The 2026 NBA playoffs kicked off its second round on Monday, featuring significant matchups that set the stage for an exciting week. The New York Knicks triumphed over the Philadelphia 76ers, while the Minnesota Timberwolves edged out the San Antonio Spurs in a nail-biting road victory.

As the playoff action continues, two critical series will begin on Tuesday:

• Cleveland Cavaliers at Detroit Pistons (7 p.m. ET, Peacock)
• Los Angeles Lakers at Oklahoma City Thunder (8:30 p.m. ET, Peacock)

Pistons vs. Cavaliers Game 1 Prediction

Both teams enter this matchup with mixed performances in the first round:

• Detroit Pistons staged a remarkable 3-1 comeback against the Orlando Magic.
• Cleveland Cavaliers barely escaped the Toronto Raptors, needing a Game 7 win at home.

The Cavaliers are more talented than the Magic, but this series may offer the Pistons a less physically demanding challenge. With the Pistons eager to avoid a repeat of their Game 1 home loss to Orlando, they are favored to win by 3.5 points.

Thunder vs. Lakers Game 1 Prediction

The reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder swept the Phoenix Suns in the first round, boasting an impressive average victory margin of 17.3 points. Conversely, the Los Angeles Lakers advanced to the second round for the first time since 2023 after overcoming the Houston Rockets in six games.

Injuries loom over this matchup:

• Jalen Williams will miss Game 1 for the Thunder due to a hamstring strain.
• The Lakers, while welcoming back Austin Reaves, still face uncertainty with Luka Dončić, who remains sidelined with a hamstring issue.

As both series unfold, fans eagerly anticipate the outcomes and the potential for thrilling basketball.