Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NBA match.
Despite the significant difference in quality between them this season, the rivalry between the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers remains a staple of the Eastern Conference. Madison Square Garden will be rocking, with the crowd fully behind the home side as they push for a clean sweep in the season series.
New York Knicks
While Knicks fans eagerly await the return of Jalen Brunson, his absence has unexpectedly highlighted the offensive growth of OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges. Over the last 10 games, they've averaged 23.9 and 22.9 points respectively, well above their season averages of 17.6 and 18. That uptick has helped the Knicks to four wins in their last five games and masked the absence of their star guard impressively.
Philadelphia 76ers
There’s little positive to say about the Sixers this season. They come into this one on an eight-game losing streak, including defeats to some of the league’s worst — the Toronto Raptors (109:127), the Washington Wizards (114:119), and the New Orleans Pelicans (99:112). Once anchored by their defence, even that has collapsed: over this recent stretch, the Sixers have conceded 126.6 points per game, well above their season average of 115.8.
New York Knicks vs Philadelphia 76ers Prediction
The Knicks can’t afford to take their foot off the gas, especially with the Indiana Pacers hot on their heels — the gap is just three wins. With the Philadelphia 76ers depleted and demoralised, it’s hard to see them putting up much of a fight. Expect a dominant showing from the home side.
