Despite a slow start to the week, the 76ers ended on an encouraging note by snapping a four-game losing skid. The Sixers also made a handful of trades just before the trade deadline last week in what looks to be a full playoff push as the team anticipates Joel Embiid‘s return from injury. This week holds just two games ahead of a much needed All-Star break for Philadelphia to regroup. The 76ers are fifth in the Eastern Conference with a record of 31-21.
Trade Deadline Week in Review for Philadelphia
The 76ers started off extremely slow last week losing three consecutive games against the Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors, and Atlanta Hawks. However, Philadelphia turned things around after narrowly escaping the Washington Wizards to snap their losing streak. Tyrese Maxey poured in 28 points in the 119-113 road victory for his team.
Aside from the lackluster performances, the 76ers made a splash in news deadlines due to various roster moves during last week’s trade deadline. The Sixers first added winger Buddy Hield from the Pacers after shipping away Marcus Morris Sr., Furkan Korkmaz and three second-round picks. Hield already showed out with 20 or more points in his first two games in red, white, and blue. The team also sent Danuel House Jr. and a second-rounder to the Pistons in an attempt to stay under the luxury tax. In addition, Philadelphia traded Patrick Beverley to the Bucks for Cameron Payne and a second. Lastly, the Sixers got a 2024 second-round pick from the Celtics in exchange for Jaden Springer. A busy trade deadline held moves that show a clear playoff push for the Sixers, and the team also picked up Kyle Lowry who was recently bought out by the Hornets.
Looking for the All-Star Break
With Embiid remaining out for what seems to be about two or more months, the 76ers will take a good break during All-Star weekend to recoup with their new-look squad. Tonight, they face the red-hot Cleveland Cavaliers on the road, and on Wednesday, they will host the Miami Heat and Jimmy Butler. The team would be happy to pul out one win between these two games to gain some momentum before the break.
