Preview: Knicks, 76ers Set for Pivotal Eastern Conference Clash PHILADELPHIA (Interstat) — The New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers, two teams jockeying for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference, will meet Wednesday night at Xfinity Mobile Arena in a rematch of a recent thriller. The Knicks (35-20) enter with the better record but are coming off a draining 137-134 overtime loss to Indiana on Tuesday. The 76ers (30-23) look to rebound after a 135-118 defeat in Portland on Monday. This marks the fourth meeting this season, with Philadelphia holding a 2-1 series edge. However, New York won the most recent matchup 112-109 here on Jan. 24, fueled by 31 points from Jalen Brunson. Brunson remains the focal point for New York. The guard is averaging 28.6 points and 6.9 assists over his last 10 games, including a 40-point effort in Tuesday’s loss. His duel with Philadelphia’s Tyrese Maxey will be critical. Maxey is averaging 24.4 points and 6.5 assists in that same span and scored 22 in the Jan. 24 loss to the Knicks. Despite New York’s superior record, statistical models show a tight contest. National Statistical’s ELO system gives Philadelphia a slight 50.7% probability to win. Oddsmakers, however, have installed the Knicks as 2-point favorites. The over/under is set at 223.5 points. The game carries weight for the standings. New York aims to solidify its top-four seeding, while Philadelphia seeks to gain ground and protect its home court. Both teams have struggled defensively of late, with each allowing 118 or more points in their last outing, suggesting another high-scoring affair could be in store. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST Wednesday.