Knicks vs. Sixers Preview: Injury Watch as Two Eastern Powers Collide
The New York Knicks are heading into Philadelphia with a little momentum and a lot to prove. After absolutely dismantling the Brooklyn Nets in a 120-66 blowout - the largest margin of victory in franchise history - the Knicks are eyeing their first back-to-back wins since late December. But standing in their way is a Sixers squad that’s already taken two from them this season and has its own sights set on closing out a lengthy homestand on a high note.
This will be the third meeting between the two teams this season, and so far, it’s been all Sixers. Philly took the last matchup on January 3rd, 130-119, behind a strong offensive showing. Now, both teams come into Saturday’s clash with some key names on the injury report, which could significantly shape how this one plays out.
Knicks Injury Update: KAT Questionable
New York may be without one of its biggest weapons in the frontcourt. Karl-Anthony Towns is listed as questionable with thoracic back spasms. That’s a concern for the Knicks, especially considering the matchup looming with Joel Embiid on the other side.
Towns logged just 20 minutes in the win over Brooklyn - noticeably fewer than his fellow starters - and while the blowout nature of the game likely played a role, it’s clear the team is managing something with his back. He still managed to put up 14 points and eight rebounds in limited time, showing his usual efficiency.
Towns has been a steady presence all season, missing only three games so far, but his numbers have dipped a bit. He’s averaging 20.8 points per game - tied for the second-lowest mark of his career - and shooting 36% from deep, his lowest since his rookie year.
Aside from Towns, the rest of the Knicks’ injury list is made up of players on two-way contracts or G-League assignments. Pacome Dadiet and Trey Jemison III are out, while Mohamed Diawara and Ariel Hukporti are available. Kevin McCullar Jr. remains out as well.
Sixers Injury Report: Embiid Trending Toward Playing
Philadelphia’s got its own All-Star center on the injury report, but the outlook is more optimistic. Joel Embiid is probable as he manages a right ankle issue. That’s good news for the Sixers, especially given how dominant he’s been lately.
Embiid is fresh off a 46-minute marathon in an overtime win over the Rockets, where he posted a monster triple-double: 32 points, 15 boards, and 10 assists. He’s been a consistent force, suiting up for five of the last six games and ten of the last twelve.
Even more impressive? He’s scored 30+ in three straight outings.
Against the Knicks earlier this month, he tallied 26 points and 10 rebounds - and you can bet he’ll be looking to replicate or improve on that if he's good to go.
Paul George is also probable with left knee injury management. He returned to action against Houston, logging 37 minutes and finishing with 10 points, six rebounds, and four assists.
While it wasn’t his sharpest offensive night, George has shown he can impact the game in multiple ways. He had a more well-rounded performance in the January 3rd win over New York, putting up 15 points, eight boards, and six dimes.
Kelly Oubre Jr. is available and expected to play with a knee brace as he continues to recover from a left knee injury. He’s been active in the last nine games and has started the last three, giving the Sixers some added versatility on the wing.
MarJon Beauchamp and Johni Broome, both currently on G-League assignment, won’t be factors - Beauchamp is out, and Broome is doubtful.
What to Watch
With both teams potentially missing key frontcourt pieces, the battle in the paint could look very different depending on who suits up. If Towns can’t go, the Knicks will need to get creative to match up with Embiid’s size and skill - assuming the reigning MVP is in uniform. On the flip side, if both big men play, we’re in for a heavyweight battle between two of the league’s most talented centers.
The Sixers have already proven they can handle the Knicks this season, but New York’s coming in with renewed confidence after a historic win. If they can carry that energy into Philly - and get a healthy Towns on the floor - they’ll have a real shot at flipping the script.
Tip-off can’t come soon enough.