3 surefire events and 2 surprises that might happen in 76ers-Nets series

3 surefire events and 2 big surprises that might happen in 76ers-Nets series

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 11: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Spencer Dinwiddie #26 of the Brooklyn Nets in action against Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers at Barclays Center on February 11, 2023 in New York City. The 76ers defeated the Nets 101-98. 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. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

1. Joel Embiid will score a lot of points, Harden net a lot of assists

The Nets have only played the 76ers once with their revamped roster, and it was back on February 11, right after the trades. The Sixers eked out a three-point win but center Joel Embiid had no problems.

The future MVP scored 37 points and grabbed 13 rebounds as the Nets had no answer for him. Claxton has the athleticism but not the size, while backup Day’Ron Sharpe is just 21, and way over his head if guarding Embiid. .

If you remember that February game, the frisky Nets (reference Surefire point 3) held a seven-point lead entering the four quarter, when Embiid and James Harden basically took over.

Harden only had six assists that game, but he scored 29 points, which is a nice tradeoff. The rest of the team, not named Embiid, was awful that day (the other three starters totaled five points), so there was not much opportunity to pile up assists.

This game was two months ago and the chemistry between Harden and the rest of the team has improved. Expect Harden, who is also playing against his old team, to want to put on a show.

Assuming there are no injury problems (a big if with Harden and Embiid), both are sure to have big series.