Philadelphia 76ers: 5 things they must improve before Game 3

5 things Sixers must improve for Game 3

PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 16: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during the national anthem prior to Game Two of Round One of the 2018 NBA Playoffs against the Miami Heat on April 16, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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PHILADELPHIA, PA – APRIL 16: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during the national anthem prior to Game Two of Round One of the 2018 NBA Playoffs against the Miami Heat on April 16, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) /

The Philadelphia 76ers went cold in their Game 2 loss. What can they fix heading into Miami?

Well, that wasn’t fun. The Philadelphia 76ers dropped their game two matchup with the Miami Heat, marking their first loss in over a month. A combination of gritty Heat defense, inconsistent officiating and stone-cold shooting kept the Sixers in a rut all game.

Even after making a brief run in the fourth quarter, the Sixers lost momentum after a flurry of Dwyane Wade-sparked plays. From drilling tough shots to forcing turnovers, Miami had the Sixers’ number all night. Now things head to South Beach with the series tied 1-1.

Joel Embiid‘s return date is still up in the air, but his recent Instagram Live post suggests that he’s ready — at least personally — to get back on the court. Last night, if anything, was a solid reminder that the Sixers need Embiid to reach their potential in the postseason.

Here are some things they’ll need to work on ahead of Thursday’s game in Miami.