Toronto finds themselves in serious trouble, which we did not expect to be the case after how they came out in Game 1. Right now they are beaten up with injuries and have one player carrying the entire team on his back. If the “other” guys do not step up tonight, we could be chanting “PHILLY PHILLY!”
The last time the Sixers made it past this part of the postseason, they had to get past Toronto to do so. And once they did that, the Bucks were the next team waiting for them. Folks, this was 18 years ago, but for some fans, this has to feel like it has the potential to be a complete deja vu.
The Philadelphia 76ers are -2 point favorites for Game 4, with the over/under set at 214.5.
Raptors Need More Than Kawhi
This group is in serious trouble. And they need to think of the impact that losing in the second round would have on their offseason. Kawhi Leonard is far from a sure thing to return next season, while Marc Gasol and Danny Green will also be joining the free-agent market. They lost by 21 points last time out, and now they find themselves as underdogs today with Pascal Siakam likely to miss the game with a calf contusion.
Siakam is invaluable to this team and is able to make plays for them whenever Kawhi needs a play or two off. But with him out, it throws everything out of whack. He has been playing significant minutes in this series, and they don’t have many guys to slide in. Especially with OG Anunoby out already. They will need Kawhi to go for 50 and for Gasol to try and score.
Sixers Finding Their Groove
Well, this is a team in good shape. They struggled mightily in round two a year ago, but with a more-complete starting unit this time around, they are not having any issues. James Ennis III has also been playing very well for them off the bench and providing baskets when needed. Joel Embiid finally got his game rolling with his 33-10 in only 28 minutes of play in Game 3. Every single guy in their lineup is capable of being a playmaker, which gives them a significant edge on Toronto.
They have not relied too much on the three ball, making 10 of 23 last game, but look for it to be more of a factor tonight. It is something they may try a little bit more, and maybe even Embiid will be launching them. They were +14 in assists, dishing out 29 on their 43 made baskets, numbers that make it very hard to see them lose.
Sixers Take Commanding 3-1 Lead
Sorry Toronto, but no Siakam means no win is coming tonight. Embiid and company are going to make sure that everybody is involved as they get out to a 3-1 lead, putting Philly a single win away from the ECF!
Free Pick: PHI -2
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