Thunder, Celtics open NBA playoffs with big wins, Magic shock Pistons

The Thunder, trying to become the first team since Golden State in 2017 and 2018 to repeat as champions, routed the Phoenix Suns 119-84. The Celtics, seeded second in the Eastern Conference behind Detroit, dominated the Philadelphia 76ers 123-91, but the Pistons trailed all the way in a 112-101 loss to the Magic. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning NBA Most Valuable Player and Finals MVP, scored 25 points, connecting on just five of 18 from the field but drilling 15 of his 17 free throw attempts for Oklahoma City.