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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

On the second night of a back-to-back, the Philadelphia 76ers are set to play against the Golden State Warriors. The  76ers, currently on a challenging four-game west coast trip with a 0-2 record, are facing setbacks as Joel Embiid, the reigning NBA MVP, has been sidelined due to a knee injury. In their game against Portland on Monday, the Sixers suffered a significant defeat as they were further hampered by the absence of Tyrese Maxey.

As they gear for the match-up tonight, things remain uncertain regarding the participation of Joel Embiid (Left knee soreness) and Tyrese Maxey Left ankle sprain). The duo have been important in the victory run of the Sixers and missing them in action is hurting the team’s chances big time. Besides Maxey-Embiid, the Sixers are also without the services of Robert Covington and De’Anthony Melton.

The Warriors are also in the same boat as they are coming off a close 145-144 double-overtime loss to the Lakers. They are also dealing with injuries, with three crucial role players Chris Paul, Moses Moody, and Gary Payton II expected to be out for today’s contest. Warriors have been down on their luck lately and without Cp3 to run second unit, the job at hand looks even more difficult.

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With both teams short-handed and on a terrible run, the question remains: can the Warriors defeat an Embiid-less Sixers?

Warriors vs. Sixers: A closer look

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The historical record between the 76ers and Warriors over the year tilts in favor of Philadelphia at 170-155. In the latest face-off, Golden State emerged victorious with a notable performance from Steph Curry, who contributed 29 points, eight rebounds, and three assists. This was despite Joel Embiid’s impressive stats of 46 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists. Currently standing third in the Eastern Conference with a 29-16 record, the Sixers have encountered a three-game losing streak against the Indiana Pacers, Denver Nuggets, and Portland Trail Blazers, with the most recent loss to Portland led by Kelly Oubre Jr., scoring 25 points and securing six rebounds.

Read More: Moving Dangerously Close to Fumbling MVP Race, Joel Embiid’s Greater Plans Revealed After Ducking Nikola Jokic Battle

The Warriors, sitting in the 12th place in the Western Conference with a 19-24 record, are on a two-game losing streak, facing narrow one-point defeats against the Sacramento Kings and the LA Lakers in double overtime, where Curry notably scored 46 points, including nine 3-pointers.

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To stay competitive for a playoff spot, the Warriors need to bounce back from their two close losses. While acknowledging their recent improved performance, securing a playoff berth remains a considerable challenge.

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