Sixers podcast: Game 5 (and Ben Simmons) sadness

The Sixers‘ blew a 26-point lead in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, marking the biggest collapse of the last two postseasons. Doc Rivers and Ben Simmons took center stage in the worst way, while Joel Embiid and Seth Curry were unable to elevate a slew of teammates who went M.I.A.

Naturally, we jumped on the podcast to air out our post-game thoughts. The Sixers are down 3-2 to the Atlanta Hawks, a good-not-great team who should not be leading this series. Christopher Kline and Lucas Johnson work through their feelings about the game and set the stage for a contentious series of debates.

The Sixers find themselves in a 3-2 hole that is entirely their fault. What comes next?

First is the Ben Simmons debate. Both Lucas and Christopher agree — Ben was terrible in Game 5, and bears the brunt of the responsibility for Wednesday’s loss. How that responsibility should impact Ben’s future, however, is where they disagree. Should Simmons hit the trade block this offseason? Do the Sixers need to wait for the right move?

The conversation also encompasses Doc Rivers, who Christopher and Lucas share different perspectives on. Some have questioned whether Doc can take the blame for roster shortcomings. Others believe he has cost Philadelphia this series. Safe to say, our co-hosts quickly take sides.

Beyond the general melancholy of a bad loss, the pair discusses recent All-NBA and All-Defense nominations, as well as other storylines around the association. The Bucks, no stranger of blown leads, are struck with a playful jab, while Lucas and Christopher both pine for the success of a certain Western Conference finalist.

Thanks to all our listeners for tuning in to this episode of The Sixer Sense Podcast. You can listen on Spotify, iTunes, Google Play, and Omny. Please leave a five-star review, and do not hesitate to give us your opinion on the episode and the show. We will be back with more content as this series unfolds.