The New York Knicks have a golden opportunity to punch their ticket to the next round, but they'll have to do it without one of their key defensive anchors. As tip-off approaches for Game 4 against the Philadelphia 76ers, starting forward OG Anunoby has been ruled out for the second consecutive game due to a lingering hamstring injury.

Anunoby first aggravated the injury late in New York's Game 2 victory, and despite hopes for a quick return, head coach Mike Brown confirmed the forward's status during his pregame press conference. The Knicks managed just fine without him in Game 3, securing a win that gave them a commanding 3-0 series lead. Now, they're just one win away from a sweep—a feat that would send a loud message to the rest of the Eastern Conference.

On the other side of the court, the Sixers are clinging to hope. Star center Joel Embiid, who has been battling through a knee issue throughout the series, remains listed as probable for Sunday's must-win matchup. His presence on the floor could be the spark Philadelphia needs to extend the series and avoid an early exit.

For Knicks fans, the absence of Anunoby is a blow to their perimeter defense, but the team's depth has already proven capable. With a chance to close out the series on the road, all eyes will be on Madison Square Garden South—or rather, the Wells Fargo Center—as the drama unfolds.