The Boston Celtics are on top of the NBA universe, but challengers are always looking to dethrone the champions. In the Eastern Conference, many look to the rival Philadelphia 76ers and New York Knicks as teams on the rise that have the greatest chance of hurdling past the Celtics into the promised land.
Of the two, which one should carry the mantle as the most likely to end Boston’s reign? According to ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith, it’s the 76ers who pose the greatest threat.
Speaking on The OGs Show, Smith expressed his belief that the 76ers are a better NBA team than the Knicks. He highlighted Joel Embiid’s performance, noting that despite fighting through injuries, Embiid averaged 35 points per game against the Knicks on one leg. Smith also praised Philadelphia’s Tyrese Maxey, calling him a “special” player who will cause New York matchup nightmares.
Maxey recently received a $204 million extension, and while this was the maximum he could receive, Smith still believes that the star deserved more. Smith also mentioned the potential impact of Paul George, stating that if George lives up to his billing, the combination of George, Embiid, and Maxey would form a formidable lineup.
Smith, a lifelong Knicks fan, had to concede that New York is not a better team than Boston or Philly. While acknowledging that Boston is on “another level” as the newly crowned NBA champions, he admitted that the 76ers are onto something special with George, Embiid, and Maxey leading the club. Despite his loyalty to the Knicks, Smith recognized that the 76ers are currently a step ahead of his beloved team.
