Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NBA match.
Who would have thought before the season started that breaking a nine-game losing streak would be a cause for celebration not for the Portland Trail Blazers, but for the Philadelphia 76ers? Yet, here we are—the 76ers are playing like a typical bottom-tier team this season and are not even in contention for the playoffs.
Philadelphia 76ers
In their last game, the 76ers secured a home win against a solid Golden State Warriors side (126:119). The star of that victory was rookie Quentin Grimes, who dropped 44 points. Tyrese Maxey played the supporting role with 11 assists, while even Paul George stepped up to remind everyone he is still supposed to be the team's leader, contributing 17 points. It seems like Nick Nurse has finally managed to get through to his players, reminding them that they can’t just give up, even if their playoff hopes are almost non-existent.
Portland Trail Blazers
The Trail Blazers are not in great shape right now. Not only are they expected to be without Deandre Ayton and Jerami Grant—their two key big men—but this will also be their fifth consecutive road game. They managed to take care of a few lower-ranked teams in the first three, then pushed the Cleveland Cavaliers to overtime before losing (129:133 OT). Such a tough stretch, combined with a shortened rotation, is bound to take a toll on the players physically.
Philadelphia 76ers vs Portland Trail Blazers Prediction
Given the Trail Blazers' squad issues and the emotional boost the Philadelphia 76ers got from their last win, the 76ers have every chance to grab another victory. It won’t change their position in the standings, but at least it will lift the spirits of the home fans.
