The Philadelphia 76ers are set to host the Denver Nuggets on Friday night, looking to end January on a high note. After a month of 17 games and five back-to-backs, the team has shown significant improvement, currently riding a four-game winning streak.
Joel Embiid’s injury update had raised concerns, but Tyrese Maxey has been playing his best basketball all season, scoring at least 25 points per game in his last 12 contests. Kelly Oubre Jr. and Guerschon Yabusele have also been consistently contributing to the team’s success.
However, the real challenge lies ahead as the Nuggets, led by MVP candidate Nikola Jokic, come to town. Jokic is averaging a triple-double with 29.7 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 10.1 assists per game, making him a formidable opponent for the Sixers.
Last time these teams met, Denver took full advantage of Philadelphia’s struggling defense, winning 144-109. But the Sixers have shown improvement in their defense and scoring, with Maxey and Yabusele being the only two players to score more than 11 points in that game.
The Sixers will still be without Embiid, George, Drummond, Martin, and KJ Martin, but the team on the floor has found its groove. With a chance to improve upon their previous performance, the squad is looking to end January on a winning note against the Nuggets.
Game details: The Center, Philadelphia, PA, 7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN, NBC Sports Philadelphia, Radio: 97.5 The Fanatic
Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/2025/1/31/24355837/philadelphia-sixers-denver-nuggets-tyrese-maxey-nikola-jokic-joel-embiid-guerschon-yabusele