Well, that was something else! What a game, what a series. And it all has a happy ending as the New York Knicks finished off the 76ers in game six 118-115 and are on to round two! This first round matchup was a heart stopper from the get go. Every time a team pulled away the other rallied back. They were attached at the hip and the combatants matched the intensity of their respective rabid fanbases. If there is a theme to game six, it was this pieces title, redemption!

The only good news that came out of the debacle that was game five was that the Knicks had two more chances to win the series. But they had to get up off the floor to do so. They were denied the ultimate party under the pinwheel ceiling. Many, myself included, doubted that they could get it done in Philly, as a Saturday night game seven felt inevitable. But credit this group, as they did what they have done all year, overcome adversity. They came out on fire, and didn’t blink at the end.

There were so many big plays from this one. Several of which came from Jalen Brunson who went for 41 points, and Donte DiVincenzo who redeemed his own self with 23 points and five three pointers. But no one responded to game five better than the Knicks “hart and soul,” Josh Hart! After missing the free throw that would have iced the series in game five, he knocked down another wide open triple to re-take the lead, while playing 46 minutes and collecting 16 points. Number three in Orange and blue define’s this groups identity and they would not be the same team without him. Oh, and we can’t ignore OG Anunoby who went for 19 points and put Joel Embiid on a poster.

Credit the Sixers and their two stars. Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid played brilliantly and battled through injury to push the Knicks to the limit. In the end it just wasn’t enough but I’m sure this isn’t the last time these teams will see each other in the playoffs. For the Knicks it’s onto round two, for a date with a familiar foe from decades past. Instead of Reggie Miller and Rick Smits it’s Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam as the Pacers enter round two fresh off beating the Bucks in six games.

Indiana presents an intriguing yet favorable matchup for the Knicks, one we’ll break down more before Monday’s game one at MSG. It should be a great few days at the Garden as the Rangers and Knicks round two matchups will be in full swing. For now enjoy this one Knicks fans, but save your voices for Monday!

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