“Last time we played the Knicks it felt like this was Madison Square Garden East. So we’re going to need the support,” said Joel Embiid ahead of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks on May 3, 2026.
The Philadelphia 76ers and Knicks will clash at Madison Square Garden. This matchup marks the start of the Eastern Conference semifinals. The Knicks advanced by defeating the Atlanta Hawks in six games, while the 76ers rallied from a 3-1 deficit to overcome the Boston Celtics.
Key facts:
- The 76ers lead the playoff series 6-4 against the Knicks.
- The Knicks finished the regular season with a record of 53-29.
- The 76ers concluded their regular season at 45-37.
- New York is favored by 7.5 points in Game 1.
- The over/under for total points scored is set at 213.5.
Embiid’s comments reflect a heightened rivalry between these teams. He urged fans not to sell tickets to Knicks supporters, emphasizing their importance in creating a home-court advantage. “Knicks fans, they travel,” he noted.
Josh Hart, a key player for New York, acknowledged the persistence of New Yorkers. “Good thing about New Yorkers, man, they’re persistent. They don’t care, bro. They’re going to do it, man,” he said.
As both teams prepare for this critical game, uncertainties loom over player availability. Joel Embiid is probable to play, while Jeremy Sochan is questionable for New York.
This playoff series continues a long history between these two franchises. The last time they met in the playoffs was in 2024 when the Knicks emerged victorious.