Lindy's Primer: Joel Embiid, Connor McDavid Face Elimination
Joel Embiid and Connor McDavid have won MVPs, but never a championship in their respective sports. The quest to do so in 2026 could end Tuesday night.
Here is your Lindy's Primer for what to look for on April 28:
Philadelphia 76ers at Boston Celtics (7 p.m. ET, ESPN)
Joel Embiid returned to the 76ers' lineup after missing the first three games (appendix). The Celtics responded by crushing Philly by 32 points. Now Boston can close out the series at home.
The Big Two of Boston has led the way. Jaylen Brown is averaging 26.8 points per game in this series, Jayson Tatum is averaging 24.8 points, 9.3 rebounds and 8.4 assists.
Embiid scored 26 points in his return, but on 9-of-21 shooting. Tyrese Maxey is averaging 25.8 ppg but on just 40.9% from the floor. As a team, Philly is shooting just 42.9% through four games.
Atlanta Hawks at New York Knicks (8 p.m. ET, NBC)
The Hawks won Game 2 at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks responded by winning Game 3 in Atlanta. Each was decided by a single point.
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Now the series returns to NYC and has been a fun contrast of styles featuring the Knicks' physical defense and three-pronged scoring vs. Atlanta's up-tempo attack.
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Three Knicks are averaging over 20 points per game so far, in Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby. Nobody else is even in double figures.
Expect intensity at MSG, with Knicks favored at home but Atlanta capable of stealing another one on the road.
Portland Trail Blazers at San Antonio Spurs (9:30 p.m. ET, ESPN)
The Blazers went 1-1 in the two games Spurs star Victor Wembanyama missed due to a concussion. The San Antonio center returned for Game 4, resulting in a 21-point blowout victory in Portland.
Now the series returns to Texas, and the Spurs can close it out. All three of San Antonio's victories have been by 12 points or more. The Spurs' young core and elite rim protection with Wemby have proven too much for Portland so far.
Deni Avdija (22.3 ppg) and Jrue Holiday (18.5) have been consistent forces for the Blazers. Scoot Henderson scored 18, 31 and 21 points in the opening three games, but was blanked in Game 4 (0-for-7). He'll need to produce for Portland to have a shot.
Anaheim Ducks at Edmonton Oilers (10 p.m. ET, TNT)
The Ducks visit Rogers Place looking to clinch their first playoff series in nine years. Anaheim dropped Game 1 but has won the last three, all high-scoring affairs (total goals of 10, 11 and 7).
Seven different Ducks have scored two-plus goals through just four games, showcasing depth and explosiveness. Cutter Gauthier and Ryan Poehling each have three scores. Edmonton, so far, has been unable to keep up.
The Oilers, led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, must generate offense while tightening defense at home. The Oilers' star power makes them dangerous, but Anaheim's momentum is real.
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This story was originally published April 28, 2026 at 12:35 PM.