Chaos in the First Round: Recapping the Biggest Upsets
The first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs will be remembered for the bracket-busting results that left pundits and fans alike in disbelief. While the "chalk" held in a few series, three matchups in particular defied all logic and expectation.
Here are the three biggest upsets that defined Round 1.
1. Timberwolves Stun the Nuggets (Without Ant)
The most shocking result of the postseason thus far came out of the West. The Minnesota Timberwolves (#6) eliminated the defending champion Denver Nuggets (#3) in six games. What makes this feat truly legendary is that Minnesota did it while missing their heart and soul, Anthony Edwards (knee), and their best perimeter shooter, Donte DiVincenzo (Achilles).
Led by a career-defining 43-point performance from Ayo Dosunmu in Game 4 and the lockdown defense of Jaden McDaniels, the Wolves proved that their system is more than just one star. Denver, despite a valiant effort from Nikola Jokic, simply couldn't find an answer for Minnesota's physical grit.
2. Sixers Snap the Celtics' Streak
The Philadelphia 76ers (#7) made history by becoming the first team in NBA history to overcome a 3-1 deficit against the Boston Celtics (#2). Prior to this series, the Celtics were a perfect 32-0 when leading 3-1.
Philadelphia’s victory in Game 7 at the TD Garden—delivered without Jayson Tatum on the floor for Boston—was a masterclass in resilience. Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey combined for 64 points in the clincher, officially ending the Celtics' season and proving that the Sixers are a legitimate threat regardless of their seeding.
3. Lakers Dominate the Rockets
While the seeding difference (4 vs 5) wasn't as massive as the others, the manner in which the Los Angeles Lakers dispatched the Houston Rockets was unexpected. The Lakers jumped out to a 3-0 lead, completely demoralizing a young Rockets team that many picked to reach the Conference Finals.
Although Houston managed to claw back two games, the Lakers shut the door in Game 6 with a ruthless 27-3 second-half surge. At 41 years old, LeBron James looked like the best player on the planet, averaging 26 points and 9 assists for the series.
What's Next?
With the heavyweights like Denver and Boston out of the picture, the path to the 2026 NBA Finals is wide open. Will the giant-killing Timberwolves continue their run against the Spurs? Can the Sixers carry their momentum into Madison Square Garden? One thing is for sure: this is the most unpredictable postseason in recent memory.