Sixers Podcast: Sixers end losing streak + NBA All-Defensive Teams
The Sixer Sense Podcast is back with the Philadelphia 76ers ending their three-game losing streak versus the Dallas Mavericks with a 116-108 win on Wednesday night. The Sixers continued their 4th quarter dominance recently outscoring the Mavs 27-17 in the decisive period. Joel Embiid had 25 points and 9 rebounds while Tyrese Maxey contributed with 22 points. Dallas has severely underperformed since acquiring Kyrie Irving and even with the offensive firepower, they are on the verge of missing the Play-In tournament.
Lucas Johnson, Christopher Kline, and Jonathan Geib also discuss the Sixers versus Denver Nuggets game Monday night. This was billed as a matchup of the two leading MVP candidates, Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic. Unfortunately, Embiid was having calf soreness, a potentially concerning issue of late, and was forced to sit out. The Sixers lost 116-11 and Jokic put up 25 points, 17 rebounds, and 12 assists. Maxey was the bright spot for the team leading the way with 29 points and Paul Reed provided 16 points off the bench on perfect shooting from the field.
There was discussion in the media questioning if Embiid was “ducking” Jokic and a lot of criticism was being directed at the Sixers’ big man. Two things are important to remember though. First off, two months ago Embiid and Jokic faced off and Embiid put up 47 points and 18 rebounds. The media seems to love having short-term memory. Second, Embiid’s health for the playoffs is more important than any matchup, award, or anything else. Yet it is necessary to discuss the possibility that Embiid missing this game will affect his MVP chances.
The group ends the podcast by continuing their discussion about the NBA award season. In this episode, Lucas, Chris, and Jonathan provide their NBA All-Defensive first and second teams. The league is flush with defensive stalwarts in the frontcourt and there is genuine disagreement between the guys on who should be on these teams. Will any Philadelphia 76ers make these teams? Give us al listen to find out!
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