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Tonight’s game features an interesting matchup between the current favorite for league MVP and a leading candidate for Rookie of the Year. While both players play center, their frames and style of play are really different. Embiid had injury issues early in his career, but he’s been dominant for the Sixers for the last several years, while the team carefully monitors his health and minutes. This is a physical mismatch for Wembanyama, as he doesn’t have the strength and bulk to bang inside against the much stronger Embiid.
Victor’s game is more predicated on movement and agility than pure power, so this will be an interesting contest of styles between the two big men. To make this a game, the Spurs will need Devin Vassell to continue his recent improvement in play, along with solid games from Jeremy Sochan and Keldon Johnson. Tre Jones provides a stabilizing influence at point guard, and the emergence of Blake Wesley as backup point makes the Spurs defense much better.
The Sixers should be easily favored to win, but this is one of those games where an improving Silver and Black can sneak up on a good team and shock the world with an upset of the third place team in the Eastern Conference. Some times, you gotta believe the hype. Let’s go Spurs.
Game Prediction:
Victor will block at least two of Embiid’s shots at the rim.
One final word:
Go Spurs GOOOOOO!!
San Antonio Spurs at Philadelphia 76ers
January 22, 2024 | 6:00 PM CT
Streaming: NBATV
TV: Bally Sports SW, NBATV
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