The chatter died down.
Talk of Joel Embiid being forced out of Philadelphia has stopped.
Once considered a prime target for the Knicks, the reigning MVP is having a big year for the 76ers. The 76ers moved on from James Harden and are having a better year under new coach Nick Nurse.
The 76ers entered the rivalry's first meeting Friday night at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia with a record of 23 wins and 10 losses, ranking third in the Eastern Conference and just 0.5 games behind the powerhouse Bucks in the standings. is catching up.
Embiid is averaging 34.8 points, 11.8 rebounds, 6.2 assists and 2.0 blocks and could win MVP again.
Perhaps most notable is the emergence of fourth-year guard Tyrese Maxey.
He has All-Star potential and is setting career highs in points (25.9), assists (6.4), rebounds (3.7) and minutes played (37.1).
The 76ers are second in the NBA in NET defensive rating at 110.0 and fourth in offensive rating at 120.4.
Transferring a disgruntled Harden to the Clippers paid off.
The first All-Star voting update was not favorable to the Knicks.
Jalen Brunson ranks sixth among guards in the Eastern Conference behind Tyrese Haliburton, Damian Lillard, Trae Young, Donovan Mitchell and Maxey, while Julius Randle doesn't rank in the top 10 among forwards. Ta.
Fans will account for 50 percent of the votes to determine the showcase starters.
The player and media panel each account for 25%.
The next fan voting update will be shared next Thursday.
Guard Malachi Flynn is doubtful to make his Knicks debut on Friday due to a sprained right ankle.
He was acquired in the OG Anunoby trade with the Raptors.
The 76ers are without guard De'Anthony Melton (back), while forward Robert Covington (left knee) and guard Furkan Korkmaz (illness) are listed as questionable.
