The New York Knicks have established a dominant 3-0 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Philadelphia 76ers, putting them one win away from reaching back-to-back conference finals for the first time since 1999-2000. This impressive run has come despite the absence of key forward OG Anunoby, who was again ruled out for Game 4 with a strained right hamstring. Anunoby sustained the injury late in Game 2, where he had scored 24 points. He had also been having a strong game in Wednesday's contest before exiting with the leg injury.

Anunoby, averaging 21.4 points per game in the postseason with exceptional shooting percentages (61.9% from the field, 53.8% from 3-point range), is considered the Knicks' top defender. His current hamstring injury mirrors a previous one two years ago in the second round, where he missed significant time as New York held a 2-0 lead against Indiana, ultimately leading to the Pacers winning the series. Despite his day-to-day status, his absence has challenged the Knicks to adapt.

The Knicks' defense, which at times this season looked disjointed, has emerged as a formidable force, effectively shutting down the 76ers, particularly in crucial fourth quarters. In Game 3, New York limited Philadelphia to just 18 points in the final quarter, following a 12-point fourth quarter in Game 2. This defensive resilience has squelched earlier season concerns about their playoff potential.

In Anunoby's absence, Mikal Bridges stepped up as a defensive disruptor in Game 3. Bridges, who grew up near Philadelphia, successfully limited Tyrese Maxey, the 76ers' leading scorer, to only eight shot attempts through the first three quarters. Knicks coach Mike Brown praised Bridges' sustained effort at the point of attack against Maxey. Beyond defense, Bridges has rebounded from a slow offensive start to the playoffs, now averaging 20.5 points in his last four games, proving instrumental in the team's success.

Other players have also risen to the occasion. Veteran guard Landry Shamet provided critical minutes and scored 15 points, playing nearly the entire fourth quarter. This highlights Coach Brown's confidence in his diverse roster. Jalen Brunson continued his strong offensive series with 33 points in Game 3, marking his second 30-point performance in three games. Nine of those points came in the fourth quarter, solidifying the Knicks' lead after the 76ers cut it to 88-84. Brunson emphasized the team's reliance on defense and their collective will to win, navigating both connected and disconnected moments.

Conversely, the 76ers have struggled to find answers. Paul George went 0-for-9 after a strong first quarter, while Joel Embiid, despite scoring 18 points, was largely ineffective, especially when matched against Mitchell Robinson. The Knicks held the 76ers to 43% shooting from the field and 28% from 3-point range. The consistency the Knicks have been seeking all season has seemingly arrived at the opportune moment, positioning them to be the first team to clinch a conference finals berth, which could also provide Anunoby with more time to recover from his injury.