Dec 27, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) drives to the basket against the Atlanta Hawks in the second quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Knicks vs. 76ers Bold Predictions: Mitchell Robinson Makes Immediate Impact

Originally posted on New York Knicks on SI
By Jayesh Pagar | Last updated Jan 3, 2026 5:00 PM ET

The New York Knicks are facing a crucial bounce-back opportunity at Madison Square Garden against the Philadelphia 76ers. Coming off last disappointing 111-99 loss to Atlanta, where they trailed by 26 points, the Knicks need to rediscover their defensive identity against a surging Sixers squad.

The injury situation remains fluid for both sides. Karl-Anthony Towns is questionable with an illness that sidelined him against the Hawks, while Mitchell Robinson has been cleared to return after missing extended time.

This Atlantic Division clash carries playoff seeding implications. The Knicks are 15-3 at home this season, while the 76ers have proven capable on the road at 9-6. With Paul George healthy and the Sixers riding a two-game winning streak to start 2026, New York cannot afford another lethargic performance.

Mitchell Robinson Makes Immediate Defensive Impact

New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Robinson's return couldn't be timed better against Embiid and the Sixers' interior presence. While his minutes will likely be restricted in his first game back, expect Mitch to provide elite rim protection immediately. The Knicks allowed too many easy baskets against Atlanta without a legitimate shot-blocker patrolling the paint.

Robinson's length and timing will disrupt Philadelphia's pick-and-roll game with Maxey and Embiid. Even on a minutes restriction around 20-24 minutes, he records at least 10 rebounds and 3 blocks while holding Embiid to under 45% shooting. His energy off the bench will ignite the Garden crowd and shift momentum in key stretches.

Jalen Brunson Explodes for 35-Plus Points

With KAT's availability uncertain, the offensive burden falls squarely on Brunson's shoulders for the second consecutive night. The captain has averaged 26.6 points this season alongside Towns, but in potential absence scenarios, he elevates his aggression. Against a 76ers defense ranked 12th in the league, Brunson will attack downhill relentlessly.

Maxey's defensive limitations give Brunson favorable matchups in isolation. Expect the Knicks point guard to exploit the midrange game and draw fouls attacking the rim. He finishes with 37 points and nine assists, putting the team on his back in crunch time like he's done all season at MSG.

Tyrese Maxey's Hot Streak Continues Despite Loss

Maxey has been unconscious recently, averaging 27.2 points over his last five games. That scoring barrage won't stop Saturday, even in a losing effort. With Kelly Oubre sidelined, Maxey shoulders even more offensive responsibility alongside Embiid and Paul George.

The Knicks' perimeter defense will struggle to contain his speed and shot-making, especially with tired legs on a back-to-back. Maxey is likely to drop 32 points on efficient shooting, but the Sixers' supporting cast fails to provide enough secondary scoring. New York's home-court advantage and desperation after Friday's embarrassment prove decisive.