The Philadelphia 76ers have been here before—and they know exactly how to handle it.

After pulling off a thrilling 3-1 series comeback in the first round, the Sixers stepped onto the court Monday for Game 1 of their second-round matchup against the New York Knicks. But the start was anything but promising. By halftime, Philadelphia found itself staring at a 23-point deficit, and the final score told an even tougher story: a 29-point loss that left fans searching for answers.

In the high-stakes world of NBA playoffs, such a lopsided defeat might send some teams into panic mode. But head coach Nick Nurse isn't hitting the alarm just yet. His postgame perspective was as measured as it was insightful.

"I know that wasn't fun. It wasn't any fun to sit there, to be a part of, to be honest, and watch," Nurse said. "But it's 0-1. It doesn't really matter if it's six points or 36. It's 0-1. You've got to wash that one away and get back."

Nurse's calm demeanor carries weight—especially considering this isn't unfamiliar territory. The Sixers dropped Game 1 of their first-round series against the Boston Celtics by a staggering 32 points, only to rally and advance. That experience serves as a powerful reminder that in the NBA playoffs, it's not about one game; it's about the long haul.

Unlike the NCAA tournament's single-elimination format, the NBA playoffs are a best-of-seven grind. Momentum shifts, adjustments are made, and no two games play out the same way. Monday's blowout may sting, but it counts as exactly one loss—nothing more.

For the 76ers, the beauty of the schedule is that they won't have to dwell on this defeat for long. Game 2 tips off Wednesday, offering an immediate chance to reset, regroup, and remind everyone why they're a championship contender.

Playoff blowouts often trigger overreactions, but the smart money says don't count Philadelphia out just yet. With the pieces they have—and a coach who's been through the fire—this series is far from over.