Injuries Push Sixers Down Standings; Nets Weigh Porter Jr. Future; Raptors’ Off-Season Questions Loom
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The short-handed Philadelphia 76ers suffered another setback Monday night in Cleveland, their fourth loss in five games, and slipped to eighth place in the Eastern Conference. Guard Justin Edwards noted that “four of our five starters” are out, adding that the team believes it can rebound once the lineup is intact.
Sixers Injury Report
• Joel Embiid – limited to two appearances over the past month because of a strained right oblique – will be re-evaluated after Tuesday’s game.
• Tyrese Maxey – wearing a splint for a finger sprain suffered over the weekend – is scheduled to see a specialist later this week, head coach Nick Nurse said.
• Rookie VJ Edgecombe continues to recover from a lumbar contusion.
• Paul George has two weeks remaining on his 25-game suspension.
Guard Cameron Payne stressed that the roster must “go 1-0 every day,” emphasizing defense, shot creation and teamwork to remain in the playoff mix.
Nets Face Decision on Michael Porter Jr.
The Brooklyn Nets must determine this summer whether to extend swingman Michael Porter Jr. or explore trade options, according to The New York Post. After a strong first half, Porter has cooled, but sources said he has met with general manager Sean Marks and expressed a desire to stay. Porter, who sat out Monday, said his personal motivation remains high even if a postseason berth is unlikely.
Brooklyn Focused on Winning, Not Lottery Odds
Both clubs were depleted Monday when the Nets beat Memphis, a result that moved Brooklyn to fourth in the draft-lottery race. Center DayRon Sharpe said the locker room is intent on competing: “Nobody likes losing… always trying to win and always bring good energy.”
Raptors Mailbag Highlights
In a mailbag for The Athletic, Eric Koreen examined whether Toronto should entertain offers for Gradey Dick this off-season and discussed the long-term outlook for forward Collin Murray-Boyles.
Source: Hoops Rumors
