The New York Knicks secured a hard-fought win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday in the opening game of their Eastern Conference first-round matchup. Despite missing injured star Julius Randle, the Knicks relied on a stellar performance from Josh Hart, who scored 22 points and grabbed 13 rebounds.
Hart’s exceptional perimeter shooting, connecting on 50% of his shots from the three-point line, proved crucial in giving the Knicks a spacing advantage. The Knicks now have an opportunity to take control of the series, but will need their role players, including Hart, to maintain their high level of play.
The Sixers, meanwhile, will need to adjust their defensive strategy and find a way to contain Hart’s perimeter threat. The series continues with Game 2 on Monday in Philadelphia.
