The Battle of the Atlantic: Knicks vs. 76ers Set for Epic First-Round Clash
The stage is set for a classic Eastern Conference rivalry to reignite as the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers meet in the 2024 NBA Playoffs. This series promises to be a true toss-up, with oddsmakers suggesting either team could walk away with the win.
We have seen the Knicks priced as low as -105 (betonline) and the 76ers priced as low as +100 (Wagerweb)
Key Storylines
- Embiid’s Impact: Joel Embiid’s health is the biggest X-factor. He’s vital to the 76ers’ success, but his recent knee troubles raise questions about how effective he’ll be after missing significant time.
- Brunson vs. Maxey: The electrifying guard matchup between Jalen Brunson and Tyrese Maxey could determine who has the backcourt edge.
- Battle in the Paint: Can the Knicks’ deep center rotation contain Embiid? Mitchell Robinson and Isaiah Hartenstein are crucial.
- Pace of Play: Both teams play a slow, deliberate style, so expect a grind-it-out, low-scoring series.
Series Breakdown
- Historic Rivalry Renewed: These franchises have a storied playoff history, adding to the excitement and intensity.
- Season Series: While the Knicks went 3-1, Embiid’s limited participation makes these results less predictive.
- Schedule: The extended schedule is crucial. It favors Embiid as he works his way back to full strength.
- Trends to Watch: Keep those ATS figures in mind, as they could indicate where the betting value lies
Why the Knicks Could Win
- Homecourt Advantage: Madison Square Garden becomes a fortress in the playoffs.
- Depth at Center: New York can throw waves of bodies at Embiid and wear him down.
- Brunson’s Big-Game Experience: He’s proven he can rise to the occasion in the postseason.
Why the 76ers Could Win
- The Embiid Factor: If healthy, Embiid is nearly unstoppable and a potential MVP candidate.
- Maxey’s X-Factor: His explosiveness can swing tight games in Philly’s favor.
- Philly’s Road Warrior Mentality: They’ve had good recent success on the road, which could bode well for upsetting the Knicks.
Series Schedule:
Game 1: 76ers vs. Knicks on April 20 at 6 p.m. EDT (ESPN)
Game 2: 76ers vs. Knicks on April 22 at 7:30 p.m. EDT (TNT)
Game 3: Knicks vs. 76ers on April 25 at 7:30 p.m. EDT (TNT)
Game 4: Knicks vs. 76ers on April 28 at 1 p.m. EDT (ABC)
Game 5: 76ers vs. Knicks on April 30 (if necessary, time and channel TBD)
Game 6: Knicks vs. 76ers on May 2 (if necessary, time and channel TBD)
Game 7: 76ers vs. Knicks on May 4 (if necessary, channel TBD)
Prediction
This series promises to go the distance. Despite Embiid’s uncertain status, the 76ers have enough firepower and defensive tenacity to make this a true war of attrition. If Embiid regains his dominant MVP form, the scales tip heavily in Philly’s favor. However, the Knicks’ depth and home-court advantage might be just enough to push them through in a grueling Game 7.
Lastly, the grueling series, if it goes deep, could take it’s toll on the Big Guy. He tweaked his knee the other night and is at about 75% currently.
Our Pick – Knicks in 7