NBA Games on TV – Monday, May 4, 2026 (ET)
The 2026 NBA Playoffs move into the Conference Semifinals with two Game 1 matchups on Monday night. Fresh off the first round, four teams begin their next chapter with momentum, rest, and high expectations.
🏀 Game of the Day: Minnesota Timberwolves vs. San Antonio Spurs (Game 1)
9:30 PM ET | NBC, Peacock
The Western Conference Semifinals tip off in San Antonio as the Spurs host the Minnesota Timberwolves. San Antonio enters as one of the league’s most dominant teams after a convincing first-round performance, while Minnesota arrives battle-tested after a six-game series win.
The Spurs bring elite offensive efficiency and a +8.0 scoring differential into the matchup, while Minnesota counters with resilience and recent form after eliminating a strong opponent. Both teams play a similar style, but San Antonio’s depth and consistency give them an early edge.
Why It’s the Game of the Day: A clash between one of the league’s best teams and a proven playoff survivor makes this the most intriguing opener of the semifinals.
Prediction: San Antonio takes Game 1 at home behind superior depth and offensive execution.
Philadelphia 76ers vs. New York Knicks (Game 1)
8:00 PM ET | NBC, Peacock
The Eastern Conference Semifinals begin at Madison Square Garden as the New York Knicks host the Philadelphia 76ers. Both teams enter in strong form—New York after a dominant sweep, and Philadelphia after a momentum-building series win.
This matchup projects as a slow-paced, physical contest with both teams relying on half-court execution. Philadelphia holds slight advantages in shooting efficiency, while New York’s free-throw consistency and home crowd could be key factors.
Prediction: A tight Game 1 with Philadelphia narrowly edging it thanks to shooting efficiency.
Monday’s slate marks the start of the Conference Semifinals, where competition intensifies and every possession becomes more valuable. Expect playoff-level intensity from the opening tip.