Philadelphia 76ers
The 76ers had arguably their best performance of the season in game 3, utterly dominating this Raptors side at home. Joel Embiid led the way spectacularly, going off for 33 points, 10 boards, and 5 blocks in just 28 minutes. Jimmy Butler also continued his strong form, pouring in 22 points, 9 boards, and 9 assists of his own. Tobias Harris, JJ Redick, Ben Simmons, and James Ennis all contributed in double figures in what was very much a strong team win.
Toronto Raptors
Conversely, the Raptors had arguably their worst loss of the year last time out and their season might be on the line here. Kawhi Leonard continues to ball out, dropping 33 points on 13/22 shooting. Pascal Siakam is bringing everything he has, going for 20 points but struggling somewhat against Joel Embiid. Kyle Lowry and Marc Gasol need to be significantly improved here, as does the Toronto bench which has gone missing this series.
Prediction: Raptors +2.5
After consecutive demoralising losses, the Raptors are due for a reaction in this one. They’re playing significantly below their usual level and need to make some coaching adjustments here. I expect Kawhi to remain the best player in this series, while Lowry simply has to step up in this one. The Siakam injury does worry me, but I expect him to grit through it with their season essentially on the line.
Portland Trail Blazers
The Blazers enter this one off a pivotal game 3 win in what was a quadruple overtime thriller. CJ McCollum put the team on his back in this one, dropping 41 points and 8 boards in 60 minutes of action. Dame Lillard wasn’t far behind, adding 28 points, 8 assists, and 6 boards of his own. While he may not be the most likeable bloke, Enes Kanter deserves credit for another double-double with his separated shoulder.
Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets fought valiantly in game 3 but ultimately didn’t do enough to get the job done. Nikola Jokic was absolutely insane, dropping 33 points, 18 boards, and 14 assists in an astounding 65 minutes. Jamal Murray was also very effective, battling injury and hitting several key shots en route to 34 points and 9 boards. Paul Millsap also deserves credit for another gritty double-double, going for 17 points and 13 boards of his own.
Prediction: Nuggets +4
Despite coming off an incredibly demoralising loss, I think Denver has actually looked like the better side this series. They were in control for large portions of this game and I don’t see how Portland contains Jokic. Not to mention the motivational edge they have here as coming back from 3-1 would be awfully difficult. I can definitely see the Nuggets winning this one outright but I’ll gladly take the 4 points for added security.