Boldly predicting the 1st-round outcome of each potential Eastern Conference playoff series
By Ari Schwartz
4 vs 5: Knicks (No. 4) vs Philadelphia 76ers (No. 5)
The Knicks are currently 4th in the Eastern Conference with a 35-23 record, while Philadelphia has slipped to 5th at 33-24. Both teams have undergone injuries to their star players and it is unclear whether either team will be at full strength for the playoffs. Julius Randle, OG Anunoby, and Mitchell Robinson are currently on the injury list for New York, while Joel Embiid has been out with a torn meniscus since January.
Regardless of injuries though, New York has the upper hand coming into this matchup. The Knicks have two convincing wins against Philadelphia this season, one of which came before Embiid was injured.
If he comes back, Embiid will be the best player in the series, but the Knicks have a star of their own in Jalen Brunson and when healthy, a much stronger supporting cast than the 76ers. Overall, New York is a better more well-rounded team that should be able to advance from this series.