Sixers Aim to Send the Raptors Season Into Extinction
by Matt Minarik
Going into this round one series against the Toronto Raptors there were many questions about the Philadelphia 76ers. Is James Harden done? Who will step up their game? Is Tyrese Maxey ready? How will they overcome Matisse Thybulle’s loss on the road? Many of those questions have been answered or partially answered and it’s only been three games. James Harden is playing very well, Tobias Harris is playing like the Tobias we expect, and Tyrese Maxey is unshakable. The perimeter defense struggled in game three, but they overcame it.
Now, the Sixers are on the verge of completing their first playoff series sweep since the 1990-91 season when they swept the Milwaukee Bucks 3-0 in round one. This would be their first 4-0 sweep since the 1984-85 season when they swept the Washington Bullets in the second round. In their history, the Sixers are 3-3 in seven-game series whey they are going into game four leading 3-0.
SERIES RECAP
Game one was the Tyrese Maxey show. The young superstar scored 38 points, shooting 14-21 including 5-8 from three. Game two was a full team effort. All five starters scored in double-figures. Joel Embiid led the way with 31 points and 11 rebounds. Tobias Harris added 20 points and 10 rebounds, and Tyrese Maxey with 23 points, 8 assists, and 9 rebounds. Game three will forever be known as the game with Joel Embiid’s game-winning three right before the buzzer. Overall, it wasn’t the Sixers best game. At times, their play was sloppy turning the ball over a total of 22 times. They allowed too many open shots and didn’t hold a lead until late in the game. However, the Raptors threw everything possible at them and the Sixers fought and fought until they were in position to win the game in overtime, which they did.
You all know what the Play of the Game is tonight. Here is Tom McGinnis's call of the Real MVP's Game Winning 3pter, and the eventual win. Sixers are up 3-0 in this series. pic.twitter.com/tMY2AEbEvz
— 97.5 The Fanatic (@975TheFanatic) April 21, 2022
INJURIES
76ers – Joel Embiid suffered a torn ligament in his thumb on his shooting hand at some point during game three. It is unclear how it will affect him but he made it clear that there is no chance he will miss today’s game. Matisse Thybulle is ineligible to play and will be out. Charles Bassey is out with a shoulder sprain
Raptors – Scottie Barnes is unlikely to play with his injured ankle.
HOW TO FOLLOW THE GAME
RADIO: 97.5 The Fanatic – Coverage begins at 1:50 with Devon Givens and the pre-game show followed by Tom McGinnis on the call for the game.
TV: NBC Sports Philadelphia (Local), TNT (National)
THE FANATIC’S OFFICIAL WATCH PARTY: Jamie Lynch and Pat Egan at Rivers Casino Philadelphia starting at 1 pm. Watch the game on the 56-foot video wall. Enjoy Miller lite specials and 76 cent wings. Win great prizes including Sixers jerseys.
