NBA
The Sixers Look To Bounce Back Against The Pistons
The Philadelphia 76ers suffered a disappointing loss Wednesday evening on the road at the hands of the Toronto Raptors. After maintaining the lead for three quarters, they fell apart against the leaders of the Eastern Conference. This was due in large part to four of the Sixers starters combining to commit 16 of the team’s 21 total turnovers.
As a result, it nullified the strong performances of both Jimmy Butler (38 points, 10 rebounds) and JJ Redick (25 points, 4 assists). Toronto’s massive fourth quarter surge was powered by starter Kawhi Leonard (36 points, 9 rebounds) and also by center Jonas Valanciunas ( 26 points, 8 rebounds). Although the Sixers attempted to fight hard to reclaim the lead, they fell short to a score of 113-102.
Joel Embiid Gets The Night Off
Sixers center and MVP candidate Joel Embiid will have tonight off versus the Detroit Pistons. This comes after recording a season low double double of 10 points and 12 rebounds. After three injury plagued seasons in the NBA, Embiid has had a healthy track record this season.
He’s also played every game of the 2018 season so far. Embiid has averaged over thirty minutes per contest. Brett Brown has made it clear that he’s resting the big man with the purpose of utilizing his most valuable weapon in a time of need. Rest easy Andre Drummond, you will not have to worry about being trolled tonight.
How The Sixers Can Go Up 2-1 Against The Pistons
No doubt, Embiid being out will hurt. However, the Sixers have two options to replace Joel Embiid at the center position. Those being Amir Johnson, who was not active versus the Raptors on Wednesday. The other option can be Mike Muscala. Muscala has also played valuable minutes for the Sixers in a reserve role and he might get the nod to start this evening.
Obviously, the X factor in tonight’s contest will certainly be Butler. He wasn’t present in either of their two previous encounters, and he’ll also be looking to make his presence felt. Will the Sixers be able to regroup and capitalize or will Drummond have the last laugh? Tune in to find out!
Written by Todd Smith
Photo Credit
Highlight Store via Flickr
