BOX SCORE
The Sixers did not look sharp against New York. They looked slow and unprepared for a much improved Knicks defense.
The Knicks beat the Sixers, 82-79, Wednesday at Wells Fargo Center to take the season series 2-1.
The Sixers' lead in the Atlantic Division is down to one game over the Celtics and three games over the Knicks.
On three consecutive possessions late in the fourth quarter, Jodie Meeks had his jumper contested by Jeremy Lin. Andre Iguodala missed a fast break lay-up and Lou Williams got to the paint, but could not convert a floater in traffic.
Those unaware that defense is about playing hard and having heart could look at New York as an example.
The Knicks went from being one of the worst defensive teams under Mike DAntoni to a stifling group under the direction of Mike Woodson.
NBA
Couple that with their work on the offensive glass in the second half and you understand the final score.
Andre Iguodalas three-pointer at the 4:44 mark of the third quarter gave the Sixers their first lead of the game at 49-48. It was the first time the Wells Fargo Center sounded like it was the Sixers' home court. New York fans were in abundance, but Iguodala ignited what had been a silent Sixers fan base.
The Sixers trailed 43-35 at the break. New York held the Sixers to 36 percent shooting in the first half and forced them into 10 turnovers.
The Knicks had more energy and swagger, while the Sixers look like they have regressed into laboring to score in a half-court set.
The Sixers had a dismal start to Wednesdays crucial meeting. The home team missed its first 14 shots and committed three turnovers before scoring its first field goal with 4:12 remaining in the first quarter. It came on an Elton Brand baseline jumper.
Earlier, Thaddeus Young put the Sixers' first points on the board when he made two free throws at the 6:19 mark.
Turning Point
Lin made a hesitation dribble move midway through the fourth quarter, clearing his path for a lay-up and leaving Jrue Holiday looking nailed to the hardwood.
That basket gave New York a six-point lead. The Knicks would not trail again.
Lin was just 4 for 17 for 18 points and he had only three assists. But he was instrumental in the Knicks win thanks to his made free throws down the stretch. He was 10 for 10 at the foul line.
Follow the Leader
Amar'e Stoudemire led New York with 21 points and 9 rebounds. Carmelo Anthony was limited to just 10 points.
The Sixers had five players score in double figures led by Holidays 16 points.
Brand had his 10th double-double of the season, with 12 points and 12 rebounds.
Stat-egic
The Sixers were 3 for 17 from the field in the first quarter, which was the fewest made field goals for them in any quarter this season. They also tied their season-high for turnovers in any quarter with six.
The Sixers were fortunate to only trail the Knicks 19-11 after the opening period, in part because their defense held New York to 8 for 19 shooting.
Take a Bow
Amar'e Stoudemire blocked Brands two-handed dunk attempt from behind with 4:12 to play. A basket there would have closed the Sixers' deficit to four points, not to mention stir the crowd for the closing stretch in favor of the home team.
Whats Next
The Sixers host the Celtics on Friday. Boston trails the Sixers by one game in the Atlantic division. Boston will play at Milwaukee Thursday before coming to Philadelphia. The last time the two teams met, the Sixers manhandled the Celtics and won by 32 points.
E-mail Dei Lynam at dlynam@comcastsportsnet.com.