3 advantages Raptors have over 76ers in potential playoff matchup

1. Tertiary scoring

Let’s be honest. The Sixers have the two best players in this series in Embiid and Harden. Is it hyperbole to suggest that the Raptors have the next four and potentially five best on their roster? That ability to get high-level scoring from multiple positions will be integral to the upset bid.

While Harris can go off on any given night, he’s averaged just 14.3 points per game and shot 31% from the field against Toronto. If he falters, Toronto’s arsenal of proven NBA scorers could be enough to cancel out the production Embiid is going to post.

The Toronto Raptors have the scorers to take down the 76ers.

Gary Trent Jr. had a five-game stretch in which he topped 30 points in every game, which proves the kind of lethal weapon he could be if he gets hot. Rookie of the Year frontrunner Barnes should have no trouble getting to the rim, and OG Anunoby’s quality 3-point shooting should give Philly a headache if he’s healthy.

It might be possible to keep Siakam in check for a game or two. Heck, Philly might get lucky and limit both Siakam and VanVleet. What they won’t do, however, is make sure all five of Toronto’s starters struggle to get open shots. This advantage makes the Raptors more adaptable to whatever Philadelphia might challenge them with.