LeBron, Brown win 76ers debuts vs. Knicks, scoring stats, highlights for Brunson, Embiid and more

The new-look Philadelphia 76ers got off to a hot start Tuesday, beating the defending champion New York Knicks 106-100 in a season-opening thriller between two teams that look like top contenders in the Eastern Conference.

Here’s a look at the main players in the game:

While both teams played fantastic, balanced basketball, there were some absurd shots and highlights in this game.

The Sixers will take a lot of positives from this game.

The team defended well, forcing Jalen Brunson to have a tough shooting night (6 of 19 from the field, minus-14 in plus-minus). They moved the ball selflessly (28 assists). They were blurry in transition, turning steals or rebounds into easy points. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (10 points) and Anfernee Simons (13 points) have both made nice contributions coming off the bench, and Dean Wade should do so as well when healthy.

Overall, the chemistry seemed good. However, a game is just a game.

Likewise, the Knicks aren’t going to sweat any of the 82, especially against a talented Philly team. But the Knicks and their fans surely would have liked a more celebratory outcome the night they raised last season’s championship banner at Madison Square Garden.

The Sixers, on the contrary, decided to spoil this party. They will look to build on Thursday’s strong start when they host the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Knicks will look to bounce back on the road Friday against the Boston Celtics.