5 first-round bold predictions for the 2026 NBA playoffs
The playoffs are where expectations meet reality, and where chaos usually wins. As the 2026 NBA postseason tips off, every team enters with a path to the Finals on paper. But history tells us that the first round rarely follows the script.
Upsets happen, stars emerge, and narratives shift fast. So instead of playing it safe, let’s lean into the unpredictability. Here are five bold predictions that could define the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs.
MORE: Pressure mounts on Knicks to win NBA playoffs first-round matchup It’s a KAT Attack Mar 3, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) reacts after making a basket against the Toronto Raptors during the first half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images The New York Knicks offense runs through Jalen Brunson.
He is their best and most consistent player, along with being their leader. But it’s not going to be easy for him against Dyson Daniels and the speedy Atlanta Hawks. That’s not to say Brunson isn’t going to have a good series, but Karl-Anthony Towns will lead the Knicks offense.
For as fast and athletic as the Hawks may be, they don’t have the size and strength to go along with it. Towns had success against Atlanta in the regular season, and now that he’s truly found his groove within the Knicks’ offense, look for him to go nuts this round. LeBron James Has 3 Triple Doubles With no Luka Doncic or Austin Reaves, it’s all about LeBron James to begin the postseason.