The conference semi-final picture is getting clearer and clearer as the first-round playoffs makes it way into the second half.
First Round Playoffs
Hawks 113-96 Knicks
Atlanta Hawks moved 3-1 up in the series by winning both of their home games and much to the envy of the Knicks fans, it was Trae Young, who had the say in the proceedings.
The young guard led the scoring with 27 points as the Knicks were blown apart in the second and third quarter after gaining a marginal one-point lead at the end of the first quarter.
Julius Randle top-scored for the visitors by recording 23 points. The Knicks take the series back to Madison Square Garden and will have to win all of the remaining three matches to set foot in the next round.
Lakers 92-100 Suns
Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns continue to have a back and forth series after the latter won at the Staples Center to level the series 2-2.
The defending champions faced a huge blow with Anthony Davis only playing for 19 minutes as a result of a groin injury. LeBron James notched 25 points and 12 rebounds, but it was not enough against the united scoring effort but forward by the Suns.
Chris Paul, who has been battling a shoulder injuty throughout the series so far, posted 18 points and DeAndre Ayton ruled in the pain with 17 rebounds to his name.
Celtics 126-141 Nets
Boston Celtics fell short in Game 4 despite a stunning 40-point display from Jayson Tatum, and are now on the brink of elimination by being 3-1 down in the series.
The big three enjoyed the scoring spree as Kevin Durant led the scoring for the match by recording 42 points.
After a forgettable Game 3 against his former franchise, Kyrie Irving was back at his best to score 39 points and 11 rebounds. James Harden also chipped in a valuable 23 points and 18 assists.
With the Bucks already having swept the Heat in the first round, they are most likely to have a showdown with the Nets in the semifinals since they are just a solitary win away.
Mavericks 81-106 Clippers
After being 2-0 up in the series, the Mavericks are back to where they started following a Game 4 loss to the Clippers.
Luka Doncic, struggling with nerve issue in the game, could only notch 19 points. On the other hand, Kawhi Leonard top scored in the contest with 29 points and 10 rebounds. Paul George also made a sizable contribution by scoring 20 points in the fixture.
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