Preview: 76ers Look to Cool Surging Knicks at Madison Square Garden NEW YORK (Interstat) — The surging New York Knicks, owners of the Eastern Conference’s second-best record, will host the inconsistent Philadelphia 76ers in a key early-season matchup Friday night at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks (19-7) enter on a five-game winning streak, having won nine of their last 10. Their most recent victory was a 124-113 decision over the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday, powered by 28 points and nine rebounds from forward OG Anunoby. Anunoby has been a two-way force during the streak, averaging 21.2 points and 6.8 rebounds over his last five contests while anchoring the league’s third-ranked defense. “We’re playing connected basketball on both ends,” Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said after Tuesday’s win. “The challenge is to maintain that focus and intensity every night.” Philadelphia (14-11) arrives looking to steady itself after a 117-120 road loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday. The 76ers have alternated wins and losses over their last seven games. Star forward Paul George is coming off a 35-point performance in that defeat and is averaging 22.1 points over his last eight games. Center Joel Embiid remains a nightly MVP threat, posting 22 points and 14 rebounds against Atlanta. The matchup features a stark contrast in recent momentum. New York’s offense has averaged 125.2 points during its five-game run, while its defense has held opponents to 109.2 points per game in that span. Philadelphia’s defense, ranked in the middle of the league, will be tested by a balanced Knicks attack led by Jalen Brunson (25 points, 8 assists vs. San Antonio) and Karl-Anthony Towns. History adds intrigue, as the teams are scheduled to meet again at Madison Square Garden on Jan. 3. Friday’s contest is the start of a difficult back-to-back for the 76ers, who host the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday. The Knicks continue a four-game homestand Sunday against the Miami Heat. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. EST. The game will be televised on ESPN.