76ers Visit Nets in Pivotal Game 3
Embiid's Absence Looms Large for Philadelphia
Brookyln Looking to Seize Momentum
The Philadelphia 76ers (35-25) face a crucial test on Tuesday when they visit the Brooklyn Nets (24-37) for Game 3 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series. Despite being the higher-seeded team, the 76ers find themselves in a precarious 1-1 tie due to the absence of star center Joel Embiid.
Embiid, who is averaging 30.6 points and 11.7 rebounds per game this season, suffered a concussion and right orbital fracture in Game 6 of the first round. His absence has been a major blow to the 76ers, who rely heavily on his scoring and rebounding prowess.
The Nets, on the other hand, have been playing with renewed vigor under interim head coach Jacque Vaughn. They stole home-court advantage from the 76ers in Game 2, thanks to a dominant performance from Kevin Durant. Durant scored 33 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, and dished out 5 assists.
With Embiid out, the 76ers will need other players to step up. Tobias Harris has been a consistent scorer, but he will need to produce even more in Embiid's absence. Tyrese Maxey has also been impressive in the playoffs, averaging 20.5 points per game.
The Nets will try to capitalize on Embiid's absence by continuing to rely on Durant and Kyrie Irving. Irving scored 24 points in Game 2, but he will need to be more efficient from the field. The Nets will also need to get more production from their role players, especially Seth Curry and Joe Harris.
Tip-off for Game 3 is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET from Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The Nets are favored by 3.5 points at BetMGM Sportsbook.
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