The Philadelphia 76ers play host to the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night in a showdown from the Wells Fargo Center. Dallas comes in struggling of late, as they look to make a final push towards the Western Conference playoffs. For the 76ers, they have their eyes set on finishing the season and getting back into the win column themselves. Dallas won by seven when these two squared off earlier this month but with the rematch in Philadelphia, making it a season sweep would be quite the task.
What once looked like a memorable season for the Mavericks, has now turned into trouble as the postseason draws near. Sitting in 11th-place heading into this one, the Mavericks sit a half-game outside of the playoff picture. A recent 3-7 run has them scrambling as the final stretch of the season is upon us, while a trip to Philadelphia isn't likely to make things much easier for this group. Besides having a losing record overall, they have a losing record (15-23) in road games as well. Add in comments made by team members of late, and the struggles on the court, in addition to the off-court distractions, might be too much for this group to overcome.
It won't help matters that Dallas has a pair of injuries that they'll be carrying into this one as well. Frank Ntilikina (knee) is questionable, while Maxi Kleber (hamstring) joins him. While neither are stars, both provide depth and will be missed if they can& #39;t go.
MAXI KLEBER GAME WINNER!!!!!!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/xEigm97YQl
— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) March 18, 2023
Even though Dallas' metrics leaves quite a bit to be desired, having two superstars will always give them a chance. They rank ninth in three-point shooting, though that may not be helpful in this one, considering Philadelphia's strong perimeter defense. Beyond that, Dallas isn't likely to generate many second-chance opportunities, especially with Kleber's injury. On the defensive side, they'll have their hands full as well, especially against Embiid. Expect Luka Doncic (32.9 ppg) and Kyrie Irving (26.3 ppg) to lead the way but until they can find a consistent third option, it's likely to not be enough against the NBA's elite teams.
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