The Philadelphia 76ers depart for a weeklong Abu Dhabi bonding trip ahead of two preseason games against the New York Knicks, a move aimed at accelerating chemistry after last season’s struggles. With no home comforts and no escapes, the team will spend the week solely with each other, sharpening on-court timing and locker-room cohesion in a high-focus setting.

Tyrese Maxey and Kelly Oubre Jr. frame the journey as a rare camaraderie opportunity, while Joel Embiid’s prior experience in the region hints at leadership from veterans as the squad searches for a jelling edge. The Knicks take on the Sixers in back-to-back tuneups on Thursday and Saturday, shaping early expectations for rotations and confidence heading into the regular season.