Philadelphia 76ers vs New York Knicks

On October 2, 2025, the New York Knicks secured a 99–84 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers in a preseason matchup at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. The game marked the beginning of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games, a series of international preseason games aimed at expanding the league’s global reach.

The Knicks showcased their depth and defensive prowess, with Mitchell Robinson leading the team with 16 rebounds and adding 7 points. Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 11 points and 5 rebounds, while Miles McBride led the bench with 12 points and 5 rebounds. Coach Mike Brown emphasized a faster pace, though the team struggled with turnovers and transition defense early on. The absence of OG Anunoby due to injury and the ejection of Josh Hart after a back injury further tested the team’s depth.

The 76ers faced challenges, particularly from beyond the arc, hitting only 3-of-36 three-point attempts. Despite the loss, Tyrese Maxey and rookie VJ Edgecombe stood out, each scoring 14 points. Maxey added four rebounds, four assists, a steal, and a block, while Edgecombe contributed six rebounds and three assists, though he went just 1-of-6 from three-point range. Key players Joel Embiid and Paul George were held out of the game, and the team’s performance from three-point range was historically poor, nearly tying a franchise low.

The game was marked by a concerning injury to Josh Hart, who suffered a lower back issue after landing awkwardly during a fast break. The incident appeared to be non-contact and occurred while Hart was guarded by Philadelphia’s Kennedy Chandler. Hart threw the ball into the stands in visible pain, leading to his ejection. He played only seven minutes, recording two points and three rebounds, and is considered day-to-day with a designation of “lower back soreness”.

Both teams are set to face each other again on October 4, 2025, at Etihad Arena, providing another opportunity for Philadelphia 76ers to improve their performance and for the Knicks to build on their preseason momentum.