The New York Knicks look to maintain their dominance over the Philadelphia 76ers when they meet again on Wednesday. After eliminating the 76ers in last year’s playoffs, the Knicks beat their rivals 111-99 in their first encounter on Nov. 12. Jalen Brunson and Co. are heavy favorites to defeat the injury-hampered team that will be playing on short rest.
The 76ers lost 118-102 to the OKC Thunder less than 24 hours ago. Philly coach Nick Nurse didn’t have Paul George, Joel Embiid, Kyle Lowry, Andre Drummond, Caleb Martin, Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain in the matchup. It remains to be seen how many of the injured players will get the green light to play against the Knicks.
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New York Knicks vs Philadelphia 76ers Injury Report
New York Knicks injury report
Mitchell Robinson remains out as he recovers from offseason left ankle surgery. Jericho Sims (back spasms) and Karl-Anthony Towns (thumb sprain) are questionable. Jalen Brunson is probable because of right shoulder soreness.
Philadelphia 76ers injury report
Andre Drummond (toe), KJ Martin (foot), Kyle Lowry (hip) and Jared McCain (surgery recovery) are on the inactive list.
Tyrese Maxey (sprained left hand), Caleb Martin (groin), Paul George (ankle) and Joel Embiid (foot) are questionable. Among the four, George is the likeliest to play, as he was probable against the Thunder before the 76ers held him out.
New York Knicks vs Philadelphia 76ers Starting lineups and depth chart
New York Knicks starting lineup and depth chart
Philadelphia 76ers starting lineup and depth chart
New York Knicks vs Philadelphia 76ers: Key matchups
Karl-Anthony Towns vs. Joel Embiid
Karl-Anthony Towns and Joel Embiid are both questionable, but if they play, their one-on-one matchup should be the headliner on Wednesday.
KAT has been playing better than his All-Star campaign last season. This month, he is averaging 28.0 points per game on 55.2% shooting, including a sizzling 50.0% from deep. He is hauling down 16.0 rebounds and dishing out 3.3 assists per contest. The Knicks are tough to beat if the former Minnesota Timberwolves star is around.
When healthy, Joel Embiid has been just as impressive. In two January games, he is averaging 28.0 PPG, 13.0 RPG and 4.0 APG. The crowd will be robbed of a titanic encounter if one or both are not cleared to play.
Tyrese Maxey vs. Jalen Brunson
Jalen Brunson is expected to play, but Tyrese Maxey is iffy. If healthy, they can give the Towns-Embiid tussle competition for the best one-on-one showdown. The two point guards were the top players in last season’s playoffs between the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers.
Maxey did not play in the first meeting between the two teams this season. If he returns to suit up for Philly, the cat-quick guard can give the Knicks fits on defense.
Meanwhile, the 76ers usually have trouble limiting Brunson’s impact. They could slow down his offense, but the lefty guard’s playmaking also stands out. The winner of the Maxey-Brunson game could determine who walks away with a victory on Wednesday.
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