Draymond Green Drops Harsh Criticism on Jalen Brunson, Suggests the Only Way Knicks Can Salvage Playoff Series vs 76ers

The series between the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers has lived up to its pre-playoff hype and expectations. The Knicks had a shot to wrap up the series in Game 5, but the Sixers had other plans. Led by Tyrese Maxey’s incredible 46-point game, Philly snagged a vital victory. Now, the 76ers have pushed the series to Game 6, and it’s happening right on their home court.

Despite the Sixers’ home advantage, the New York Knicks are still considered the favorites to go through. However, if Philly forces a Game 7, all bets would be off. Therefore, all the pressure is on the Knicks to finish the job as soon as possible. Many feel that Jalen Brunson & Co. should have wrapped things up earlier, but their lack of playoff experience has been a hindrance. The serial winner of the Warriors, Draymond Green, falls into that category.

During the latest episode of the Draymond Green Show, the 34-year-old gave his two cents on the ongoing series between the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers. He affirmed backing the 76ers to win the series and progress to the next round because of New York’s playoff inexperience. However, he also suggested a solution for the Knicks, saying, “If you really made this (game 6) a must win, mentally. Coming out of that, if you lost, it’s gonna be tough to bounce back for Game 7. So if I’m a leader of that team, I’m pushing it as close to the line as I can because you understand that Game 7 is a coin flip.”

The New York Knicks have proven time and again that they have the tools to become a legitimate title contender. However, they need to prove their title credentials. And that begins tonight, in Game 6 against the 76ers.

Can the New York Knicks overcome the Sixers?

The New York Knicks have been one of the most consistent performers of the 2023–24 season. They finished the regular season as the 2nd seed in the Eastern Conference standings, with 49 wins from 82 matches. Out of all the NBA teams, only four managed to crack the top 10 in both offensive and defensive ratings this season. Alongside the Knicks, you’ve got the OKC Thunder, Denver Nuggets, and Boston Celtics in that exclusive club.

Therefore, the New York Knicks enter the playoffs with a genuine chance of threatening the Celtics’ dominance over the Eastern Conference. However, the Sixers have proved to be a tough nut to crack for the Knicks. Their problems are further exacerbated by Joel Embiid’s brilliance, despite carrying several knocks. Embiid has averaged 31.8 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 6.4 assists in 5 games.

Despite Embiid’s stellar performances, the Knicks’ have been relying on their solid defense and rebounding to hold things down. The New York Knicks have grabbed 225 boards during the series, whereas the Sixers could only manage to muster 201 rebounds. This gap in rebounds has been the deciding factor in this fiercely competitive series so far. But will it play out the same way in Game 6? Let us know in the comments below!