Misryoum reports the 76ers fell again to the Knicks in Game 3, trailing 3-0 as Nick Nurse stresses focusing on the next match.
A 3-0 deficit doesn’t just tighten the noose, it changes the way a team must think, and Nick Nurse’s message to the Philadelphia 76ers is clear: focus on the next game.
Philadelphia are one loss away from elimination after dropping Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals to the New York Knicks. 108-94. putting them in an unenviable 0-3 hole.. In his postgame stance. Nurse pointed to the reality of playoff history while keeping his group locked on the immediate task: extend the series one more night. then reassess.
Misryoum: When a series reaches a 0-3 scoreline, preparation has to shift from “catching up” to “surviving,” and that mental reset often becomes as important as any tactical tweak.
The setback came despite Joel Embiid returning to the lineup after missing Game 2 with right ankle and hip issues.. Embiid contributed 18 points with five assists and six rebounds. but his mobility appeared limited throughout. with several moments suggesting he was still working his way through contact.. Paul George helped spark an early rhythm for Philadelphia. scoring 15 in the first quarter as the Sixers opened with a 9-0 run and built a double-digit lead.
Still, New York took control of the flow by winning the physical moments that tend to swing playoff momentum.. The Knicks carved out a major bench edge. created second-chance opportunities. and carried that energy into the second half. turning Philadelphia’s early advantage into a halftime cushion.. The Knicks’ adjustments showed up in the scoreboard as the Sixers struggled to generate consistent scoring after the opening stretch.
Misryoum insight: In a series like this, the swing often comes from effort stats and finishing sequences, because a short burst from one team can force the other into rushed possessions for entire quarters.
Philadelphia did get standout production from Kelly Oubre Jr., who delivered a playoff career-best 22 points and eight rebounds.. Tyrese Maxey added 17 points and seven assists, though his sharp scoring came heavily after a slower first half.. On the other side. New York’s offensive burden was shared across its core: Jalen Brunson posted 33 points with nine assists. Mikal Bridges scored 23. and Josh Hart contributed 12 points and 11 rebounds as the Knicks pulled away late.
A fitness concern also hovered over the Knicks with OG Anunoby missing Game 3 due to a strained right hamstring and remaining day-to-day. Even without him, New York tightened the series and moved within one victory of a second straight Eastern Conference finals appearance.
Misryoum insight (final): For Philadelphia, Game 4 becomes more than a chance to avoid the sweep, it’s the one night where execution has to be clean from the opening tip, because the margin for error shrinks dramatically when you’re already down 3-0.