The Sixers are back home tonight against the division rival Toronto Raptors. Coming off a lifeless performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Sixers have plenty to atone for in this game.
Though the team was without Joel Embiid, the way the team lost was inexcusable. So far Embiid is listed as probable for the game against Toronto. Whether or not he plays, the rest of the team needs to step up.
The team will have to put forth a better effort to beat a balanced Raptors team that is hungry for their first win.
Injury Report
Raptors
Patrick McCaw – Out (knee)
Sixers
Joel Embiid – Probable (back)
Furkan Korkmaz – Out (Left Adductor)
Hopefully, Joel Embiid will be back and the team finds their spirit once again. They will have to do so without Furkan Korkmaz though who suffered a left adductor strain against Cleveland.
This will be Korkmaz’s first game missed as he awaits to be re-evaluated in about two weeks.
Keys To The Game
Other than a healthy Embiid returning to the team, the Sixers must focus on protecting the ball. Finishing their game against the Cavs with 21 turnovers, Doc Rivers must place an emphasis on ball security.
Nick Nurse has instilled too tenacious a defense to be careless with the ball. Ben Simmons in particular needs to step up as he was plagued by lazy passing during the entire game against Cleveland.
In addition to protecting the ball, the Sixers must go to the paint early and often.
This is not the same Raptors team that boasted the likes of Marc Gasol and Serge Ibaka. They are vulnerable. This team can be dominated if the team is willing to commit to the inside game.
That starts with Joel Embiid yes but the responsibility is also Ben Simmons. Simmons was disinterested offensively against the Cavs, a frustratingly consistent trait.
Simmons must be the aggressor and impose his will against the Toronto defense. If he is going to prove himself a legitimate superstar, he must unleash his competitive nature.
Sixers Game Time
The Sixers will take the court with a 7:00 PM EST Tip-Off. You can catch the game either on NBC Sports Philadelphia or NBA League Pass. You can also listen live as always at 97.5 The Fanatic FM.
It’s early but Sixers’ fans will learn a lot about their team’s character during this game.
