RealGM Basketball Wiretap

11 May 2026

• Joel Embiid Expresses Optimism About Health Next Season

  Joel Embiid struck an optimistic tone about his health Sunday after the Philadelphia 76ers were swept by the New York Knicks, vowing to be more available next season following another injury-plagued postseason. Philadelphia has now failed to reach the conference finals for the 25th consecutive year.

  "I'm as confident as I've ever been," Embiid said after the 144-114 Game 4 loss. "I'm looking at next year, obviously being more available. I know that if I'm available and I play as much as possible, everything else is going to follow."

  Embiid has averaged just 49 games per season across 10 years, not counting two seasons missed entirely at the start of his career. This postseason he dealt with an emergency appendectomy, right hip and ankle injuries and the lingering effects of returning too quickly from surgery. He missed Game 2 against New York and was compromised throughout the series.

  "Even the things that I've been dealing with, they've all been related to the surgery," Embiid said. "Because coming back early and the core is kind of weak, everything else is affected. Everything else is out of place."

  Embiid finished the postseason averaging 24 points, 7.3 rebounds and 5.4 assists across seven games. He was particularly effective in Games 5-7 against Boston in the first round, leading Philadelphia back from a 3-1 deficit for the first time in franchise history.

  Nick Nurse praised Embiid's effort despite the circumstances.

  "I commend him. He worked his ass off to get out there and play."

  Embiid said the troublesome left knee that limited him to 19 games last season and 38 this year has been addressed, and he plans to spend the offseason working on his game rather than rehabbing for the first time in years. Embiid has all three seasons remaining on his three-year $187.8 million extension signed in September 2024. Embiid will make $57.98 million in 2026-27, $62.62 million in 2027-28 and $67.26 million in 2028-29, which is a player option.

  "Tonight, they were just better," Embiid said of the Knicks. "We just got to get better from top to bottom. Ownership, front office, players, coaches, everybody just got to get better."

• Knicks Sweep 76ers With Record-Setting 144-114 Win, Return To Eastern Conference Finals

  The New York Knicks reached the Eastern Conference finals for the second straight season Sunday, sweeping the Philadelphia 76ers with a record-setting 144-114 victory at Xfinity Mobile Arena. New York has outscored opponents by 19.4 points per game this postseason, the largest differential by any team entering the conference finals since the NBA expanded to 16 playoff teams in 1983-84.

  The Knicks made 11 three-pointers in the opening quarter, an NBA postseason record, and 18 in the first half, tying the all-time single-game high for any half in league history. Their 144 points represent a franchise playoff record.

  Unlike the emotional series win over the Boston Celtics last season in the Eastern Conference semifinals, the mood in the visitor's locker room was notably measured.

  "No relief, no jubilation. Just another step in the process," forward Josh Hart said. "Here, it's business as normal, and we gotta make sure we're locked in and focused."

  Hart also took aim at the home crowd, which was largely taken over by visiting Knicks supporters. Hart, Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges played collegiately in Philadelphia for Villanova.

  "I used to think Philly was a sports town. I don't know if it is anymore," he said. "It never felt like a road game."

  Sixers guard Tyrese Maxey acknowledged the uncomfortable atmosphere.

  "It absolutely sucks," he said. "It felt louder in here for them than it did in the Garden."

  Brunson scored 22 points, including six three-pointers, averaging 29 points for the series. Karl-Anthony Towns averaged 7.5 assists from the center position across the four games despite persistent foul trouble.

  Miles McBride started in place of the injured OG Anunoby and hit seven three-pointers, including three straight during the record-setting first quarter. The Knicks will await the winner of the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers series, giving Anunoby additional time to recover from a right hamstring strain.

  "Our expectations are a championship, nothing less," McBride said.

• How To Watch 76ers Vs Knicks East Semifinals Game 4: Live Stream, TV Channel, Predictions

  How to watch Knicks vs. 76ers Game 4

  Today's Game 4 will be broadcast on Fubo.

  Category	Details
  Date	Sunday, May 10, 2026
  Tip-Off Time	3:30 PM ET / 12:30 PM PT
  Live Stream	Fubo
  Venue	Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, PA

  The Eastern Conference Semifinals reach a boiling point this Sunday, May 10, as the Philadelphia 76ers host the Knicks for a high-stakes Game 4. After the Sixers clawed their way back into the series with a narrow 108-104 victory on Friday, they now have the opportunity to pull even at 2-2 before the series shifts back to the Garden. For the visiting Knicks, a win today would provide a dominant 3-1 lead and a chance to close out the series at home. Watch the drama unfold live on Fubo.

  Friday's Game 3 was a physical, defensive grind that saw Joel Embiid assert his dominance in the paint, finishing with 28 points and 11 rebounds. The Knicks remained competitive thanks to another stellar performance from Jalen Brunson, who contributed 31 points, but the visitors struggled with perimeter shooting in the final minutes. To bounce back today, the Knicks will need Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges to provide more consistent offensive support to balance the Sixers' home-court energy. Witness the tactical battle live on Fubo.

  The spotlight remains on the backcourt duel between Brunson and Philadelphia's Tyrese Maxey. The Sixers will look to Paul George to maintain his defensive pressure while providing the secondary scoring needed to overcome the Knicks' length. Expect a deafening atmosphere at Xfinity Mobile Arena as the local fans look to propel their team to a series-leveling win. Catch every highlight and game-winning shot streaming live on Fubo.

  Philadelphia's ability to control the boards and the Knicks' response to the Sixers' physical defense will be the deciding factors today. You can witness this Eastern Conference showdown live on Fubo.

  Knicks vs. 76ers Game 4 Odds & Prediction

  The 76ers enter Game 4 as slight home favorites following their gritty Game 3 performance. Oddsmakers believe the momentum from their recent win and the hostile environment in Philly give the hosts the edge to even the series.

  Betting Line	76ers -3.5
  Over/Under	211.5
  Moneyline	PHI -165 | KNI +140

  Prediction: Expect a game of runs. While the Knicks have shown they can win in any environment, Philadelphia's desperation to avoid a 3-1 deficit will likely fuel a high-intensity start. If Joel Embiid stays aggressive, the Sixers should be able to hold off a late charge from Jalen Brunson. Final Score: 76ers 105, Knicks 101.

  Series Key Performers

  The duel between Jalen Brunson and Joel Embiid has lived up to its billing, with both stars acting as the primary engines for their respective teams.

  Knicks Player Stats (Series Avg)	Points	Assists	Rebounds	FG%
  Jalen Brunson (G)	31.3	6.8	2.3	51.5%
  Karl-Anthony Towns (C)	17.5	2.3	11.3	49.0%

  The 76ers rely on Joel Embiid for interior scoring, while Tyrese Maxey provides explosive playmaking from the perimeter.

  76ers Player Stats (Series Avg)	Points	Rebounds	Assists	FG%
  Joel Embiid (C)	25.7	10.3	4.3	47.5%
  Tyrese Maxey (G)	21.3	4.5	6.5	45.2%

  Stream the NBA Playoffs on Fubo

  Fubo is the ultimate destination for basketball fans this postseason. Don't miss a single highlight as the Knicks and 76ers battle for Eastern Conference supremacy with a flexible streaming experience.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  What is the current series score?
  The Knicks currently lead the best-of-seven series 2-1 following Philadelphia's win in Game 3.

  When is Game 4 tip-off?
  Game 4 is scheduled for today, Sunday, May 10, at 3:30 PM ET at Xfinity Mobile Arena.

  Where can I stream Game 4?
  You can stream the game live on Fubo with an active subscription.

  This article contains affiliate links. When you purchase through the links provided, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Restrictions may apply.

• Mike Brown Credits Mikal Bridges' Defense With Knicks' Game 3 Win At 76ers

  The New York Knicks beat the Philadelphia 76ers 108-94 to win Game 3 and take a 3-0 series lead.

  With the Knicks holding the Sixers to just 18 points in the fourth quarter, coach Mike Brown credited Mikal Bridge's defense on Tyrese Maxey for the win.

  "I would be not doing my job if I didn't point out the continued work that Mikal is doing at the point of attack when it comes to Maxey," Brown said. "You're not going to stop him. You hope he misses a few shots, but you have to give multiple efforts and Mikal is busting his behind trying to do that."

  Maxey finished the game with 17 points and 7 assists.

  Jalen Brunson lead the Knicks with 33 points, with Bridges adding 23. OG Anunoby sat the game with a hamstring injury.

  "Just trying to do whatever it takes to win," Bridges said. "Beginning of the playoffs, knowing that all 82 regular-season (games) means a lot, but there's another season after."

  Brunson also echoed Brown's commitment to the defensive end.

  "I think the most important thing is to rely on our defense," Brunson said. "There's gonna be times the ball is going through the hoop and when it's not, we have to control the things we can control."

  Game 4 takes place on Sunday with the Knicks favored by 1.5 points to close out the sweep of Philadelphia.

• How To Watch 76ers Vs Knicks East Semifinals Game 3: Live Stream, TV Channel, Predictions

  How to watch Knicks vs. 76ers Game 3

  Friday's Game 3 will be broadcast on Prime Video.

  Category	Details
  Date	Friday, May 8, 2026
  Tip-Off Time	7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT
  Live Stream	Prime Video
  Venue	Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, PA

  The Eastern Conference Semifinals move to the City of Brotherly Love this Friday, May 8, as the Philadelphia 76ers host the New York Knicks for a must-win Game 3. Following two dominant performances in New York, the third-seeded Knicks arrive in Pennsylvania with a 2-0 series lead. For the 76ers, the mission is simple: protect the newly renamed Xfinity Mobile Arena or face a nearly impossible 0-3 deficit. Catch every high-stakes moment live on Prime Video.

  New York has been the story of the postseason so far, following a 137-98 blowout in Game 1 and a resilient 116-107 victory in Game 2. Jalen Brunson has been virtually unstoppable, averaging 35 points in the series, while Karl-Anthony Towns has provided the interior spacing that has frustrated Philadelphia's defensive schemes. To get back into the series tonight, the 76ers must find a way to ignite Paul George and Tyrese Maxey early to alleviate the pressure on a laboring Joel Embiid. Witness the tactical battle live on Prime Video.

  The spotlight shifts to Philadelphia's home-court advantage, where the crowd at Xfinity Mobile Arena is expected to be deafening. The 76ers will need Kelly Oubre Jr. and their bench to provide more production after being outscored by the Knicks' reserves in the opening games. New York, meanwhile, hopes to maintain their physical defensive identity, led by OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges, to prevent a Philadelphia rally. Expect a physical, playoff-grind atmosphere as these Atlantic Division rivals clash once again.

  Philadelphia's ability to control the defensive boards and limit Jalen Brunson's paint penetration will be the deciding factor in Game 3. You can witness this Eastern Conference semifinal showdown streaming live on Prime Video.

  Knicks vs. 76ers Game 3 Odds & Prediction

  Despite being down 0-2, the 76ers enter Game 3 as slight home favorites. Oddsmakers believe the shift in venue and the "desperation factor" will settle the Sixers, though the Knicks' current form makes them a very popular pick to cover the spread.

  Betting Line	76ers -2.5
  Over/Under	212.5
  Moneyline	PHI -135 | NYK +115

  Prediction: Expect a much more disciplined defensive effort from Philadelphia in their home opener. While the Knicks have the momentum, the Sixers typically find their rhythm at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Look for Tyrese Maxey to have a breakout night to pull Philly back into the series. Final Score: 76ers 108, Knicks 104.

  Series Leaders Through Game 2

  The duel between Jalen Brunson and Tyrese Maxey continues to define the series, with Brunson currently holding the edge in efficiency and overall production.

  Knicks Key Player Stats (Series Avg)	Points	Assists	Rebounds	FG%
  Jalen Brunson (G)	35.0	3.0	2.0	63.0%
  Karl-Anthony Towns (C)	16.0	2.0	12.0	50.0%

  The 76ers rely on Paul George for perimeter scoring, while Joel Embiid remains the primary focus of the Knicks' interior defense.

  76ers Key Player Stats (Series Avg)	Points	Rebounds	Assists	FG%
  Paul George (F)	17.0	3.0	2.0	46.2%
  Joel Embiid (C)	11.0	8.0	4.0	33.3%

  Stream the NBA Playoffs on Prime Video

  Prime Video is the ultimate destination for NBA fans this postseason. Don't miss a single highlight as the Knicks and 76ers battle for Eastern Conference supremacy with a flexible streaming experience.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  What was the score of Game 2?
  The New York Knicks defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 116-107 on Wednesday night to take a 2-0 series lead.

  When is Knicks vs. 76ers Game 3?
  Game 3 is scheduled for Friday, May 8, at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, with tip-off at 7:00 PM ET.

  Who leads the series?
  The New York Knicks currently lead the best-of-seven series 2-0.

  This article contains affiliate links. When you purchase through the links provided, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Restrictions may apply.

• Jalen Brunson Scores 26 Points In Knicks' Game 2 Win Over 76ers

  The New York Knicks defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 108-102 in Game 2 to take a 2-0 series lead on Wednesday night.

  The game featured 25 lead changes, the most for a playoff game in 11 years. Neither team lead by more than seven points in the game.

  "Most importantly, it's staying poised, staying composed," Jalen Brunson, who scored 26 points, said. "Just figuring out one just play at a time, one step at a time and not looking too far ahead."

  OG Anunoby had 24 points, though he left for the locker room late in the game due to an apparent leg injury. Coach Mike Brown had no status update afterwards.

  76ers head coach Nick Nurse said that his team was getting good looks despite the loss.

  "I thought we had maybe four wide-open shots in a row that didn't go," Nurse said. "We just needed to keep the scoreboard moving and we played great offense. We just didn't shotmake."

  Joel Embiid missed the game with hip and ankle injuries.

  Game 3 moves to Philadelphia on Friday with the Sixers favored by 1.5 points with the possibility of Anunoby being unavailable.

• Jared McCain 'Definitely Hurt' By 'Sold High' Comment After Trade From Sixers

  Jared McCain's arrival with the Oklahoma City reflects the kind of calculated, forward-looking roster construction that has defined Sam Presti's tenure. Philadelphia traded the young guard after VJ Edgecombe emerged as a backcourt cornerstone and McCain's injured knee raised durability concerns, with the Sixers receiving a 2026 Houston Rockets first-round pick and three second-rounders in return.

  Sixers GM Daryl Morey declared publicly that Philadelphia had "sold high" on McCain.

  "It definitely hurts," McCain said of the comment. "In my opinion, I try to prove the people right that really believe in me, whether it's my family, my support system. It's not about proving the team wrong or whatever, proving the GM wrong. Whatever he said, that's his opinion. I just try and be myself and not worry about that."

  McCain had finished seventh in Rookie of the Year voting the previous season despite appearing in just 23 games, a performance that kept him on the radar of teams willing to bet on his potential.

  McCain connected on nearly 40 percent of his three-point attempts since joining the Thunder, providing reliable perimeter shooting during the team's regular season stretch run.

  McCain has embraced the environment around a veteran roster with championship experience.

  "It's been amazing, man," McCain said. "It's been a blessing just to get to learn from these guys. They already have championships, and just being able to soak in whatever they're able to tell me and ask questions and do as much as I can to contribute."

• Joel Embiid Out For Game 2 With Ankle, Hip Injuries

  Joel Embiid has been ruled out of Game 2 against the New York Knicks by the Philadelphia 76ers due to ankle and hip injuries.

  Embiid was unable to participate in shootaround on Wednesday morning after experiencing soreness in both his ankle and hip.

  Embiid has been receiving around-the-clock treatments in hopes of playing Game 2. The Sixers enter Game 2 with a 0-1 series deficit to the Knicks.

  The Sixers won Game 2 at the Boston Celtics in the first round despite playing without Embiid.

• SIxers-Celtics Game 7 Averages 10.99M Viewers, Biggest Audience For First-Round Game Since 1999

  Saturday night's Game 7 between the Philadelphia 76ers and Boston Celtics averaged 10.99 million viewers on NBC.

  It is the largest audience for a first-round game since Game 5 of Jazz-Kings in 1999.

  Viewership peaked at 12.6 million viewers.

  Sunday's Game 7 between the Cavs and Raptors averaged 7.0 million viewers. Game 7 between the Magic and Pistons earlier in the day averaged 5.7 million viewers on ABC.

  NBC's 15 playoff games averaged 5.5 million viewers, up 61% from last year.

• How To Watch 76ers Vs Knicks East Semifinals Game 2: Live Stream, TV Channel, Predictions

  How to watch 76ers vs. Knicks Game 2

  Wednesday's Game 2 will be broadcast on Fubo.

  Category	Details
  Date	Wednesday, May 6, 2026
  Tip-Off Time	7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT
  Live Stream	Fubo
  Venue	The Garden

  The Eastern Conference Semifinals continue at the world's most famous arena this Wednesday, May 6, as the Knicks aim to maintain their momentum against the Philadelphia 76ers. The third-seeded Knicks delivered a historic 137-98 statement in Game 1, fueled by an offensive explosion that left the visitors searching for answers. For the 76ers, tonight is a chance to reset after a quick turnaround from their first-round battle. Catch every high-stakes moment live on Fubo.

  Game 1 was a clinic in efficiency for Jalen Brunson, who poured in 35 points in just 31 minutes of action. The Knicks shot a blistering 56% from the field, while OG Anunoby and Karl-Anthony Towns combined to stifle the Philadelphia interior. The 76ers saw Joel Embiid struggle with physical fatigue following his Game 7 heroics over the weekend, managing just 11 points on 3-of-9 shooting. To level the series, Philadelphia must regain their defensive composure and find a secondary scoring spark to alleviate the pressure on Tyrese Maxey. Witness the tactical battle live on Fubo.

  The spotlight remains on the health of the superstars. The Knicks enter tonight's contest with the luxury of fresh legs, having won four straight games by a total of 135 points. Meanwhile, the 76ers are looking to veteran Paul George to provide the perimeter spacing needed to pull the Knicks' defense away from the rim. Expect a physical, championship-level atmosphere as the fans at The Garden look to propel their team to a commanding 2-0 lead.

  The Knicks' ability to control the transition game and limit second-chance points will be the deciding factor in Game 2. You can witness this Eastern Conference semifinal showdown streaming live on Fubo.

  Knicks vs. 76ers Game 2 Odds & Prediction

  The Knicks enter Game 2 as home favorites following their dominant performance on Monday. Oddsmakers believe the momentum shift and Philadelphia's apparent fatigue make the hosts the clear choice to take a two-game series lead.

  Betting Line	Knicks -6.5
  Over/Under	215.5
  Moneyline	KNI -265 | PHI +215

  Prediction: While the 76ers are built on resilience, the Knicks are currently firing on all cylinders at home. Expect a much more competitive effort from Joel Embiid, but the depth and scoring versatility of the Knicks should eventually overwhelm the visitors in the second half. Final Score: Knicks 116, 76ers 104.

  Key Game 1 Performers

  The duel between Jalen Brunson and Tyrese Maxey remains the focus of the series, with both stars acting as the primary engines for their respective offenses.

  Knicks Key Player Stats (Game 1)	Points	Assists	Rebounds	FG%
  Jalen Brunson (G)	35	3	2	66.7%
  Karl-Anthony Towns (C)	16	2	12	50.0%

  The 76ers rely on Joel Embiid for interior scoring, while looking for Paul George to maintain his efficiency from the perimeter.

  76ers Key Player Stats (Game 1)	Points	Rebounds	Assists	FG%
  Joel Embiid (C)	11	8	4	33.3%
  Paul George (F)	17	3	2	46.2%

  Stream the NBA Playoffs on Fubo

  Fubo is the ultimate destination for NBA fans this postseason. Don't miss a single highlight as the Knicks and 76ers battle for Eastern Conference supremacy with a flexible streaming experience.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  What was the score of Game 1?
  The Knicks defeated the 76ers 137-98 on Monday night to lead the series 1-0.

  When is Knicks vs. 76ers Game 2?
  Game 2 is scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, at The Garden, with tip-off at 7:00 PM ET.

  Who leads the series?
  The Knicks currently lead the best-of-seven series 1-0.

  This article contains affiliate links. When you purchase through the links provided, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Restrictions may apply.