The Philadelphia 76ers were blown out by Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks in Game 1.
The Philadelphia 76ers were dominated by the New York Knicks in Game 1, losing 137-98.
Here are four major observations from Game 1:
Someone Needs To Stop Jalen Brunson
Finding an answer for Brunson on the defensive end felt impossible for the Sixers, especially in the first half. The three-time All-Star guard recorded 27 points before halftime on 10 of 14 shooting. He finished the night with 35 points, three assists, and two steals on 66.7% shooting and 3 of 6 shooting from three-point range in just 31 minutes of action.
For Philadelphia to have any chance of advancing, someone needs to at least slow down Brunson, or this will be a quick series.
Joel Embiid Must Be More Efficient
Aggression on the offensive end has never been an issue for Embiid, but the same cannot be said for his efficiency. 'The Process' recorded just 14 points and four rebounds on 3 of 11 shooting in 25 minutes played.
The bottom line is the Philadelphia offense has to run through Embiid for it to be successful enough to defeat a loaded Knicks squad. Yes, Tyrese Maxey and Paul George can generate strong looks, but it starts with Embiid scoring with much more efficiency.
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid. © Brad Penner-Imagn ImagesThe Knicks' Supporting Stars Shined
Brunson thrived, but he wasn't alone, as Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby had impressive outings.
Towns ended with 17 points, six rebounds, six assists, and two blocks on 7 of 11 shooting and 3 of 5 shooting from the arc. Bridges was contributing at a high level on both ends of the floor, concluding with 17 points, five assists, and a steal on 70% shooting. Finally, Anunoby added 18 points on 7 of 8 shooting in 30 minutes.
Quentin Grimes Has To Step Up
It's clear even after a single game, the 76ers need a true X-factor to win this series. The hope all season is Grimes is capable of being that player, and now more than ever, Philadelphia needs him to be.
He tallied only five points and four assists on 25% shooting in 24 minutes in Game 1. These numbers simply won't cut it out of the Sixers' sixth man.
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