Sixers series predictions for first round matchup vs. Raptors

Sixers-Raptors first round series prediction: Aaron Palsgrove

Let me start with this, I hate this matchup for the Sixers. Can we beat them? Absolutely. But the Raptors are going to do their damnedest to make sure they take a bite out of the Sixers on the way down. This Raptors team is scrappy, young, long, and they know who they are, which is the perfect Anti-Sixers roster. Not to mention the demons of playoffs past that Joel and Co. will have to face in Toronto will be so much fun **cough, Kawhi, cough**. Personally, I have a few questions when I look at each playoff series, let’s see how the Sixers match up according to those questions.

1. Who has the best player on the court?

That’s easy, that’s Joel. Joel is one of the four best players in the NBA, and he’s going to be the best player in almost any series the Sixers have. Asking why having the best player matters is a fairly simple question, but it really matters.

2. Who are the teams closing five?

Now that is not so easy a question. Especially with Matisse only being able to play while in Philly for this series. So the Sixers would have to flex that closing lineup around, while the Raptors know who theirs is.

3. Who can make the other team play at their pace?

This is the question the Sixers need to answer to win. The Raptors are fast. They only rank 1 place higher than the Sixers in pace, but they are third in the NBA in fast-break points per game. That’s a terrible matchup considering the Sixers are third in the NBA in allowed fast-break points per game. So can the Sixers slow down this team? And can Joel take over when it really matters? Those are the questions this team needs to answer, and I think and hope they will.

Official pick: SIXERS IN SEVEN