(Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images for SiriusXM)
The New York Knicks would’ve rather faced a different opponent in the first round of the playoffs.
The Philadelphia 76ers are always a big threat, and Joel Embiid is the reigning MVP for a reason.
Nonetheless, under the current circumstances, Stephen A. Smith believes they should have nothing to worry about.
In the latest edition of ESPN’s “First Take,” the controversial pundit stated that the only player who could pose any threat to the Knicks isn’t at 100% right now.
.@stephenasmith says the Knicks shouldn’t be worried about the 76ers
“The only person that’s going to be able to have an answer … is Embiid, who once again, is hobbled.” pic.twitter.com/DIB0r3OjEk
— First Take (@FirstTake) April 18, 2024
While he gave head coach Nick Nurse plenty of credit for the way he’s led this team, and while he loves Tyrese Maxey and believes he’s worthy of a max contract extension, he just doesn’t see the Knicks losing to the Sixers with home-court advantage and Embiid all hobbled up.
The Sixers are undefeated since Embiid came back into the lineup, but he’s clearly still limited.
His lateral quickness, quick first step, and explosiveness have all been compromised by his knee injury, and he might not be able to shake off the rust in time to make a big impact in this series.
Embiid has always left plenty to be desired in the postseason, mostly because of injuries.
And even though this seemed to be the perfect opportunity for the Sixers to avoid the Boston Celtics until the Eastern Conference Finals, they will need Embiid to be at his best to do so.
Also, with the way the Knicks are playing, especially on defense, the Sixers could be in for a very short series.
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