The Sixers took care of Toronto last night and took a 2-1 advantage in their playoff series. Game 4 is Sunday in South Philly. A Sixer win puts them in firm control of the series while a loss gives the Raptors home court advantage again, with 2 out of the final 3 games in Canada.
The post-game interviews were shocking, as the Raptor players sound defeated already. Philadelphia can't take Game 4 for granted and give Toronto life.
Joel Embiied stepped up and scored 33 points. His altercation with Jared Dudley from New Jersey in Game 2 of the previous series may have saved the Sixer's season.
To his credit, Coach Brett brown made the needed adjustments, especially on defense, to keep Kawhi Leonard in check.
Can't look too far ahead, but it would be great to play Boston for the Eastern Conference championship and the right to reach the NBA Finals. It would be payback time against the Celtics and revenge would be on the Sixers' side. The long-standing rivalry would heat up again, especially the Philly-Boston war. Fun for the fans and teams.
The 76er defense has improved a great deal this Toronto series. The defense had to get better to go deeper into the playoffs. Jimmy Butler continues to shine and is setting himself up for a rich new contract. I would sign Butler over Tobias Harris. Butler not only brings scoring to the guard spot but also leadership.
Interesting that the Sixers are underdogs at home on Sunday. Why? Toronto will be an angry, motivated and desperate team. Would you still bet on the Sixers?
I like the Sixers on Sunday, knowing they need to win and not go back to Toronto with the series tied.
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