Embiid Beats Celtics; Brunson Destroys Hawks
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- Joel Embiid posted 33 points and 8 assists in 39 minutes, leading the 76ers to a Game 5 win over the Celtics after his emergency appendectomy 19 days earlier.
- Jalen Brunson scored 39 points and 8 assists, driving the Knicks to a 126‑97 victory over the Hawks and giving New York a 3‑2 series lead.
- San Antonio Spurs clinched a second‑round berth by defeating the Portland Trail Blazers in Game 5, becoming the West’s second team to advance.
- Boston Celtics fell behind 3‑2 in the series after the loss, jeopardizing their playoff hopes.
- Atlanta Hawks were blown out 126‑97, dropping to 2‑3 in their series and facing elimination.
Why it matters: The 76ers survive elimination, the Knicks hold a 3‑2 series edge, and the Spurs lock a second‑round slot; Celtics and Hawks see their playoff hopes dim, driving lower ticket revenue and TV ratings for those markets.
