5. Most of last year’s end of season games were home, not this time
In that 16-game winning streak of 2017-18, only six of the 16 games were away, and none of them particularly tough (Atlanta twice, Knicks, Charlotte, Orlando, Detroit) .
Note: All stats are as of March 29.
This year, the Sixers have just four games at the Center out of their last 13. The 76ers have been a much better home team (30-9) compared to being only a .500 squad (18-18) on the road.
And bad teams simply play better at home. No one wants to embarrass themselves in front of their own fans. As an example, the Sixers are at Dallas on April 1 and only the Phoenix Suns have a worse record in the Western Conference. On paper this should game should be a breeze for Philly, maybe a chance for Zhaire Smith to get in a run.
However, Deep in the Heart of Texas, the Mavs are a tough out. Dallas has a 22-15 record at home, so the Sixers will need to ignore the standings and be ready for a battle with Luka Doncic and company.
An away game against virtually any team will be a dangerous contest for the 76ers.