Joel Embiid, James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
This is a very tough road trip for the Philadelphia 76ers.
Friday night, the Sixers were in a battle at Golden State and lost to Steph Curry’s squad, 120-112 despite a huge 46 points, nine rebound, eight assist game from Joel Embiid. Now, they’re in Phoenix without a day off against the Suns. However, it’s not like Phoenix has a rest advantage at all. The Suns were in Sacramento just last night and fell to the Kings, 135-127.
The Suns are 38-35 and waiting for Kevin Durant to come back, while the 76ers are 49-24 and waiting for Durant’s former teammate, James Harden to get back on the floor. Let’s get into the odds for this matchup and maybe, potential NBA Finals preview?
76ers vs. Suns odds, spread and total
76ers vs. Suns prediction and pick
Obviously the Suns desperately need KD back on the floor. The Suns are 5-6 in the month of March and because they sacrificed so much of their depth and defense especially on the wing to acquire Durant. That certainly shows up when they only get 12 combined points from your three starters that aren’t Devin Booker or Chris Paul. The Suns also did not have Deandre Ayton for that one, but he is listed as questionable.
Another guy who is questionable to play tonight is James Harden who missed the Sixers loss to Golden State yesterday. Harden is so crucial for Philly because he can keep them treading water while Embiid is on the bench. Yesterday, they didn’t have that luxury and it was a fatal flaw.
I expect Harden to be back on the floor and the Sixers are the best team in the NBA in March when he plays. They’re 10-3 overall this month and have an 11.4 net rating this month. I’ll take Philly to get a win in Phoenix after their loss in northern California.
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