Sixers on Eight-Game Losing Streak Face Tough Knicks Challenge

NEW YORK, Feb. 26, 2025 — The Philadelphia 76ers are facing a significant challenge as they battle the New York Knicks this evening, having lost eight consecutive games and sinking further into the depths of the NBA standings.

After dropping games against teams like Toronto, Chicago, and Brooklyn, Philadelphia is preparing for a tougher stretch of opponents, including the Knicks, Warriors, and Celtics. Recent contests were viewed as manageable, but with rising difficulties ahead, the Sixers find themselves in a precarious position.

“If they were sinking against the dregs of the league, they’re about to go subterranean,” noted a sports analyst familiar with the team’s performance decline.

The Knicks, sitting at 37-20 and ranked third in the Eastern Conference, aim to solidify their playoff positioning. They are currently striving to close the gap with the top teams, namely Boston and Cleveland.

“Mitchell Robinson’s return isn’t going to suddenly make New York true contenders, but it does keep them in striking distance,” the analyst added. “Injuries to top players can swing a playoff series, and New York needs to capitalize.”

Meanwhile, the Sixers’ injury report grows increasingly dire. Joel Embiid is sidelined due to knee swelling, with speculation surrounding a potential season shutdown. Eric Gordon is slated for wrist surgery, and Guerschon Yabusele is also unavailable due to an eye injury.

In addition, Kyle Lowry and Jared McCain are out, while Justin Edwards (ankle) and Quentin Grimes (knee) are listed as probable. Paul George is marked as available.

New York’s injury situation is less troubling, although Robinson remains unavailable. Karl-Anthony Towns is questionable with a left knee issue, and OG Anunoby is probable due to a right foot sprain.

“What kind of organization plays a big man in spite of a knee problem?” the analyst questioned, highlighting the Knicks’ management decisions regarding player health.

As the 76ers move deeper into a tanking strategy, fans find themselves hoping for competitive performances, albeit preferring losses. “Can we get one of those fun games and hard-fought efforts that still end in defeat?” a frustrated fan voiced. “Those are definitely more entertaining than trailing Chicago by 50 points.”

Game details are as follows:

When: Wednesday, Feb. 26, 7:00 p.m.

Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

Watch: NBC Sports Philadelphia, ESPN

Radio: 97.5 The Fanatic

For continuous updates on the Philadelphia 76ers, follow Liberty Ballers for the latest news and analysis.