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 Christ.
