The Philadelphia 76ers recorded a statement win to open up their 2026-27 season, taking down the reigning NBA-champion New York Knicks with a 106-100 final score at Madison Square Garden. Joel Embiid put forth a vintage performance on the defensive side of the ball, recording three blocks and two steals in the victory. After the game, Embiid reportedly told his Philadelphia teammates that he's going to get back to being an elite defensive player this year.
"[Joel] Embiid had a declaration to make in the locker room after this one. He said, I'm going to get back to being an all-defensive team player," ESPN NBA insider Dave McMenamin reported after the game on Tuesday night. "And obviously, if he can do that, that gives all sorts of options for this team." The new-look 76ers delivered a balanced scoring attack from their four superstars.
Tyrese Maxey led the way with a game-high 28 points, while Jaylen Brown chipped in with 19, LeBron James with 14 and Embiid with 13. With a 1-0 record to begin the season, the 76ers now turn their attention toward a home-opener matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday night.
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