Sixers Beat Knicks 98-93 in NBA Cup Behind LeBron James and Tyrese Maxey
LeBron James and Tyrese Maxey led the Philadelphia 76ers to a 98-93 victory over the New York Knicks on October 31, 2026, securing a hard-fought win in their opening NBA Cup matchup at home.
TrashTalk reported that the two Eastern Conference rivals traded blows throughout a tense contest before Philadelphia sealed its second victory against New York this season. The result lifts the Sixers to a 5-1 record, while the Knicks drop to 2-4.
How Philadelphia Held Off the Knicks in the Fourth Quarter
The Sixers controlled much of the first half behind an 18-point opening performance from Tyrese Maxey and steady scoring from LeBron James, who posted 12 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists. Philadelphia carried a 53-44 lead into halftime. New York pushed back in the third quarter, but a scoring burst by Anfernee Simons, who finished with 21 points, kept the home team ahead.
The visitors mounted a serious charge in the final period. With two minutes remaining and the defending champions trailing by just two points, Jalen Brunson hit a three-pointer over V.J. Edgecombe to put the Knicks ahead 91-90 with 1:32 left on the clock.
Philadelphia responded immediately. Joel Embiid set a screen in the pick-and-roll, allowing LeBron James to drive past OG Anunoby for a fadeaway jumper at the 1:10 mark. After a missed drive by Brunson, the Knicks defense collapsed on Maxey, with Mikal Bridges and his captain harassing the Philadelphia guard right from the halfway line. However, the defenders left a bit too much space on a screen, leaving Edgecombe open for a clutch three-pointer that restored a 94-90 advantage for the Sixers with 32 seconds remaining.
Brunson drew disputed free throws following a challenge, converting one to narrow the gap after referees determined the Bahamian sophomore’s foot caused the New York player to fall. Maxey missed a driving layup on the ensuing possession, but the 41-year-old James chased down the loose ball and put it back in with 12 seconds left to push the lead to 96-91.
What Lies Ahead for Both Franchises
An Anunoby dunk and two late free throws from the blue and red number 0 finalized the 98-93 scoreline. The Sixers managed the win under head coach Nick Nurse despite resting Jaylen Brown. New York continues its road through the early regular-season schedule seeking to find consistency.