The Denver Nuggets are back in the Conference Finals

The GIST: One team has booked their spot in the Conference Finals, but there’ll be at least one Game 7 this weekend, with two more possibly on the way after that. The NBA always delivers drama.

Eastern Conference (EC) No. 2 Boston Celtics vs. No. 3 Philadelphia 76ers: The Celtics’ Jayson Tatum had a sluggish start last night, but erupted late in the game, scoring 16 fourth-quarter points to overpower the Sixers 95–86 and set up a Game 7 showdown back in Boston on Sunday.

Western Conference (WC) No. 1 Denver Nuggets vs. No. 4 Phoenix Suns: The Nuggets are back in the WC Finals for the first time since 2020 after eliminating the depleted Suns in last night’s 125–100 win. Looks like Phoenix star Kevin Durant’s search for that elusive third championship will have to wait.

EC No. 5 NY Knicks vs. No. 8 Miami Heat: The Knicks (down 3-2) fed off the bing bong energy on Wednesday, beating the Heat 112–103 to force Game 6. Forget Playoff Jimmy — this one was all about NY’s tireless Jalen Brunson, who played every single minute. And he’ll likely do it again when the series returns to Miami at 7:30 p.m. ET tonight.

WC No. 6 Golden State Warriors vs. No 7 LA Lakers: Golden State had the Midas touch on Wednesday, avoiding elimination with a 121–106 Game 5 win. That said, the Lakers still lead 3-2 and between their home-court advantage and Anthony Davis’ probable return, the odds are ever in their favor to advance tonight at 10 p.m. ET.