sixers have evolved since then. Now, with both teams playing their best basketball, this series promises to be an instant classic.
For those looking to catch every minute of the action, the Knicks vs. 76ers series will air across multiple platforms thanks to the NBA's expanded broadcast deal. Games will be split among ESPN networks, NBC and Peacock, and Prime Video. ABC, ESPN, and NBC broadcasts can be streamed live through DIRECTV, which offers a free trial for new users. Streaming options also include the ESPN app, Peacock, and Prime Video—so no matter where you are, you won't miss a single play.
Whether you're a die-hard Knicks fan or riding with the Sixers, this is the series to watch. Grab your gear, mark your calendars, and get ready for playoff basketball at its finest.