Knicks win back-and-forth battle with Joel Embiid-less 76ers, take 2-0 series lead

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Knicks win back-and-forth battle with Joel Embiid-less 76ers, take 2-0 series lead

Knicks win back-and-forth battle with Joel Embiid-less 76ers, take 2-0 series lead

There was no blowout in Game 2. But the Knicks showed they can win a tight battle down the stretch.

Knicks win back-and-forth battle with Joel Embiid-less 76ers, take 2-0 series lead

There was no blowout in Game 2. But the Knicks showed they can win a tight battle down the stretch.

The New York Knicks proved they can win any way you like. After dominating the Philadelphia 76ers by historic margins in recent games, they showed their grit in a nail-biting 108-102 victory in Game 2 on Wednesday night. The win gives the Knicks a commanding 2-0 series lead and extends their playoff win streak to five games.

This time, there was no early knockout. The 76ers, playing without an injured Joel Embiid, came ready to fight. The game was a back-and-forth battle from the opening tip, with the lead changing hands 25 times — the most in a playoff game since 2015. Philadelphia even took a 90-89 lead into the fourth quarter, showing the kind of energy and freedom that comes when a dominant center isn't on the floor.

But the Knicks have built their identity on balance and resilience. With four players scoring 16 or more points, New York spread the wealth and stayed in control. The decisive moment came when Jalen Brunson hit a jumper with 5:06 remaining, giving the Knicks a 101-99 lead. That would be the final lead change of the night.

Down the stretch, the Knicks clamped down on defense while the 76ers went cold. Philadelphia's offense, which had looked so fluid without Embiid's limitations, unraveled with 18 turnovers. For the Knicks, it was another statement win — proving they can dominate with a blowout or grind out a tight victory when it matters most.

For fans watching at home, this series is a masterclass in playoff basketball. And whether you're repping a Brunson jersey or a classic Knicks tee, one thing is clear: this team has the heart to go the distance.

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