76ers’ Tyrese Maxey Shows Leadership After Game 2 Loss

The Philadelphia 76ers suffered a tough break in Game 2 of their first-round series against the New York Knicks in the 2024 NBA Playoffs. They blew a five-point lead with 47.3 seconds remaining in the game, as they led 101-96 but ended up losing 104-101.

Kyle Lowry missed a free throw and then craziness ensued. A loose ball was picked up by Donte DiVincenzo and in the scramble, Jalen Brunson knocked down his first 3-pointer of the evening.

On the inbounds, a turnover was committed as the Knicks mauled Tyrese Maxey. According to the two-minute report the NBA shares, he was fouled twice on the play and now the whistle was blown. Head coach Nick Nurse should have also been awarded a timeout according to the report.

Instead, Hart got the steal and kicked the ball out to DiVincenzo, who missed the 3-pointer. Isaiah Hartenstein got the offensive rebound and was able to throw a pass to OG Anunoby as he fell to the floor. Anunoby swung the ball to the top of the key to DiVincenzo, who drilled the go-ahead 3-pointer.

It was bedlam in MSG as the fans erupted. Hartenstein made another incredible play on the ensuing defensive possession, blocking Maxey’s shot at the rim, allowing Anunoby to secure the rebound and knock down two free throws to ice the game.

Reactions after the game were heated, as 76ers’ fans felt they were cheated out of a victory. Emotions ran high, as Joel Embiid was visibly distraught at his locker after the game, vowing that his team would come back to win the series.

Maxey could have had the same reaction, but he showcased incredible leadership and poise after the game. He didn’t put any blame on the referees, who deserved a lot, taking accountability for not holding onto the ball.

“Just got to rebound. I can’t turn the ball over, can’t lose the ball and we’ve got to get the rebound,” Maxey said via Knicks Videos on X.