Knicks Crush 76ers in Sweep, Set Historic NBA Playoffs Net Rating Record
The New York Knicks have cemented their status as the NBA’s most dominant playoff team of 2026, completing a 4-0 sweep of the Philadelphia 76ers to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals. Their demolition of Joel Embiid’s squad wasn’t just another playoff series—it was a statistical masterclass that shattered records and redefined efficiency in the postseason.
The Numbers Don’t Lie: Knicks Set NBA Playoffs Record
The Knicks achieved a 20.3 net rating in this series—the highest in NBA playoff history, surpassing the 19.3 mark set by the 2022 Oklahoma City Thunder. This isn’t just a record; it’s a statement.
- 497-408 in total points scored over the series
- 25 three-pointers in Game 4 (franchise playoff record)
- 63.1% shooting in Game 1 (another franchise playoff record)
- 18 three-pointers at halftime in Game 4 (NBA playoff record)
Game 4: The Final Nail in the Coffin
Sunday’s 144-114 victory in Philadelphia wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. The Knicks led by 44 points at one stretch in the first quarter, proving that this wasn’t a close series but a one-sided rout. Key contributions came from:
- Miles McBride (25 points, 6/10 from three)
- Jalen Brunson (22 points, 7/12 from deep)
- Karl-Anthony Towns (20 points, 12/14 from the field)
The Knicks’ playoff shooting efficiency has been nothing short of historic. Their ability to stretch the floor and dominate the paint simultaneously has left opponents scrambling.
Who Did the Knicks Surpass to Set This Record?
The 20.3 net rating isn’t just a number—it’s a benchmark that puts the Knicks in elite company. Teams they’ve now surpassed include:
- 2001 Los Angeles Lakers (19.1 net rating, en route to the title)
- 1986 Boston Celtics (19.0 net rating, Larry Bird’s peak)
- 2017 Golden State Warriors (18.9 net rating, dynasty era)
- 1956 Boston Celtics (18.8 net rating, original dynasty)
This isn’t just a record—it’s a declaration of intent. The Knicks aren’t just playing for the Eastern Conference Finals; they’re playing to win it all.
Javier Moreno’s Take: The Knicks Are Playing Like a Dynasty
“This isn’t just a team—it’s a movement. The Knicks have gone from underdogs to title contenders in a single season, and their playoff run has been nothing short of electric. The net rating record isn’t just a stat; it’s proof that they’re playing at an elite level in every facet of the game. If they can stay healthy and maintain this intensity, the Larry O’Brien Trophy is within reach.”
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Stay tuned for:
- Knicks’ off-day adjustments before the ECF
- Pistons vs. Cavs series breakdown
- Exclusive interviews with key players