2024 Philadelphia 76ers playoffs picture following loss vs Cleveland Cavaliers (March 29): Updated standings, schedule and more

Despite their numerous injuries, the Philadelphia 76ers gave their all against the Cleveland Cavaliers but ultimately fell short in a devastating 117-114 loss on Friday. Kyle Lowry, who had a spectacular performance in his Philly debut, and Tyrese Maxey attempted to rally the team but were unable to secure the win. This defeat marks their third consecutive loss, but they remain in eighth place in the highly competitive Eastern Conference standings.

Despite missing key players Joel Embiid, Robert Covington, and De’Anthony Melton, the 76ers have put up a strong fight in their games. However, this disadvantage has ultimately resulted in a decline in their standing. The next eight games for Philadelphia will play a crucial role in determining the number of wins they will need in the Play-In tournament in order to secure a spot in the playoffs.

Philadelphia 76ers must secure a 5-3 record or higher

To secure the eighth spot in the East, the 76ers (39-35) must win at least five of their remaining eight regular season games. However, if they only manage to win four of those games and the Chicago Bulls (35-39) win all of their remaining games, the 76ers will drop to ninth place. In this case, the 76ers will need to win two games in the Play-In tournament in order to advance to the next round.

With a record of 34-39, the Atlanta Hawks are also in contention for overtaking Philadelphia. However, achieving this will require them to win all of their remaining games. This task may prove to be extremely challenging without the presence of Trae Young, and their remaining schedule includes matchups against tough opponents such as the Milwaukee Bucks, Denver Nuggets, and Minnesota Timberwolves.

Despite facing less difficult opponents, Chicago’s upcoming games still pose a challenge. The Bulls will face the Timberwolves, the New York Knicks (twice), and the Orlando Magic. They are expected to be the underdogs in these matchups.

The Philadelphia 76ers are currently in the eighth spot, but they will need to perform strongly in order to finish with a record of 5-3 or better. They will have to rely on the Bulls and Hawks to sweep the table, as it is highly probable that they will remain in the same position they are currently holding onto.

Philadelphia’s Playoff Hopes Boosted by Potential Return of Joel Embiid

Before the defeat to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Philadelphia 76ers coach Nick Nurse informed the media that Joel Embiid had been given permission to accompany his teammates on their travels. According to reports, the current MVP has participated in a few low-intensity training sessions and may make his comeback prior to the conclusion of the regular season.

If Embiid is activated, it is certain that Philly’s likelihood of keeping the eighth spot will increase. Despite any load management he may undergo, he remains a crucial player for Nurse’s team.

The Philadelphia 76ers simply desire to secure a spot in the playoffs by any means necessary. If they only have to win once in the Play-In tournament, achieving this objective will be significantly more manageable.