Knicks struggle shooting in first preseason game, fall to 76ers

The New York Knicks suffered a 120-97 defeat against the Philadelphia 76ers in their first preseason game, as the starting lineup for both teams featured different players. The Sixers rested LeBron James, Tyrese Maxey, and Joel Embiid, leaving VJ Edgecombe and Jaylen Brown as their only regular starters, while the Knicks kept their winning lineup of Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns.

Philadelphia's VJ Edgecombe and Jaylen Brown took the places of the injured Ariel Hukporti in the starting lineup. Hukporti suffered an awkward fall during the first quarter and left the game to be treated. The Sixers' starters led after the first quarter, but New York managed to close the gap, trailing 58-51 at halftime.

The Knicks' bench played a significant role in the second half, with Mohamed Diawara and Jordan Clarkson making their first appearances and scoring points. However, the Sixers' shooting struggled, sinking to a 53% field goal percentage and 46% from three (11-for-24). The Knicks shot 38% from the field and 20% from three (8-for-41) in the game.

Despite their poor shooting, the Knicks' Jalen Brunson and Jaylen Brown led the team in points, with 13 and 22 points respectively. The Sixers' Landry Shamet and Drummond stood out, with Shamet hitting two three-pointers early and Drummond contributing defensively. The Knicks will face the Washington Wizards in their next preseason game on Thursday at Madison Square Garden.