West Semifinals Game 6 If Necessary: Series Set To Begin May 4

2026 NBA Playoffs Are in Full Swing

The 2026 NBA playoffs have moved beyond the opening rounds, and the West Conference is now in the thick of the action. With the first round already wrapped up, the focus has shifted to the next stage of competition: the West Semifinals. A key question on many fans’ minds is whether any series will reach a decisive sixth game, and the schedule for those games is already on the calendar.

Game 6 If Necessary: What It Means

In a best‑of‑seven series, a Game 6 is the first opportunity for a team trailing 3‑2 to avoid a sweep. If the series is tied 3‑3, the seventh game becomes the final showdown. The phrase “Game 6 if necessary” indicates that the series could end in six games or could extend to a seventh, depending on how the teams perform. For the 2026 West Semifinals, the possibility of a Game 6 adds extra excitement for fans and extra pressure for the players.

Series Overview

The table below provides the current standings for the teams that have reached the West Semifinals. The numbers reflect each team’s record at the start of the playoffs, giving a snapshot of their performance over the regular season.

San Antonio leads the West with the most wins, followed by Houston. New Orleans and Memphis have struggled during the regular season, but the playoffs often bring surprises.

Schedule and Dates

The West Semifinals series are slated to begin on May 4th. If any series reaches a sixth game, the matchup will take place on the following weekend, giving teams a short rest period before the potential seventh game. The exact dates for each game are set by the NBA and will be released closer to the start of the series.

Key Matchups to Watch

While the specific matchups for the potential Game 6 are not yet confirmed, fans can anticipate that the top teams in the West will face off. Historically, teams with strong regular‑season records often carry that momentum into the playoffs, but the postseason can level the playing field.

• Teams with a winning percentage above .700 have demonstrated consistency and resilience.
• Teams with a winning percentage below .400 have shown potential for upsets, especially when they rally in the playoffs.
• Player performance in the first four games can set the tone for the remainder of the series.

What Fans Should Look For

When the series begins, several factors will influence the outcome of each game and the potential for a Game 6:

1. Home‑court advantage – The team with the better regular‑season record usually hosts the first two games, then the next two away, and the final two back at home if the series goes to seven.
2. Player health – Injuries can swing a series. Teams will need to manage minutes and rotations carefully.
3. Defensive adjustments – As the series progresses, teams refine their defensive schemes to counter the opponent’s strengths.
4. Scoring efficiency – Points per possession and shooting percentages often distinguish the winners in tight games.

Potential Outcomes