NBA Playoffs Game 3 Knicks vs Sixers: Game Preview and Prediction

New York Knicks @ Philadelphia 76ers Game 3 Game Details

Date: Friday, May 8, 2026

Time: 7:00 PM ET

Location: Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, PA

TV: Prime Video

Betting Line: 76ers -1.5

Over/Under: 213.5

Knicks vs 76ers Prediction & Game Preview

This Eastern Conference playoff matchup between the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers shifts into a defining Game 3 showdown built on momentum, desperation, and playoff pressure.

New York enters this matchup riding strong momentum after a hard-fought 108-102 victory in Game 2. What once appeared to be a tightly contested series has now turned into a statement stretch fueled by physical play and disciplined execution. Now heading on the road, the Knicks carry both the confidence and psychological edge into Game 3.

Philadelphia, meanwhile, finds itself reeling after dropping the first two games of the series. The 76ers must regroup quickly and overcome both the pressure of a must-win situation and the uncertainty surrounding key injuries. With their season on the line, Philadelphia faces a critical challenge in rediscovering offensive rhythm and interior presence.

From a betting perspective, this matchup centers on momentum versus desperation. New York brings confidence and physicality, while Philadelphia must rediscover its identity under pressure.

Top 4 Prop Bets

Prop Bet #1: Jalen Brunson Under 26.5 Points

DraftKings

4.6/5

Tip: Brunson Under 26.5 Points

• Matchup
• Efficiency
• Value

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Jalen Brunson faces a tougher defensive setup in Game 3 after Philadelphia adjusted its coverage in the previous game. With more length and pressure applied, his efficiency could take a hit, especially on the road where free throw opportunities tend to decrease. Expect a high-volume but less efficient scoring night.

Prop Bet #2: Tyrese Maxey Over 6.5 Assists

Caesars

4.5/5

Tip: Maxey Over 6.5 Assists

• Usage
• Playmaking
• Value

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Tyrese Maxey remains Philadelphia’s primary playmaker and offensive initiator. Whether Joel Embiid plays or not, Maxey’s role in facilitating offense will remain elevated. Increased usage and ball-handling responsibilities should lead to multiple assist opportunities.

Prop Bet #3: Karl-Anthony Towns Over 10.5 Rebounds

FanDuel

4.6/5

Tip: Towns Over 10.5 Rebounds

• Physicality
• Positioning
• Value

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Karl-Anthony Towns has been dominant on the glass, particularly in key moments. His physical advantage inside continues to be a major edge for New York, especially with Philadelphia’s frontcourt depth in question. Expect another strong rebounding performance.

Prop Bet #4: Game Total Under 213.5 Points

BetMGM

4.5/5

Tip: Under 213.5

• Defense
• Pace
• Value

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Game 3 adjustments typically lead to slower tempo and stronger defensive execution. Philadelphia will focus on tightening defensive rotations, while New York is comfortable playing a physical, low-scoring style. Both teams understanding the stakes supports a lower-scoring projection, making the under a strong value play.

The Matchup Context: History on the Line

Philadelphia looks to save its season, while New York aims to take a commanding 3-0 series lead.

Players to Watch

Jalen Brunson (Knicks): Offensive engine driving New York’s attack.

Tyrese Maxey (76ers): Primary playmaker carrying Philadelphia’s hopes.

Karl-Anthony Towns (Knicks): Interior presence controlling the paint.

Joel Embiid (76ers): The defining factor if available.

The Verdict

Prediction: 76ers 105, Knicks 101

Pick: 76ers -1.5 & Under 213.5

Desperation has shifted the pressure squarely onto Philadelphia, and playing at home with urgency gives them a slight edge in this matchup. While New York will compete with confidence, the 76ers’ need for a response should ultimately lead them to a narrow victory and keep the series alive.