Maxey and Edgecombe Shine Despite Sixers’ Frozen Performance in Loss to Knicks
Philadelphia 76ers Stumble in Preseason Opener Against New York Knicks
Philadelphia 76ers Struggle Against Knicks in Preseason Bout
The Philadelphia 76ers returned to the court but fell short against the New York Knicks with a 99-84 loss on Thursday afternoon. Despite the setback, Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe provided standout performances, each scoring 14 points. Maxey contributed with a 5-of-12 shooting record, alongside four rebounds, four assists, a steal, and a block. Edgecombe added value with six rebounds and three assists, shooting 4-of-13 from the field and making frequent trips to the foul line.
Key Standouts in an Otherwise Uneven Performance
Kelly Oubre Jr. and Adem Bona also made their mark with eight and four points, respectively. The Knicks, led by Miles McBride’s 12 points, capitalized on several opportunities despite the absence of key 76ers players like Joel Embiid and Paul George. The game was, unfortunately, marred by the Sixers’ lackluster 3-of-36 performance from beyond the arc.
First Quarter: A Mixed Start
The Sixers experimented with different lineups, as coach Nick Nurse gave center minutes to Adem Bona. Bona faced early foul trouble, which contrasted with his effective completion of lob passes. Edgecombe had an active start, aggressively securing rebounds and setting up plays. The first quarter concluded with Maxey tying the game at 25 with a floater, capping a relatively solid performance.
Second Quarter: Defensive Highlights Amid Offensive Struggles
Johni Broome had several opportunities for easy baskets but struggled to convert consistently. On defense, however, Kelly Oubre Jr. displayed energy with a notable chase-down block. Amidst offensive struggles on both sides, Edgecombe attempted a highlight-reel dunk and later nailed a three-pointer. The Sixers trailed by ten points at the half, unable to break the Knicks’ hold.
Third Quarter: Momentum Shift for the Knicks
The second half saw brief defensive brilliance with blocks from Bona and Oubre, but the Sixers couldn’t maintain offensive momentum. Edgecombe was the only consistent perimeter threat. His assist to Oubre helped cut the deficit slightly, but the bench struggled to produce. The Knicks extended their lead to 24 points, aided by strong second-side action from their lineup.
Final Quarter: Closing Out the Contest
With regulars resting in the final quarter, Edgecombe continued his aggressive play, though his shooting remained inconsistent. Despite little success from three-point range throughout the game, his efforts demonstrated promise for future games. Derek Bodner of PHLY Sports offered further context to the Sixers’ shooting woes, highlighting the team’s cold streak.
Next Up: Rematch in Abu Dhabi
The Philadelphia 76ers will have a chance to address these shortcomings and redeem themselves when they face the New York Knicks again in Abu Dhabi on Saturday at 11 a.m. ET. Catch the rematch as both teams continue to shape their strategies for the upcoming season on NBATV.
