Philly 76ers Fan Urges Buying Refundable Amtrak Tickets to Jack Up Prices for Knicks Supporters

A 31-year-old Philadelphia 76ers fan took to Reddit with a plan to exploit Amtrak's surge pricing and hinder New York Knicks fans from traveling to Game 4 on Sunday.

Philadelphia fans have a reputation for tough tactics, but this one targets basic economics. Matt, who did not provide his last name, noted how simple it is for Knicks supporters to reach Philly. The trip from New York is a quick Amtrak ride to the City of Brotherly Love, especially convenient for the 3:30 p.m. start time.

His idea: Sixers fans should book fully refundable Amtrak Flex tickets for times that Knicks travelers would likely choose, then cancel them close to departure. "Just pick a time you’d think you’d pick if you were a Knicks fan looking to make the 3:30 start time and get back home after," Matt wrote. "Click that ‘Flex’ option. Book the tickets. Hit that cancel button an hour or so before departure (set multiple alarms for this). Can’t hurt if we all do this."

The post drew notice from The Philadelphia Inquirer. It also follows a plea from 76ers star Joel Embiid, who asked fans not to sell their tickets and help preserve home-court advantage in the second-round playoff series.

The series is expected to last at least six games. Results from this weekend's games will show if the ticket scheme pays off.