Defending NBA champions the Golden State Warriors swept aside the San Antonio Spurs 113-92 to open their play-off campaign.

The Warriors, still without Steph Curry, raced to an early lead in the first game in their best-of-seven series with Kevin Durant hitting 24 points and adding eight rebounds, while Klay Thompson had 27 points.

The Spurs failed to find their range, finishing the game with only 40 per cent of field goal attempts made, with Rudy Gay leading San Antonio with 15 points.

The Philadelphia 76ers finished their regular season with a 16-game winning streak – and a 130-103 victory over the Miami Heat saw the purple patch continue into the play-offs.

Joel Embiid missed out due to a broken bone near his left eye, but Ben Simmons (17 points, 14 assists and nine rebounds) helped Philly to a 1-0 series lead.

Miami led at the half 60-56, but the Sixers went on a 15-point run as the momentum shifted their way.

The Toronto Raptors edged a tight game against the Washington Wizards 114-106, with Serge Ibaka having 23 points and 12 rebounds, while Anthony Davis had 35 points as the New Orleans Pelicans beat the Portland Trail Blazers 97-95.