NBA31 min ago2 minute read

Knicks Fall Short in Philadelphia as Offensive Struggles Continue

The New York Knicks dropped to 2 wins and 4 losses after a 98-93 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers as their offensive troubles surfaced again.

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Slow Start Dooms New York

The New York Knicks fell to 2 wins and 4 losses on the season after losing 98-93 to the 76ers in an NBA Cup Group B matchup at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.

New York fell behind by 14 points early in the third quarter before mounting a late rally. Jalen Brunson hit a corner 3 point shot with 1:32 left in the fourth quarter to put the Knicks ahead by one. However, LeBron James answered with a fadeaway shot, and VJ Edgecombe hit a deep 3 point shot to seal the win for Philadelphia.

Tyrese Maxey repeatedly drove into the paint against New York, while LeBron James made key plays down the stretch. The 76ers took the win despite playing without Jaylen Brown, who missed the game with a knee injury.

Offensive Inconsistency Remains a Problem

The loss highlighted familiar offensive issues for New York. The team shot just 40.7 percent from the field and 31.7 percent from 3 point range while committing 14 turnovers. Across their previous three losses, the team averaged 40.8 percent shooting and 32.4 percent from deep, putting them 30th in offensive efficiency and scoring.

Knicks head coach Mike Brown emphasized the need for simple plays over big highlights. He said, "We're trying to get a home run every time we get the ball," adding, "We have to hit singles." Brown added that the game was just about playing the right way, regardless of the opponent.

Guard Jalen Brunson noted that the team can be hesitant while trying to make the right play. Center Karl Anthony Towns, who finished with 22 points and 12 rebounds, said the group felt like a team at the end of a road trip, noting they did not have enough magic to complete the comeback. Mikal Bridges also continued to struggle on offense.

What it means for the next game

Brooklyn Nets at New York Knicks (NBA, Tue, 03 Nov): New York Knicks win 87%, Brooklyn Nets win 13%; projected score New York Knicks 117, Brooklyn Nets 104. Our safest pick: Nets +21.5.

Chicago Bulls at New York Knicks (NBA, Thu, 05 Nov): New York Knicks win 84%, Chicago Bulls win 16%; projected score New York Knicks 123, Chicago Bulls 111. Our safest pick: Knicks to win.