After a long four games, the Philadelphia 76ers return to Miami for what is now a best of three series against Jimmy Butler and the Heat. The Sixers evened up the series on Sunday night as James Harden and Joel Embiid led the team to victory despite Jimmy Butler’s 40-point outburst.
- When: Tuesday, May 10th at 7:30 PM
- Where: FTX Arena, Miami, FL
- How: TNT, 97.5 FM The Fanatic
Injury Report:
76ers
- Joel Embiid — Questionable (Orbital/Thumb)
- Isaiah Joe — Questionable (ankle)
Don’t be fooled by Joel Embiid’s appearance on this injury report. Nothing could stop the 76ers’ superstar from playing in this pivotal game. Philadelphia looks to gain the advantage for the first time in the series. A win tonight would mean that the Sixers could wrap up the series in six on their home court.
There’s no doubt that Joel Embiid plays tonight.
Heat
- Kyle Lowry — Out (hamstring)
- Tyler Herro — Questionable (ankle)
- Caleb Martin — Questionable (ankle)
- Max Strus — Questionable (hamstring)
- PJ Tucker — Questionable (knee)
- Gabe Vincent — Questionable (knee)
- Dewayne Dedmon — Questionable (non-COVID illness)
For this entire series, the Miami Heat have had a laundry list of players on the injury report. While it may look like they’re limping to the finish of this series, it’s more likely just a case of gamesmanship. Kyle Lowry is confirmed to be out for Game 5, but that’s not exactly much of a loss as his hamstring injury — which he was playing through — made him look like anything but the Lowry the Heat were expecting.
Another notable name listed is Dewayne Dedmon, whose presence was sorely missed in Sunday’s game for Miami. Dedmon is the Heat’s best chance at matchup up with the Heat, so his availability will likely impact the outcome of this game.
76ers/Heat Odds:
The Philadelphia 76ers are currently two and a half point underdogs as they visit the Heat. With Joel Embiid making his Miami debut in this series, the tide may now be turning in Philadelphia’s favor making it an appealing line.
Prediction:
The Philadelphia 76ers are motivated. They are motivated by Joel Embiid and have matched his effort and energy during the entire playoffs. With the recent news of Nikola Jokic being named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player over Embiid, expect “The Process” to be playing with an incredible chip on his shoulder.
This may be the most inspired Joel Embiid has been to put on a star performance, and he will do everything in his power to lead the Sixers to victor and prove his value.
Final Score Prediction: Philadelphia 76ers – 113 | Miami Heat – 109
