Knicks Look for a Second Straight Win in a Rematch With the 76ers

By NBA Stat Desk How we produce articles

New York has found some footing, but Philadelphia already beat them once this season.

NYK @ PHI Oct 30, 2026 at 11:30 PM UTC

The Knicks arrive in Philadelphia with a different feel than the one that started their season. They opened 0-3, with losses to the 76ers, Boston and Orlando, then beat a previously unbeaten Detroit team 111-97 for their first win. That result ended the skid and gave them something to build on, but the opener against Philadelphia is a reminder that this opponent has already beaten them once.

The Detroit game offered several encouraging signs. Karl-Anthony Towns controlled the interior with 27 points and 20 rebounds, and that kind of presence is the most direct way for New York to pressure Philadelphia's defense. Mikal Bridges also broke out of a 0-for-10 start from three, going 4 for 8 against the Pistons, which gives the Knicks another perimeter option. The biggest swing was a 37-13 third quarter that built a 25-point cushion and fixed the second-half problems that had hurt them earlier.

The concern is Jalen Brunson, who came in shooting 39% for the season and went 1 for 9 in the first half against Detroit. He stayed aggressive and the Knicks still won, but a repeat of that slump would leave them leaning heavily on Towns and Bridges. If Brunson's shot returns, New York has the pieces to win this rematch.

I expect a close game. Philadelphia has the edge of already beating this group and playing at home, and one good quarter from New York may not be enough for a second straight win. Towns and a more confident Bridges keep the Knicks within reach late, but the 76ers hold on for a narrow win.

Prediction: 76ers 108, Knicks 104.

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