Sixers, Jazz Face Off Amid Injuries and Playoff Desperation

PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Philadelphia 76ers are set to host the Utah Jazz on Sunday evening, marking the 63rd game of a challenging season. Both teams arrive at the matchup under unfortunate circumstances, with key players sidelined due to injuries.

The Sixers will miss several significant contributors: Paul George (groin), Tyrese Maxey (back, finger), Eric Gordon (wrist), and Kyle Lowry (hip) are all out. In addition, Joel Embiid and Jared McCain have been confirmed for the rest of the season. Jalen Hood-Schifino is also unavailable as he is with the G League on a two-way contract.

The Jazz are not faring any better on the injury front. Lauri Markkanen (back), Walker Kessler (rest), Collin Sexton (ankle), Jordan Clarkson (plantar fasciitis), Taylor Hendricks (fibula fracture), and John Collins (back) are all absent for the game. Elijah Harkless is also on G League duty. Former Sixer Jaden Springer (back) and Oscar Tschiebwe (G League, two-way) are both listed as questionable.

As the season nears its conclusion, Boston’s recent victory over the Chicago Bulls has placed the Sixers in a precarious position. Currently, they find themselves four games behind the Bulls for the No. 10 spot in the Eastern Conference, indicating a diminishing hope for a Play-In Tournament berth.

With the Sixers positioned seventh in the lottery, the stakes for both teams become crystal clear. Philadelphia is eagerly looking ahead to the draft, particularly eyeing the fifth and sixth spots, which are held by teams that recently lost, providing the Sixers with an opportunity to gain ground. As it stands, the Nets occupy sixth place following a recent loss to the Charlotte Hornets, which further complicates the Sixers’ playoff ambitions.

The current odds of retaining their first-round pick for the Sixers are telling: they stand at 63.9% for the fifth lottery position, 45.8% for sixth, and drop to 31.9% for seventh. Moving up to fifth is crucial for maintaining their pick, effectively doubling their odds of keeping it.

For the Jazz, the scenario is equally strategic. They are currently vying for the No. 2 lottery position, which guarantees a top-six draft pick. With the Charlotte Hornets closely trailing them, the Jazz are motivated to perform and retain their advantageous position.

Fans and analysts alike can expect a uniquely chaotic matchup tonight, as both teams are caught in a web of injuries and unrelenting draft strategies. The anticipation builds as the Sixers and Jazz prepare to tip off at 7:30 p.m. ET at the Wells Fargo Center.

For those unable to attend, the game will be aired on NBC Sports Philadelphia with radio coverage on 97.5 The Fanatic.