The NBA playoffs have begun. Two close games with a dramatic end follow two clear favorite wins. The defending champion goes bankrupt, things are going well for a German.
defending champion Golden State Warriors is having a defeat in the NBA-Playoffs started. In a highly exciting game against the Sacramento Kings there was a 123:126.
Kings with first playoff game in 16 years
The Kings had previously had to wait 16 years for a playoff game in the North American Basketball League. De’Aaron Fox had 38 points in the first playoff game of his career. Only Luka Doncic was once on his debut with the Dallas Mavericks (42) been better.
For the Warriors, superstar Stephen Curry’s 30 points weren’t enough. The Kings now lead 1-0 in the best-of-seven series. A team needs four wins to advance to the second round of the playoffs.
Hartenstein WINS with New York Knicks
Previously they had New York Knicks to the German Isaiah Hartenstein in their series against the Cleveland Cavaliers won the opening 101:97. The Knicks controlled the game for long stretches and led by up to twelve points before the hosts took the lead themselves with 93:92. However, the Knicks turned the tide in the last two minutes of the game and now have an advantage in the series thanks to the away win. Hartenstein hit two of his three throws from the game and scored eight points. Donovan Mitchell had the best haul with 38 points for the Cavaliers.
In the first two playoff duels of the day, there were clear victories for the favorites. Against the Brooklyn Nets booked the Philadelphia 76ers a 121:101. The Boston Celtics were at 112:99 against them Atlanta Hawks even in the meantime with 32 points in front and demonstrated their strength.