NBA Playoffs 2026: Favourites Impress as Opening Games Deliver Star Performances

52 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Apr 19

The 2026 NBA playoffs began with dominant Game 1 wins for the Celtics, Thunder, Nuggets, Lakers, Cavaliers, and Knicks.
LeBron James and Jayson Tatum starred in their respective returns, while the Thunder and Nuggets showcased strong team performances to defend home court.
Key injuries, including absences for Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves, Kevin Durant, and Joel Embiid, are already shaping the early playoff landscape.

Will the NBA Finals feature the favored Thunder-Celtics matchup or will a dark horse emerge?

Can LeBron James guide the injury-decimated Lakers to a shocking first-round series victory?

After Orlando's stunning Game 1 upset, can the top-seeded Pistons avoid a historic collapse?

Is Jalen Williams' shooting slump the biggest threat to the Oklahoma City Thunder's title defense?

Which team is better built for a title: the Spurs with Wembanyama or the balanced Boston Celtics?

How will the 76ers' playoff fate be sealed without their superstar Joel Embiid?