Paul Reed 07262023

Paul Reed is optimistic about his team’s prospects in the first round of the NBA Playoffs.

The Philadelphia 76ers managed to avoid facing the formidable Boston Celtics and instead will match up against the perceived “easier” New York Knicks. The No. 7 76ers will take on the No. 2 Knicks in a seven-game series commencing on Saturday.

Paul Reed expressed his team’s journey to this point, highlighting their dramatic comeback from a 14-point deficit against the Miami Heat in the Play-In Tournament. Their narrow 105-104 victory, aided by some heroics from Nicolas Batum, propelled them to secure the No. 7 seed following a 47-35 regular season record.

On the other hand, the New York Knicks concluded the regular season with an impressive 50-32 record, despite facing multiple injuries to key players.

Reed’s full comments on the matchup and the comparison between the two teams would provide further insights into their preparation and outlook for the upcoming series.

What did Paul Reed say about the Knicks?

Reed made sure listeners knew he wasn’t afraid of the Knicks when he joined FanDuel Sports’ “Run It Back” with Shams Charania, Chandler Parsons, Lou Williams, and Michelle Beadle on Thursday.

“We ain’t ducking no smoke, but yeah, we wanted the Knicks matchup, of course. That’s the easier team I guess,” Reed said. “But you know it’s going to be fun, we match up pretty well. They got a great guard, we got a great guard, we also got Joel, MVP, so like you said earlier, he’s one of the most unstoppable guys in the league right now. They’re gonna have to send triple teams, and he’s gonna get everybody else involved.”

Not only did Reed admit the 76ers wanted the Knicks’ matchup, but he was relieved to not have to play the Celtics. The Celtics dominated the Eastern Conference en route to the NBA’s best record of 64-18.

The Celtics will play the winner of No. 8 Heat/No. 9 Bulls in the first round of the playoffs.

How do the Knicks and 76ers match up?

Reed highlighted the favorable matchup between the No. 7 76ers and the No. 2 Knicks, emphasizing the significance of guard play and the presence of Joel Embiid.

For the Knicks, Jalen Brunson stands out as their primary playmaker, supported by a roster of solid role players such as O.G. Anunoby and Donte DiVincenzo. However, the absence of All-Star Julius Randle, sidelined with a shoulder injury since late January, presents a significant challenge for New York. Additionally, Mitchell Robinson’s limited availability due to an ankle injury further impacts the team’s frontcourt depth.

In the point guard matchup, Brunson faces off against Tyrese Maxey, with both teams boasting exceptional floor generals. However, Brunson’s standout performances down the stretch position him as a pivotal player for the Knicks.

While the 76ers rely on the reigning MVP, Joel Embiid, his ongoing health concerns, particularly his knee, remain a focal point of discussion. Despite any lingering issues, Embiid’s presence poses a significant threat to the Knicks’ defense.

Although New York features a formidable center duo in Isaiah Hartenstein and Mitchell Robinson, Robinson’s return to full form is uncertain, potentially affecting the team’s interior defense.

In terms of wing players, the Knicks hold a considerable advantage over the 76ers, unless Nicolas Batum can replicate his standout performance from the Play-In Tournament, and Kelly Oubre Jr. delivers a strong performance. Anunoby, DiVincenzo, and Hart have consistently contributed to the Knicks’ success alongside Brunson, providing a balanced and reliable offensive and defensive presence.

Knicks vs. 76ers playoff schedule 2024

Game


Site
Date
Time (ET)
TV channel

1
at New York
April 20
6 p.m.
ESPN

2
at New York
April 22
7:30 p.m.
TNT

3
at Philadelphia
April 25
7:30 p.m.
TNT

4
at Philadelphia
April 28
1 p.m.
ABC

5*
at New York
April 30
TBD
TBD

6*
at Philadelphia
May 2
TBD
TBD

7*
at New York
May 4
TBD
TNT