76ers, LeBron, & Knicks Face a Loaded Eastern Conference

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Sixers Manage LeBron and Embiid as Knicks Find Their Form

Before the season, there were concerns about how four high-usage players—Maxi, Brown, Joel Embiid, and LeBron James—would work together in Philadelphia. The most encouraging development so far has been the team’s defensive effort. Embiid has lost weight and is moving better laterally, while the team continues to compete defensively.

Philadelphia’s handling of back-to-back games will be worth watching. Last weekend, LeBron sat out one game and Embiid missed the other. Neither player is currently on the injury report, and both could play tonight before potentially sitting out tomorrow against Charlotte.

Nick Nurse will have a major role in managing minutes and keeping the team healthy, especially with Brown also questionable because of a knee issue. The primary goal should be to finish among the top six teams in the Eastern Conference and avoid the play-in tournament.

Philadelphia and New York could battle throughout the season, but the East is deep. Boston is better, Indiana is getting Halliburton back despite his injury, and Atlanta should be in the mix. Charlotte is also better than many people think, while Toronto adds to what should be a competitive conference. The idea that the West is clearly better does not reflect the quality of basketball in the East, and the champion could come from the conference this year.

The Knicks remain a true contender because of their continuity. After a difficult opening night that included a ceremony, New York has started to find its way. The team showed encouraging signs during the second half and fourth quarter against Chicago.

Brunson is also beginning to find his rhythm. After shooting only around 20% from three-point range, he made six three-pointers against Chicago and should continue improving.

Andre Drummond remains an important player to watch. He was benched two games ago because of his defensive play, but he recorded a double-double against Philadelphia on opening day. If he can hold the fort and become a defensive anchor for the second unit, New York should remain in contention until the end of the season.