The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Portland Trail Blazers in dominating fashion Monday night 125-103. After a putrid 2-12 start to the year, Philadelphia is finally starting to find their groove.
The Sixers are 8-2 in their last ten games and have been healthier than ever. Their big three of Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Paul George are 5-0 in games they started and finished together. If Philly has a complete unit, they can be a scary force.
Climbing In The Standings
Philadelphia was dead last in the Eastern Conference at one point, now they are in 11th place and one spot out of the play-in tournament. The conference is top four heavy right now. Currently, the Cavs, Knicks, Celtics and Magic all have over 20 wins. From the 5th seed down to the 11th seed, only a few games decide between them.
The schedule has been quite fair to the Sixers, but don’t let that be a distraction. Defeating Boston is a major sign of Philadelphia finally hitting a stride. Joel Embiid has averaged 32 points over his last three games, which means he’s back in full effect. Over the last seven games, Tyrese Maxey has averaged 30 points. This duo is one of the best in the league when they play.
If the 76ers can sneak into the postseason as a an 8th seed, the top seeded team (which most likely will be Cleveland) should be slightly worried. Philly has shown that they can hang with the best of teams when they’re healthy. Coming off of an outstanding win against the reigning champion Celtics on Christmas Day, the Sixers have been scorching.
The Other Guys
It’s not just about the big three of Embiid, Maxey and George. The NBA return of Guerschon Yabusele has been major for Philly. Yabusele showed out in the 2024 Olympic Games and earned an NBA contract soon after. He’s been the scrappy stat sheet stuffer the Sixers needed this year.
The offseason signing of Caleb Martin has helped the team as well. His deep playoff experience will help the squad when it matters most. He is averaging 38% from three point land which will certainly be a boost if Philly can make the playoffs.
Unfortunately, star rookie Jared McCain will be sidelined for the rest of the 2024-25 season with a torn meniscus. They will miss his production, as he was averaging 15.3 points per game on 46% from the field.
Kelly Oubre Jr. has been a defensive prowess this season. Last night, he recorded a smothering eight steals versus Portland. The 10th year veteran from Kansas is giving the 76ers a consistent 13 points per game along with elite defense.
Pretender or Contender?
In recent years, Philadelphia has had some contending teams, but ultimately could not get the job done. Injuries have consistently battered them and they still are lingering. It’s way too early to say if this team can be a contender, as there is a lot of season left. If they can continue this play and stay healthy though, the Eastern Conference should watch out.
