The New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers wrapped up their preseason series in Abu Dhabi on Saturday, capping off two intriguing matchups at Etihad Arena that drew fans from across the globe. Indeed, the event, now in its fourth year, showcased the NBA's growing international footprint, but it wasn't without its hiccups for both teams. The Knicks, coming off a solid summer, managed to secure victories in both games, though not without raising some eyebrows over player health.
In the opener on October 2, New York pulled away late for a 99-84 win, relying on balanced scoring from their bench while the 76ers struggled with turnovers and poor shooting. Josh Hart, the Knicks' versatile forward, exited early with what appeared to be a hand injury, a moment that tempered the celebration. Still, the team adapted, with Jalen Brunson dropping 18 points to lead the charge. For Philadelphia, the loss highlighted ongoing questions about depth beyond their star duo, even if Joel Embiid and Paul George sat this one out to preserve energy for the regular season.
However, the second game on October 4 proved tighter, as the 76ers mounted a comeback only to fall short in a 102-95 defeat. Tyrese Maxey shone for Philly with 22 points, injecting some rhythm into an otherwise disjointed offense. The Knicks, meanwhile, leaned on their defense, forcing 15 turnovers and capitalizing on fast breaks. Yet, the atmosphere in Abu Dhabi—complete with cultural excursions like camel rides for Knicks legends—added a layer of spectacle that sometimes overshadowed the on-court action. Moreover, travel fatigue seemed to creep in, evident in the choppy play from both sides.
These exhibitions offer glimpses into rotations and chemistry, but they also underscore the NBA's bold push into new markets. As the teams head back stateside, one wonders how these desert duels will influence their early-season form.