Game Preview
The struggling Philadelphia 76ers (2-12) look to snap their five-game losing skid as they host the Brooklyn Nets (6-9) on Friday night. The 76ers have been in a miserable rut, averaging just 98.2 points over their last five games while allowing 109.2 - a nearly 11-point differential. Their struggles have been compounded by subpar shooting, hovering around 42% from the field and a shade above 31% from three during this stretch.
Meanwhile, the Nets have found slightly more success, going 2-3 in their last five games. However, they've been leaking points at an alarming rate, surrendering 119.4 per contest despite averaging a respectable 112.6 themselves. Brooklyn's offense has been buoyed by scorching 43.2% three-point shooting, but their defensive lapses have negated those fireworks.
On the season, the 76ers have been anemic offensively, averaging just 103.9 points per game while struggling to crack 43% from the field. Their 39.8 rebounds and 21.2 assists per game highlight an unselfish approach, but they've been coughing up the rock far too often with 13.7 turnovers. The Nets have been marginally better on offense, pouring in 111.7 points while shooting 46% from the floor. They've also been dishing out 26.6 assists per game, a telling sign of unselfish ball movement.
While both teams have been leaking points at an alarming rate, the Nets' offensive firepower and slightly better percentages could give them an edge in this matchup. However, the 76ers will look to tighten their grip defensively and limit turnovers to snap their skid. With both teams struggling to gain traction, this could be a pivotal clash as the season approaches the quarter mark.