The Philadelphia 76ers boast an 18-14 record this season, a winning percentage of 56.3%, placing them fifth in the Eastern Conference. They've shown signs of improvement lately, stringing together two consecutive wins against the Dallas Mavericks and Memphis Grizzlies. Their offensive firepower has been revitalised; in their January 2nd victory over the Mavericks, the 76ers secured a comfortable 123-108 win, displaying impressive scoring efficiency. Key guard Tyrese Maxey maintains his strong form, averaging 30.9 points and 7.2 assists per game, establishing himself as one of the league's top scorers. Maxey's combination of drives and outside shooting makes him a crucial offensive engine for the team. The New York Knicks face a tough test, with their defence under pressure. The team is dealing with injuries, as shooting guard Josh Hart and centre Mitchell Robinson are sidelined with ankle injuries. Centre Karl-Anthony Towns is also a doubt due to illness, and guard Landry Shamet is out with a shoulder injury. This significantly impacts their interior defence and depth, potentially creating a weakness for the 76ers to exploit. The Knicks have a strong home record this season. The electric atmosphere of Madison Square Garden will provide a significant boost for the home team. Match direction: New York Knicks -3.5