Knicks face a real challenge with the 76ers to determine if they’ve moved past their struggles

Knicks Prepare for Tough Matchup Against 76ers

Beating the Nets gave the Knicks a short-lived boost, at least for a few days. However, they’re about to face a real test as the competition level ramps up.

This Saturday, they’ll go head-to-head with the 76ers in Philadelphia—a team that’s 0-2 so far this season. “It’s going to be a challenge,” Josh Hart remarked after practice. “I feel good now, but I don’t want to get too confident. Facing a strong opponent means sticking to the fundamentals. If we can pull off a win against a team like that, it would definitely improve our morale.”

The Knicks will have their hands full with the 76ers’ dynamic backcourt, featuring Tyrese Maxey, a rising star and All-Star starter, alongside rookie VJ Edgecomb, who’s having an impressive debut season. These two exemplify the challenges the Knicks often face: defending against quick, agile guards who can both drive to the basket and shoot from long range.

In recent encounters, Maxey and Edgecomb scored 30 and 23 points, respectively, in their first meeting this season, which the Knicks won 116-107. In their subsequent matchup, both players again made significant contributions, combining for 62 points overall. Their efficiency was striking—shooting 56.3% from the field and a staggering 52.8% from beyond the arc.

Both of those games took place at Madison Square Garden, making the current match even more consequential.

“You can’t afford to relax unless you’ve prepared for their strategies,” Mikal Bridges said on Friday. He’ll be tasked with defending both Maxey and Edgecomb. “The moment you let your guard down, they’ll capitalize. It’s crucial to stay alert and ready for their movements.”

Bridges emphasized the importance of teamwork defensively, pointing out, “Defense isn’t about one-on-one play. It has to be one-on-five, with everyone aiding whoever is on the ball.”

One significant factor that might shake things up is the return of Joel Embiid. He’s been notably healthier and more effective since his MVP season two years back. Although Embiid wasn’t available in their first encounter, he played a key role in the second, marking down 26 points and pulling in 10 rebounds.

Embiid’s recent performance included 26 minutes in an overtime win against the Rockets, showing he’s capable of withstanding a heavier workload. Knicks coach Mike Brown acknowledged Embiid’s prowess. “He’s a Hall of Famer, an All-Star—he knows all the tricks. He can score in various ways, and he’s getting to the free-throw line frequently. We need to maintain composure, apply pressure, and not make it easy for him, especially since he’s adept at drawing fouls.”

This upcoming game is part of the NBA’s Rivalry Week. Both teams are closely ranked in the standings and could very well meet again in the playoffs. There had been some tension during their playoff clash two years ago, particularly involving Embiid. While this season hasn’t seen such incidents, things can always change on the court.

“I think the NBA wants me to say yes,” Hart joked when asked about the rivalry. “But honestly, they’re a great team with a solid coach. Whenever you face someone in the playoffs, whether as a player or a fan, there’s always that underlying tension.”