Harden Leads All Around Victory — Sixers Vs Raptors Recap
Philadelphia 76ers' James Harden (1) fends off Toronto Raptors' Scottie Barnes during the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, March 31, 2023, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
The Sixers defeated the Raptors 117-110 on Friday night, with PJ Tucker and James Harden highlighting the team’s winning effort.
The win brings them to 51 wins.
With five games left in the season, it was encouraging to see such an outstanding all-around that saw the Sixers operate as a well-oiled machine.
The Sixers had a historic first half in which they broke the franchise record for shooting percentage in a half (77%). James Harden turned into a flamethrower in the first half, guiding the Sixers to a 20-point lead at the half.
The Sixers certainly faltered in the second half, cooling off on offense, but the Sixers’ defense shined, which allowed big shots from James Harden and PJ Tucker to decide the game.
Important to highlight is the performance of Harden, who is looking like he’s in good shape coming off an injury.
If Harden is playing like he did against the Raptors, it makes the Sixers a much scarier team in the playoffs. Especially if that is paired with a bench unit that constantly keeps the Sixers in the game and plays stellar defense.
The way the Sixers played on both ends of the floor should be an encouraging sign for the playoffs.
