The NBA playoffs continue on Thursday with the East Play-In Tournament. It starts with a mouthwatering clash between the Joel Embiid and Jimmy Butler in Philadelphia.<\/p>\n
The Heat closed out the regular season with impressive wins over the Raptors, clinching victories by 15 and 22 points respectively. They choose to rest their starters in those games. So they come into this crucial matchup against the 76ers with fresh legs, aiming to secure the 7th seed and take down the Knicks again. Jimmy Butler, a playoff powerhouse, is poised to lead the charge, especially as he faces off against his former team. The Heat have a solid track record on the road, winning 7 of their last 10 away games and holding a 3-2 edge in the season series against the 76ers. They’ll be missing Terry Rozier and Duncan Robinson’s availability remains uncertain.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, the 76ers are entering the playoffs on a high note with an impressive 9-game winning streak. This streak includes five consecutive wins since Joel Embiid returned from injury. The reigning MVP has been dominant, averaging 30 points and 9 rebounds per game in just over 30 minutes of play. In their last five games, the 76ers have been scoring an average of 120.2 points while allowing only 104.6 points against them. Tyrese Maxey has been a standout performer against the Heat, dropping 37 points in their last meeting and consistently scoring over 30 points in their recent matchups. Additionally, the 76ers have secured victories in their last three home games.<\/p>\n
Tyrese Maxey has scored 26+ points in all of his last 6 home games and also has a good shooting record against the Heat.<\/p>\n
Stadium Record<\/strong><\/p>\n Philadelphia holds a 4-1 record in their last 5 home games. Miami has also won 4 of their last 5 in Philly.<\/p>\n