The 2026 NBA Playoff landscape has reached a fever pitch as the **New York Knicks** and **Oklahoma City Thunder** became the first teams to secure their spots in the Conference Finals. Both teams showcased dominant form in their respective semifinal matchups, clearing their paths to the league’s final four with clinical efficiency.
Knicks Reign Supreme in the East
The New York Knicks left no doubt in their Eastern Conference Semifinal series against the Philadelphia 76ers, completing a **4-0 sweep**. After high-scoring victories in the opening games at Madison Square Garden, New York dismantled Philadelphia on their home floor. The series concluded on Sunday, May 10, with a crushing **144-114** win in Game 4. Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns have been the catalysts for a Knicks squad that looks more dangerous than it has in decades. They now await the winner of the Detroit Pistons vs. Cleveland Cavaliers series.
OKC Continues Undefeated Postseason Run
In the West, the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder remain the gold standard. OKC punched their ticket to the Western Conference Finals by completing a **4-0 sweep** of the Los Angeles Lakers. The clinching victory came on Monday, May 11, with a **115-110** win at Crypto.com Arena, led by a masterful 35-point performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The Thunder currently boast a perfect **8-0 record** this postseason and will face either the San Antonio Spurs or the Minnesota Timberwolves for a chance to return to the NBA Finals.