The Philadelphia 76ers walked into Madison Square Garden surrounded by banners, applause, and a fresh NBA Cup celebration for the New York Knicks, but Tyrese Maxey never flinched. In a high-energy matchup, Maxey returned to the 76ers lineup and immediately seized control. His engine never stalled. He poured in 30 points, dished nine assists, and knocked down six threes as the 76ers spoiled the night at MSG. After missing recent games against the Indiana Pacers and Atlanta Hawks, Maxey showed no rust. Only pace and command.

The 76ers had just watched the Knicks honor their NBA Cup run inside Madison Square Garden. Early on, the building buzzed and expectations were high. Then Maxey flipped the mood. First, he attacked space. Next, he punished switches. With every pull-up three, the celebration chipped away. Defensive adjustments followed quickly, but they didn’t last. By halftime, the energy had shifted. By the fourth quarter, the control felt permanent.

A statement return with bigger meaning for the 76ers

Article Continues Below

Tyrese Maxey’s night reflected a season-long surge. Through 23 games, he’s averaging 31.5 points on 46.7 percent shooting, while hitting 39.1 percent from deep and 88.1 percent at the line. Along the way, he’s added 7.2 assists, 4.7 rebounds, and steady defensive activity. On this night, the six threes kept him top five in made triples this season. As a result, the scoring continues to place him among the league’s elite guards.

More importantly, Philadelphia needed the response. The win helped the 76ers bounce back from a tight loss against the Hawks and lifted them to 15–11, good for fifth in the East after winning six of their last ten. Meanwhile, the Knicks remain second at 19–8, but this matchup won’t fade. In fact, these teams will meet three more times this season.

This wasn’t just a hot return. It was a reminder. When Tyrese Maxey is healthy and fearless, the 76ers raise their ceiling. With more battles ahead, who blinks next?