India, Oct. 21 -- The much-anticipated season opener between the Philadelphia 76ers and defending champions New York Knicks is underway, with New York holding a narrow lead at halftime.

While LeBron James beginning a new chapter with the 76ers was one of the biggest talking points heading into the matchup, Karl-Anthony Towns quickly became another major storyline because of his foul trouble in the opening half.

The Knicks forward picked up two fouls within the first few minutes of the opening quarter, prompting head coach Mike Brown to send him to the bench. Towns was whistled for a third foul with around three minutes remaining in the second quarter, further limiting his time on the court.

Therefore, Towns played just six minutes in t...