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LeBron James Delivers Late Clutches as Sixers Edge Knicks

LeBron James scored 20 points to lead the Philadelphia 76ers to a 98-93 victory over the New York Knicks on Friday night.

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Late Drama at Xfinity Mobile Arena

LeBron James took control late on Friday night to help the Philadelphia 76ers secure a 98-93 NBA Cup win over the New York Knicks. A step back three pointer from Jalen Brunson had erased an 11 point fourth quarter lead for Philadelphia at Xfinity Mobile Arena. James responded immediately. He backed down forward OG Anunoby and hit a fadeaway jumper to regain the lead.

With 11.9 seconds remaining, James added a putback layup to push the lead to five points. The win moved Philadelphia to 5-1 on the season. Head coach Nick Nurse praised the veteran after the game, stating it was his best performance since joining the team.

Setting Records and Staying Calm

James finished with 20 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists. It was his first 20 point game in a Sixers uniform. At 41 years and 304 days old, he tied Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the fifth oldest player in league history to score 20 points in a game.

He has now scored at least 20 points in 68 games since turning 40. That is more than every other player aged 40 or older in history combined, who have 67 such games. Tyrese Maxey called James a calming presence in late game situations. All five of Philadelphia's wins this season have come during clutch time in the final five minutes with the score within five.

Stepping Up Without Brown

With forward Jaylen Brown out due to a left patellar injury, James took on more early responsibility. He scored 12 points in the first half on nine shots. Although he managed only two points in the third quarter, he added six vital points in the fourth quarter to seal the victory over a Knicks team that had won six straight in the series entering the season.

James expressed his happiness with his decision to join Philadelphia, saying he is having a great time. The Sixers now head to Charlotte, North Carolina, to face the Hornets on Saturday.

What it means for the next game

Philadelphia 76ers at Charlotte Hornets (NBA, Sat, 31 Oct): Charlotte Hornets win 45%, Philadelphia 76ers win 55%; projected score Charlotte Hornets 109, Philadelphia 76ers 110. Our safest pick: Hornets +9.5.

Chicago Bulls at Philadelphia 76ers (NBA, Tue, 03 Nov): Philadelphia 76ers win 60%, Chicago Bulls win 40%; projected score Philadelphia 76ers 121, Chicago Bulls 117. Our safest pick: Bulls +12.5.

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