The Sixers have done it; they’ve clinched the top seed in the East for the first time since the days of Allen Iverson, specifically, 2000-01.
With this win over the Orlando Magic, the Sixers will go into the playoffs as the top seed in the entire conference. This marks the first time the team has been able to do so since the 2000-01 season when Allen Iverson won MVP and took the team to the NBA Finals. This season, the Sixers have another MVP candidate in Joel Embiid and another good chance at making, maybe even winning, the NBA Finals.
The buzz may not be reminiscent of that time but, frankly, it should be. The 2000-01 playss featured some amazing competition for the Sixers and this season is no different. The Giannis-led Bucks, the Big 3 in Brooklyn, and the always troublesome Miami Heat, there’s a lot of competition that is sure to make the playoffs one to remember.
The team may even have an interesting first round as the eighth seed has a surprising amount of star potential. From Jayson Tatum, to Domantas Sabonis, To LaMelo Ball, Bradley Beal, and even maybe Zach LaVine, the first round should still be a fun series.
Joel Embiid and Co. will have the pleasure of sitting back, relaxing, and watching the battle royal that will be the play-in tournament. At this point in time, three of the four spots in the tournament have been decided.
The Boston Celtics, Indiana Pacers, and the Charlotte Hornets are currently confirmed for the tournament while the final spot will likely be the Washington Wizards.
Following the current standings, the Celtics and Hornets would play each other while the Pacers and Wizards would do the same. The loser of the first match would play the winner of the second and the victor in that game would decide the eighth seed, and more importantly, the Sixers first-round opponent.
It’s time to get excited Philadelphia!
