Sixers to Face Nets in an Eastern Conference Duel

A 4-game homestand for the Philadelphia 76ers kicks off tonight, facing the Brooklyn Nets at the Wells Fargo Center. The Sixers and Nets have faced each other twice this season, both teams have won their home matchup. This will be the final duel between these two teams and the outcome could majorly affect the Eastern Conference standings.

After being on the road since April 6th, the Sixers should be delighted to be playing in front of their own home crowd. However, the Sixers did lose by 16 points to the Memphis Grizzlies last time at Wells Fargo Center, so both the players and the fans will be looking to get a bad taste out of their mouths.

Last time out against the Mavs, Embiid was excellent. Scoring 36 points in just 25 minutes. The Sixers will be looking for more of the same in this one, as he will be the best big man on the floor at all times throughout the contest.

Ben Simmons has also been cleaning up his act, doing a little bit of everything on the floor (except shooting -- of course). In the past, Simmons has played his best basketball against the Nets, including the very impressive playoff series back in 2019.

The injury list for the Brooklyn Nets is extensive. Kevin Durant, Blake Griffin, LaMarcus Aldridge, James Harden, Tyler Johnson, Chris Chiozza, and Spencer Dinwiddie are all ruled out for tonight's game.

The Sixers, like many other teams, have not faced a fully healthy Nets team all season. However, this will be the first time Kyrie Irving has played the Sixers this season, as he missed the first two contests.

In order to walk away with a win tonight, the Sixers have to run through their MVP, Joel Embiid. But, as much as Embiid can do on the court, he will not be able to single-handily win the matchup. Perimeter defense on Kyrie Irving and outside shooting will be a major key for the Sixers on their path to victory.

Game Time: 7 pm

Watch: ESPN

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Follow: @PHISportsToday on Twitter for live, in-game updates.