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If the Philadelphia 76ers are going to mount another comeback, it starts with slowing down Jalen Brunson in Game 3 tonight.
My Knicks vs. 76ers predictions lean toward Philly containing Brunson—or at least holding him under his elevated scoring line—with my NBA picks backing the Under for this Friday, May 8 matchup.
Knicks vs 76ers Game 3 prediction tonight
Knicks vs 76ers best bet: Jalen Brunson Under 26.5 points (-112)
Following his explosion in Game 1, the Philadelphia 76ers had to figure out a better way to defend Jalen Brunson.
The Sixers sent longer defenders at him in Game 2, utilizing Kelly Oubre Jr. and VJ Edgecombe, and Brunson finished just 9-for-21 from the field. The bulk of those shots came inside the key, which will be off limits if Joel Embiid returns in Game 3.
With OG Anunoby questionable, the Knicks’ rotation loses offensive punch, and Philadelphia can afford to put even more emphasis on defending Brunson.
Projections for Brunson are good but not great, ranging from 26.6 to just over 24 points on Friday.
Covers
COVERS INTEL:
Brunson has benefited from some “hometown calls” in the playoffs. He’s averaged 6.6 FTM on 7.8 FTA inside MSG but just 3.33 makes on 3.6 free throws on the road. That holds true for the entire season, averaging 6.1 FTM at home vs. 3.5 FTM on the road.
Knicks vs 76ers Game 3 same-game parlay
The 76ers played with better tempo in Game 2 and traded shots with the Knicks. Philadelphia allowed 56 points in the paint, but getting Embiid back puts an end to those easy looks inside. New York also could be without a significant scorer in Anunoby, leaving them with poor offensive options off the bench.
Paul George came out firing in Game 2 but cooled as the contest played out, still finishing with 19 points in the loss. George has quietly come through for Over bettors on his scoring prop in four of his last five games. He’s forecasted for 17+ points back in Philly on Friday.
Knicks vs 76ers SGP
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Jalen Brunson Under 26.5 points
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Paul George Over 16.5 points
Our “from downtown” SGP: Philly Cheese Stakes
Philadelphia leaned into its defense to rally in Round 1 and does the same in Game 3 at home. The 76ers keep the Knicks out of the paint, which sees a dip in New York’s shooting success, and ups Tyrese Maxey’s rebounding chances. Paul George has been a consistent contributor in the postseason and is projected for 17+ points.
Knicks vs 76ers SGP
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Paul George Over 16.5 points
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Tyrese Maxey Over 3.5 rebounds
Knicks vs 76ers odds for Game 3 tonight
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Spread: Knicks +1 | 76ers -1
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Moneyline: Knicks -105 | 76ers -115
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Over/Under: Over 213.5 | Under 213.5
Knicks vs 76ers betting trend to know
The Under is 23-18 with the Philadelphia 76ers coming off a loss this season, including 3-1 in the playoffs so far. Find more NBA betting trends for Knicks vs. 76ers.
How to watch Knicks vs 76ers Game 3
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Location |
Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, PA |
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Date |
Friday, May 8, 2026 |
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Tip-off |
7:00 p.m. ET |
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TV |
Prime Video |
Knicks vs 76ers latest injuries
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