The New York Knicks’ celebratory return to Madison Square Garden after winning the NBA Cup ended in disappointment as the Philadelphia 76ers snapped their seven-game winning streak with a gritty 116–107 victory on Friday night.
Despite being shorthanded, the Sixers delivered one of their most impressive performances of the season, improving to 15–11, while the Knicks slipped to 19–8.
Tyrese Maxey led the charge with a superb all-around display, pouring in 30 points and dishing out nine assists to control the tempo on the road. Rookie VJ Edgecombe continued his impressive run, contributing 23 points and four assists, repeatedly hurting New York with his energy and shot-making.
The Knicks kept pace for long stretches behind Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, who scored 22 points apiece. Mitchell Robinson was dominant inside, finishing with a double-double of 21 points and 16 rebounds, but New York struggled to string together stops in the decisive moments.
Philadelphia’s win was all the more notable given the absence of key contributors. Joel Embiid missed the contest due to illness and right knee injury management, while Kelly Oubre Jr. (left knee LCL sprain) and Trendon Watford (left adductor strain) were also sidelined.
For the Knicks, the loss marked their first defeat at home since lifting the NBA Cup, while the Sixers walked away with a statement road win that could loom large as the season progresses.
Image Credit: Philadelphia 76ers/X Account
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