The Toronto Raptors will have to pull off something that’s never been done in NBA history if they hope to advance past the Philadelphia 76ers in their first round series.
After Wednesday’s crushing overtime loss to Philadelphia thanks to an unreal shot by Joel Embiid, the Raptors now face a 3-0 in the best-of-seven series, something that’s never been overcome in playoff history.
The Raptors were in a prime position to claim their first win of the series in Game 3 after having lost Games 1 and 2 by an average of 17.5 points per game, but in the end, Embiid’s 33 points and 13 boards proved too much.
Now, the long process of trying to make this a series begins Saturday afternoon in one of four straight must-win games.
Philadelphia 76ers vs Toronto Raptors Odds, Spread, Over/Under
The latest odds from WynnBET have Philadelphia as -3.0 point favorites against the spread, with this squad -108 (bet $108 to win $100) to cover. Philly is -160 on the moneyline while Toronto checks in at +135 (bet $100 to win $135).
The over-under in this contest is 213.0, with the under coming in at -108 and the over listed at -108.
Raptors Starting Lineup Today
Fred VanVleet
Gary Trent Jr
OG Anunoby
Pascal Siakam
Khem Birch
Raptors Injury Report
Per Saturday’s injury report at 1:30 p.m. ET, NBA Rookie of the Year Scottie Barnes is probable.
Toronto Raptors vs Philadelphia 76ers Prediction
This is it. Every game from here on out is do or die. Even though the Raptors have been hobbled by injuries, they’re still a proud organization and want to give their home fans something to cheer about despite being overmatched so far in this series.
As is usually the case, one of the biggest keys to victory will be limiting the free throw attempts of Joel Embiid and James Harden, who can both hurt teams in enough ways as it is. Toronto also needs a group effort on the boards, as they’ve been outclassed in the rebounding department in all three games of the series so far.
Although this series might already be virtually over, I feel like Toronto will show some fight here and extend their season by at least one more game.
Raptors 109, 76ers 104
What channel is the Toronto Raptors game on?
Saturday’s game will be broadcast at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT on TNT and NBC Sports Philadelphia.
Toronto Raptors vs Philadelphia 76ers Live Stream
If you need a live stream, check out FuboTV for a free trial!
Raptors’ Next Game and Schedule
If the Raptors win on Saturday, the series will shift back to Philadelphia for Game 5 on Monday, April 25th, at 8 p.m. ET.