Knicks vs Sixers: What to Watch in Game 3

The 76ers had a tough start, dropping the first game of this series after a strong comeback in their previous round. They now face a 2‑0 gap against the Knicks, who have been the top team outside of Oklahoma City for three weeks. The Sixers’ offense looked better in Game 2, yet they still fell short, scoring only 12 points on 21 possessions in the final quarter. A turnaround must begin now. First, health matters. Joel Embiid missed Game 2 and the Sixers are 1‑3 in the playoffs when he is absent. When he plays, they’re 3‑2 but have lost by large margins. In Game 1, Embiid had a solid post presence, yet the Knicks capitalized on his defense of Jalen Brunson. If he returns, the Knicks may try to limit his impact by pulling him off the floor early. Second, Mitchell Robinson’s status is key. The Knicks’ backup center was listed as probable after an illness kept him out of Game 2. His return would give New York a stronger interior presence, especially since Karl‑Anthony Towns has struggled with fouls. The Sixers might intentionally foul Robinson to slow the Knicks’ offense. Third, OG Anunoby’s hamstring strain could hurt New York. Anunoby has been efficient, averaging 21. 4 points on 62 % shooting and 75. 5 % true shooting. Without him, the Knicks will have to rely on smaller perimeter players like Miles McBride or Jordan Clarkson. The Sixers’ ability to defend the paint will be tested, as New York has dominated inside with a 69. 5 % success rate in that area.The Sixers have also been vulnerable to the Knicks’ perimeter blitz. In Game 1, they were pressured on only 16 % of ball‑screens against Tyrese Maxey. In Game 2, that jumped to 41 %. The Sixers’ efficient shooting (1. 16 points per chance) when the Knicks blitz Maxey highlights a potential weakness. If Embiid returns, the Knicks might dial back that pressure, but Maxey will need to move faster and release quicker when faced with a blitz. Inside the paint, New York has outscored the Sixers by 52 points over two games (114‑62). The Knicks have shot an impressive 69. 5 % in that zone, while the Sixers’ paint efficiency has dipped to 39. 9 %. Although Paul George’s free‑throw attempts have helped the Sixers gain a 15‑point edge at the line, they still need to improve both offensive and defensive play inside if they want to win Game 3. In short, the series hinges on player availability and how each team adapts to interior pressure and perimeter blitzing. Fans should watch the health updates, the use of fouls against key players, and how quickly Maxey can adjust to defensive pressure.