Embiid returns, but the Knicks dominate and the Sixers are on the verge of being knocked out

The New York Knicks are getting closer to returning to a Conference Finals. The New York team once again imposed its defense in the decisive stretch of the game to defeat the Philadelphia 76ers by 108-94 and take a commanding 3-0 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinal. Joel Embiid returned, but it wasn't enough. 

After the defensive doubts they faced during various moments of the regular season, the Knicks have found their best form in the playoffs. New York held Philadelphia to just 18 points in the last quarter, after allowing only 12 in the fourth period of the second game of the series.

The main offensive force once again was Jalen Brunson, who finished with 33 points and recorded his second game of over 30 points in the first three games of the series. Nine of those points came in the last quarter, just when the Sixers had dangerously narrowed the gap.

"The most important thing is to trust our defense," explained Brunson after the game. "There will be moments when shots fall and others when they don't, but we have to control what we can control."

New York's defense once again stole the show. With OG Anunoby out due to discomfort in his right hamstring, Mikal Bridges took on the challenge of stopping Tyrese Maxey and did an outstanding job. Maxey only attempted eight shots in the first three quarters and finished with 17 points and seven assists.

Great Knicks Defense

Knicks coach Mike Brown particularly praised Bridges' defensive effort, who was heavily criticized during some parts of the season but is now experiencing his peak offensive performance of these playoffs.

Bridges also had a special night playing near his hometown. The forward admitted to distributing tickets among friends and family while listening to a large part of the arena chanting "Let's go Knicks" during the final stretch of the game.

Without Anunoby and with Karl-Anthony Towns affected by foul trouble for much of the game, New York found alternative solutions. Veteran Landry Shamet responded with 15 points and played practically the entire last quarter.

Meanwhile, Philadelphia continues to search for answers. Joel Embiid returned after missing the second game due to ankle and hip issues but never managed to dominate the game. The center finished with 18 points, although he appeared uncomfortable especially against Mitchell Robinson's defense.

Paul George also went missing, fading away completely after a good first quarter and missing his subsequent nine shot attempts. Overall, the Sixers shot just 42% from the field and a mere 28% from beyond the three-point line.

Now, the Knicks have the opportunity to close out the series this Sunday and reach a Conference Finals for the second consecutive season, something the franchise hasn't achieved since 1999 and 2000. Moreover, a potential quick elimination of Philadelphia would allow Anunoby more time to recover without rushing his return.