The "total" is inching up very slightly in this series that continues to display "over" characteristics. Especially in Thursday's Game 3, when both Joel Embiid (50 points) and Jalen Brunson (39 points) were scoring at a torrid pace. The Knicks and Sixers also combined to shoot better than 50% from the floor, with Philly in particular suggesting that it is starting to solve Tom Thibodeau's defensive riddle. Plenty of "over" evidence in the team trends, too, with New York now "over" 13-2 across its last fifteen games, and Philly "over" 10-4 across its last fourteen games, and only some odd developments at the end of Game 2 keeping this series from being "over" three straight. Play Knicks-Sixers "Over"

Philly should likely be ahead 2-1 in this series, still kicking itself for throwing away Game 2 in the last 30 seconds last Monday night at MSG. But the answer back home on Thursday at Wells Fargo Center was emphatic, pulling clear of the Knicks in the second half, with Joel Embiid near unstoppable as he scored 50 points. The Sixers also survived a 39-point Jalen Brunson onslaught, and solved Tom Thibodeau's defense enough to his almost 55% from the floor. We'd be surprised if this series doesn't return to New York level, with both teams at two wins apiece. Play Sixers

Unless Bell's palsy affects the ability to run, shoot or jump -- I thought it was a green pepper species -- then it should not matter Joel Embiid apparently had/has it. Clearly didn't in Game 3. And he basically just Namath-ed the series, so his legacy is on the line at least in Game 4 now. The only guarantee I have made in my life? That I meet Katarina Witt. Still waiting yet somehow I have met Tonya Harding in person. What else should I expect at a monster truck rally? (Not usually my thing but long story. Yes, I did ask her to hit my leg and she did. No interest in meeting Nancy Kerrigan.) Philly should be up 2-1.