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The Sixers are riding a 3 game losing streak down to The Big Easy to square off against the Kentucky Twin Towers and the Pelicans for the first time this season.
The Pelicans, who are 13-13 on the year have gone 2-5 in their last 7 games and if the struggling Sixers want to steal a win on this road trip, this would be the game to do it; but, it’s not going to come easily.
It’s uncertain whether the best two-way player in the NBA, Robert Covington, will play in tonight’s game. Last night he went down hard and landed on a metal box behind the Cavaliers bench; he was later diagnosed with a lower back contusion and he did travel down to New Orleans with the team. However, the Sixers will probably stick on the safe side and sit him out tonight.
The best backup point guard in the game, T.J. McConnell is also doubtful for this game as he is still recovering from the sprained AC Joint in his right shoulder.
A bright spot here is that Joel Embiid WILL be playing in tonight’s game after missing last night’s game due to load management and rest. Embiid’s presence on both ends of the court should help combat the dynamic front court tandem of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins.
Cousins is averaging 26/12/5 on the season while Davis is chipping in 24/10/2. Embiid will most likely be strapped to Cousins and the last time these two met, the got in to a butt slapping duel in Sacramento when Boogie was still a member of the Kings.
DeMarcus also had some high praise for Joel after the game in Sac Town.
We will hopefully see this budding bromance continue to blossom tonight as the Sixers desperately need a win to get back on track.
However, shining jewel Joel Embiid has struggled offensively against the Davis and the Pelicans, only scoring 14 in their first matchup, and a mere 11 points in the second and final matchup on last season. But, it’s been 355 days since Embiid last battled Davis, and Embiid is much improved.
One more thing to ponder: will this finally be the game where we see the Sixers bench come alive and contribute to a much needed win?
Game info:
7:00 pm EST @Smoothie King Center, New Orleans
Watch: NBC Sports Philadelphia
Listen: 97.5 The Fanatic
Follow Along on Twitter: @Liberty_Ballers