The Philadelphia 76ers are 1-4 through five games while the Phoenix Suns are 4-1 through their first five games of the season. The Sixers are currently struggling to make a statement this season. On the other hand, the Suns team is in form with four wins in a row. Thus, can the Philadelphia 76ers end their losing streak?
Philadelphia 76ers Lineup Projection
The Philadelphia 76ers are struggling to make it work offensively to begin the season. Interestingly, Paul George is set to make his debut for the 2024-25 season against the Phoenix Suns tonight. Joel Embiid won’t play as the NBA world awaits the consequences of his action on Sunday night.
The Sixers’ lineup should consist of Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, KJ Martin, Kelly Oubre Jr., and Andre Drummond. This starting lineup should add more size on the floor to counter the size of the Phoenix Suns. Also, it adds more offensive power to the team. Paul George made a positive statement about his preseason injury. However, he could be on a minutes restriction to see how well he’s recovered. On the other hand, the forward’s return should help the team pick up momentum from their season’s slow start. Also, his status after the pregame shootaround will determine his minutes on the court.
What To Expect From the Sixers
The Philadelphia 76ers vs. the Phoenix Suns game will be tough without Embiid. The Sixers offense this season is below average. Also, the team lacks size on the roster. It will be challenging to guard Kevin Durant due to Philly’s lack of size. The Phoenix Suns have more offensive firepower with Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal on the roster. Yet, the Philadelphia 76ers can make the game competitive. With George on the floor, Caleb Martin’s role could change. Martin could come off the bench for KJ Martin to offer more offensive support. Also, Oubre, George, and Caleb Martin would improve the Sixers’ perimeter defense.
Guerschon Yabusele will struggle as the backup center. Thus, Nick Nurse’s small-ball strategy might not work against the Suns this evening. Also, Adem Bona is yet to earn Nurse’s trust as he plays a few minutes on the court. This setback could lead to the Suns out-rebounding the Sixers.
Jared McCain has been impressive since the beginning of the season. In his last game against the Memphis Grizzlies, he came off the bench for 17 minutes. Within that period, he scored 19 points shooting 8-for-16 from the field and 2-of-6 from deep. McCain keeps enhancing Nurse’s confidence in him as he plays the rookie guard for more minutes. With George on the floor, the guard’s performance should improve.
Final Thoughts
The Philadelphia 76ers have less offense and defense than the Phoenix Suns. Also, the Sixers struggle with playmaking on the floor. Booker is a player to watch out for as he is the team leader. Also, his playmaking skills will help the Suns strive offensively against the away team. Tyrese Maxey’s offensive burden should be reduced. Thus, it’s worth watching what he can bring to the floor with Paul George on the floor.
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