The New York Knicks have turned into one of the hottest teams in the postseason, as they crafted another blowout victory in Game 1 against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Typically, when a series opens up in blowout fashion, it leads to bold predictions that favor a sweep–or something close to it.
GettyATLANTA, GEORGIA – APRIL 25: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks reacts after a collision to his knee against the Atlanta Hawks during the fourth quarter of game four of the Eastern Conference first round playoffs at State Farm Arena on April 25, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
In round one, the Sixers already experienced that. In the first game of the playoffs, the Sixers lost to the Boston Celtics 123-91. They also suffered a 128-96 blowout in Game 4, which put them down 1-3.
Ultimately, the Sixers won the series. That’s why Jalen Brunson wants to pump the brakes on the Knicks getting ahead of themselves.
Jalen Brunson Has A Key Takeaway vs Sixers
GettyATLANTA, GEORGIA – APRIL 30: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks reacts during the second half of a game against the Atlanta Hawks in Game Six of the First Round of the NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs at State Farm Arena on April 30, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
“Honestly, you’ve got to take this game with a grain of salt,” Brunson told reporters after the Knicks’ 137-98 victory.
“Just kind of move forward. I don’t think we’re going to be seeing that team, the same one in Game 1 and Game 2. They are going to be ready to go.”
The 76ers had a takeaway that proved just that. A blowout is unfortunate, but a loss is a loss either way. The Knicks won’t get extra points in the series for winning in that fashion, so the 76ers shouldn’t let the final score affect the way see the series moving forward.
The Knicks Need To Stay Sharp
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 28: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks reacts during the second half of Game Five of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the Atlanta Hawks at Madison Square Garden on April 28, 2026 in New York City. The Knicks won 126-97.
The Sixers bounced back from their blowout in Game 1 against Boston by stealing a game on the road without Joel Embiid on the court. It was an impressive win that stunned the hoops world.
The Knicks are going to look to avoid that scenario. By now, they know what the 76ers are capable of this postseason, and they have to counter whatever adjustments that Nick Nurse makes in Game 2.