Here are four keys to success for the Philadelphia 76ers to take down the Charlotte Hornets on Monday afternoon.
The Philadelphia 76ers (24-20) are taking on the Charlotte Hornets (18-28) Monday afternoon without Joel Embiid and Paul George.
Here are four keys to success for the Sixers:
1. Tyrese Maxey Needs A Huge Offensive Performance
With no George or Embiid in the mix, Maxey is forced to play superhero yet again this season. He has delivered in this situation many times, which is why his name continues to come up in MVP conversations. However, he's struggled to meet his standards in Philadelphia's latest stretch of games, namely with his efficiency.
For Philadelphia to emerge victorious, it's almost a necessity that Maxey scores 30+ points, as he did in the recent win over the Houston Rockets.
2. Kelly Oubre Jr. Must Continue Thriving
Oubre continues to prove why his name should not be involved in trade rumors leading up to the Feb. 5 trade deadline. He has recorded 18 or more points in three of his last four performances, which is why he's now earned a spot in the starting lineup. Although much pressure will fall on Maxey today, Oubre will need to act as a top scoring option for Philadelphia.
3. At Least Slow Down LaMelo Ball
It was superstar guard Jalen Brunson, who carried the Knicks over the Sixers with 31 points and six assists on 45.8% shooting. Philadelphia cannot afford to let Ball do the same. He is averaging 19.3 points, 7.5 assists, and 5.0 rebounds on 40.7% shooting this season but has proven in games past the ability to get hot.
Take the Hornets' win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Jan. 15 as an example. He finished that game with 30 points, 11 assists, and nine made three-pointers. If he puts up similar numbers, it will be tough for the 76ers to come out on top.
4. Win The Rebound Battle
The Knicks dominated Philadelphia on the glass, which was a key reason they won the game. Charlotte's frontcourt is not nearly as polarizing as New York's, but without Embiid in the lineup, winning the rebound battle will remain a challenge.
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