Knicks, 76ers set for chance to add to postseason history

Key Points:

• The New York Knicks will face the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference second round, starting Monday at Madison Square Garden, after the 76ers completed a comeback against the Celtics without Jayson Tatum.
• The 76ers, seeded seventh, have been rejuvenated by the return of superstar Joel Embiid from appendicitis surgery, with Embiid averaging 28 points and nine rebounds in the series and playing alongside Paul George and Tyrese Maxey, who was especially dominant.
• The Knicks previously defeated the 76ers in a tight first-round series two years ago, and this matchup carries added intensity due to past physical play and injuries involving key players like Mitchell Robinson.
• The Knicks enter the series with confidence after overcoming a 2-1 deficit to eliminate the Hawks in six games, including a dominant 51-point victory in the clincher, marking their fourth consecutive season advancing past the first round.
• Knicks coach Mike Brown praised his team's resilience and connectedness, comparing their competitive spirit and belief to elite NBA Finals teams he has coached, while the team focuses on preparation without overthinking potential seeding scenarios.