Will the Sixers advance to the next round?
The Philadelphia 76ers and Toronto Raptors will play Game 5 in the NBA Playoffs. The home side recently conceded their first loss in the series after three opening wins, but could book their place in the next round of the postseason with another success.
Philadelphia 76ers – Statistics & current form
The three-time champions most recently missed a sweep against the Raptors in a 102-110 loss at Scotiabank Arena.
Among other things, Joel Embiid’s thumb injury had a negative impact, and he is apparently only able to reach for the spalding in pain. The top centre and possible next MVP only scored 21 points in the last game.
Head coach Doc Rivers of course knows that a possible loss would be a serious weakening for his team, but at the moment it seems that Embiid will play again in the next match-up, even though he is not at 100 percent of his strength.
Toronto Raptors – Statistics & current form
For their part, the Raps are anxious about high-powered three-point shooter Fred VanVleet. This year’s All-Star only played 15 minutes before he had to leave the court prematurely due to an injury.
Instead, the Canadians have their important rookie Scottie Barnes back on board. The power forward accepted the award as “Best Rookie” of the NBA before the last game and the last time the visitors had a “ROTY” in their ranks was with Vince Carter after the 1998/99 season!
The franchise with the noble fan Drake can further increasingly rely on Pascal Siakam again. The 28-year-old recorded 34 points in the last game, the best scoring output of any player on the court.
After rather subdued performances in the first three games of the series, “Spicy P” now seems to have arrived in the playoffs.
Philadelphia 76ers – Toronto Raptors Tip
For the duel between the Philadelphia 76ers and Toronto Raptors in Game 5, the tip aims for more than 23.5 points by Pascal Siakam for the Canadians.
The power forward has improved his game and will be in the spotlight even more now that Fred VanVleet will probably not be able to play against the Sixers due to an injury sustained in the previous game.
Without the shooting guard, who delivered more than 20 points per game in the regular season, the visitors’ offense will be even more reliant on Siakam.
