If the main thing for the Sixers, at the end of the regular season, is obviously to find a fully healthy Joel Embiid, this success snatched from Miami has particular importance. Already because it allows you to reassure yourself sportingly, after a complicated period without the 2023 MVP.
“The environment was not easy and they are a very athletic and physical team, who put us on the ropes, who kept hitting us. We managed to get out of it,” welcomes Nick Nurse. “We had the impression that this match could have gotten away from us at certain moments. We held on and did it with intensity and pressure. »
Then, this victory means a rapprochement in the ranking of the two teams. Philadelphia is in 8th place, behind Miami in 7th, and there is only 0.5 game difference. Clearly, the Sixers could quickly overtake the Heat, or even Indiana, 6th, which is only one victory ahead of them.
Take advantage of an Indiana – Miami to overtake them
The prospect of joining the Top 6, and therefore obtaining direct qualification for the playoffs, is more than possible for Joel Embiid and his gang.
“We don’t care where we end up,” Yet the pivot responds. “Personally, I didn't have to come back but I want to play. I love basketball and I want to be on the floor. Obviously, I would prefer to avoid the play-in, but we're there for now and if it confirms, it doesn't change anything. The objective is to win every match, so the ranking doesn't matter. I think we have our chances. »
What finally allows us to really believe in it is the timetable for the end of the season. The Sixers will face weak teams already on vacation: Memphis, San Antonio, Detroit and Brooklyn.
There is only one game in Orlando against a team well placed for the postseason. At the same time, this Sunday, Miami and Indiana meet again. Clearly, there is something to be done.
“We try to win matches while certain players are absent. We need to be in good health and then we will find solutions,” announces Kyle Lowry. “For now, we are trying to improve every day and win matches. »
