Knicks dismantle Sixers in blowout; Timberwolves upset Spurs as playoffs resume

The second round of the 2026 NBA postseason commenced with two decisive outcomes that defied pre-match expectations. The New York Knicks dismantled the Philadelphia 76ers 137-98 in Game 1, marking a stark departure from the competitive six-game series the two franchises shared in 2024. In a contrasting result, the Minnesota Timberwolves, entering the contest as 9.5-point underdogs, secured a home upset against the San Antonio Spurs.

The Knicks' victory was characterised by a dominant defensive display that limited Philadelphia to just 98 points. Jalen Brunson led the charge offensively, scoring 35 points in the contest. This performance extends a notable trend, as Brunson has now recorded 35 or more points in five consecutive playoff games against the 76ers. The Sixers struggled to match the length and strength of New York's defence, particularly regarding pick-and-roll units where Joel Embiid's mobility was exploited.

Meanwhile, the Timberwolves managed to overcome significant roster limitations to defeat the Spurs at the Spurs' home building. The Wolves were hobbled by the absence of key rotation players Ayo Dosunmu and Donte DiVincenzo, and their star, Anthony Edwards, was playing on a minutes limit due to a bone bruise sustained nine days prior. Despite these constraints, Minnesota's organisational culture and strategic adjustments allowed them to secure the win.

Minnesota coach Chris Finch utilised a creative "three-big" lineup and intentionally kept Rudy Gobert out of the paint in the fourth quarter to neutralise Victor Wembanyama's offensive impact. This strategy proved effective, as the Timberwolves scored 35 points in the final frame, their most of any quarter in the game. Mike Conley, who had played only 42 seconds in the previous round against Denver, started this game and made four three-pointers to bolster the effort.

Victor Wembanyama recorded a triple-double with 11 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 blocks, tying and then surpassing the single-game playoff blocks record. However, his offensive output remained negligible as he struggled with shooting, attempting zero three-pointers and missing all eight attempts he did take. His 3-point attempt rate has dipped from 47% last season to 32.4% this season, reflecting a strategy shift favouring interior shots, though the Spurs' inability to replicate their first-round success against Minnesota suggests further adjustments are needed.

The Spurs' first-round success was partly attributed to Nikola Jokić's poor three-point shooting, a factor that did not replicate in the second round against Minnesota. The Timberwolves, who have now won three consecutive playoff series as underdogs, demonstrated a strong organisational culture for the postseason. This victory represents an organisational triumph for Minnesota, having built a team that consistently outperforms playoff expectations even when playing short-handed.