The next game has a different feel. The Knicks head into Philadelphia 76ers up 2-0, but anybody who has watched this team long enough knows a series can turn fast when the road gets louder and if there are a few familiar names on the injury report.
That is what makes Game 3 so tense. New York has control on paper, yet two warning signs are sitting right in front of us before the ball even goes up at 7 p.m. ET.
Knicks Face Real Injury Trouble With OG Anunoby And Josh Hart
GettyNew York Knicks star OG Anunoby is officially listed as questionable for Game 3.
The first danger is the most obvious one, and maybe the most important. OG Anunoby is questionable with a right hamstring strain, Josh Hart is questionable with a left thumb sprain, and Mitchell Robinson is probable with an illness.
As expected OG Anunoby QUESTIONABLE – right hamstring strain – day to day per reports
Mitchell Robinson upgraded PROBABLE – illness
OG has been brilliant, averaging 21.4 points in the playoffs while shooting 61.9 percent from the field and 53.8 percent from three. He also gave the Knicks 18 points in Game 1 and 24 more in Game 2 vs 76ers.
Hart matters just as much in a different way. He played 44 minutes in Game 2 and posted five points, seven rebounds, and six assists, while doing all the chemistry work that keeps New York connected. If his thumb limits his ball security, passing, or shooting, the Knicks lose one of their toughest glue guys.
There is some long-term comfort around Anunoby. ESPN reported “it’s not believed to be a serious strain,” but hamstrings are tricky, especially in May. Even a small dip in movement can open the door for Tyrese Maxey and Philadelphia’s wings.
Philadelphia 76ers Can Turn Home Court Into Real Series Problem
GettyNew York Knicks vs 76ers Game 3
The second reason to be concerned is the building itself. Philly is very much in need, and a very desperate home team is quite dangerous. The Sixers have demonstrated in Game 2 that they are capable of dragging this series into a grind, and now with their crowd, energy, and emotions backing them, it will be very tough for the other side.
Also, in recent interviews, Joel Embiid has urged 76ers fans to come to games. and also their website reads:
“Xfinity Mobile Arena is located in Philadelphia, PA. Sales to this event will be restricted to residents of Greater Philadelphia area. Residency will be based on credit card billing address. Orders by residents outside Greater Philadelphia area will be canceled without notice and refunds given.”
As a Knicks fan, that is the part that sticks with me. A 2-0 lead feels great, but it can also hide how thin the margin is. New York won Game 2 by six, and if Hart or OG are limited, every Philly run is going to feel bigger in that arena.
The Knicks still have the edge. They just do not have much room for error, and Game 3 looks like the kind of night that demands every bit of their toughness.
Two Huge Reasons the Knicks Are in Danger of Losing Game 3 vs 76ers