2024 Philadelphia 76ers playoffs picture after win vs Toronto Raptors (March 31): Updated standings, schedule and more

Despite the absence of Tyrese Maxey, the Philadelphia 76ers managed to end their three-game losing streak and defeat the Toronto Raptors 135-120 on Sunday. Kelly Oubre led the team to victory, handing the Raptors their 13th consecutive loss.

Oubre shined with a season-best 32 points and also led the game with a plus-25 rating. Cam Payne, filling in for Maxey, added 24 points to secure the win.

Kyle Lowry notched a double-double with 11 points and 10 assists in his game against his previous team.

The victory was vital for the 76ers, who have faced difficulties since Joel Embiid’s injury. Despite beginning the season with a record of 26-8, they have struggled with a 11-18 record without Embiid.

Despite missing RJ Barrett, the Raptors were still able to put up a strong performance with Gary Trent Jr. leading the team with 23 points. All five of Toronto’s starters reached double digits, and Jordan Nwora contributed an impressive 19 points coming off the bench.

Philadelphia 76ers Playoff Race: Current Team Standings

Despite currently holding the eighth spot in the Eastern Conference, the Philadelphia 76ers (40-35) have successfully secured a spot in the postseason. However, they trail the Indiana Pacers (42-33), who hold the sixth seed and are currently in a position to avoid the Play-In Tournament, by two games. Additionally, they are one game behind the Miami Heat (41-33), who hold the seventh seed.

If the current rankings are maintained, the 76ers will compete against the Heat in the Play-In Tournament. This season, Philadelphia has a record of 1-2 against Miami.

If the 76ers were to lose the first Play-In game, they would subsequently be matched up against either the Atlanta Hawks or the Chicago Bulls.

Despite missing Embiid for some of their matchups, Philadelphia has maintained a 2-2 record against the Hawks this season. They have also faced struggles against the Bulls, with a 1-2 record in games played before Embiid’s injury.

Philadelphia 76ers Playoff Schedule and Matchups

According to Tankathon, the Philadelphia 76ers are facing a relatively easy schedule, as only three of their next seven games are against playoff teams: the OKC Thunder, Miami Heat, and Orlando Magic.

The Philadelphia 76ers will also go up against the Detroit Pistons, San Antonio Spurs, Memphis Grizzlies, and Brooklyn Nets, all of which have already been eliminated from playoff contention. Should the 76ers emerge victorious in all of these matchups, they could potentially close the gap with the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers also have a favorable schedule, with four of their remaining seven games against teams that have already been eliminated.

It is possible that the Miami Heat may lose their current position, considering that five of their upcoming eight games are against teams vying for playoff spots.

Philadelphia 76ers Playoff Push: Finding Momentum

Despite heading into tonight’s game on a losing streak, the 76ers have won five of their last six games. With the absence of Embiid, it is crucial for them to gather momentum in order to secure a playoff spot or remain competitive in the Play-In Tournament.

Luckily, five out of their last six games will be played against teams that have already been eliminated. These games provide the perfect opportunity for them to gain momentum heading into the postseason.