The Philadelphia 76ers host the Toronto Raptors at Wells Fargo Center on Tuesday night. Philadelphia has lost three straight and 12 of its last 17 games. Toronto is also struggling, entering the game on a four-game losing streak.
These teams last met on October 25, when Toronto won 115-107 at home. Scottie Barnes led the Raptors with 27 points, while Tyrese Maxey had 24 for Philadelphia. The 76ers are dealing with injuries, including Joel Embiid, who has missed 36 games this season.
76ers Preview – Struggles Continue Without Embiid
Philadelphia has struggled without Joel Embiid, who has missed most of the season. Tyrese Maxey has stepped up, scoring 39 points in their last game, a 135-127 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. The 76ers’ defense has also been an issue, allowing 43.6% shooting from three-point range to the Bucks.
The team is ranked 15th in points allowed at 113.3 per game. They have also struggled with rebounding, ranking 30th in defensive rebounds per game. Head coach Nick Nurse has pointed out second-chance points as a major issue.
Philadelphia has been inconsistent at home, going 10-16 at Wells Fargo Center. The offense relies on Maxey and Embiid when he plays, but they need more from role players like Kelly Oubre Jr. and Paul George. Injuries to key players have made things worse.
Raptors Preview – Road Woes Continue
Toronto is 4-21 on the road this season, one of the worst marks in the NBA. They have struggled offensively, ranking 21st in points per game. Scottie Barnes is the team’s leading scorer, but he had just 15 points in their last game against Houston.
Immanuel Quickley has returned from injury and scored 20 points in the loss to the Rockets. Toronto’s defense has been inconsistent, ranking 30th in opponent field goal percentage at 48.7%. They have also struggled with three-point defense, allowing 37.1% shooting from deep.
Injuries have been a factor, with RJ Barrett still in the concussion protocol and Jakob Poeltl out with a hip injury. The team has relied on young players like Gradey Dick and Jordan Mogbo to fill in. They need a strong defensive effort to stay competitive in this game.
Betting Prediction
Philadelphia is an 8.5-point favorite at home. The total is set at 226.5. Toronto won the last meeting, but that was at home, and they have struggled on the road. Philadelphia’s injuries make them hard to trust, but they still have more firepower.
The 76ers have hit the over in 41 of their last 69 games. Toronto’s offense has been inconsistent, but their defense struggles to stop anyone. Expect Philadelphia to win but not cover. The over is a strong play.
Pick: Over 226.5
Expect points to be early and often in this game. This should be a fun game to watch. Betting the over is not only the most fun way to watch a game, but also the right move in this one. Take the OVER in this affair.
