When not thinking about the Eagles, Philadelphia fans might be wondering if the Sixers really need Joel Embiid and Paul George. Philly seems to be doing fine without either of them in this current four-game win streak (George missing the last two) with others gladly pulling the weight, especially Tyrese Maxey, who has scored 30+ in three straight games. Philly is also playing some real defense lately for Nick Nurse, allowing under 102 pg the past three. Recent wins include successes over the Cavs and Lakers. Speaking of defense, Denver isn't playing much in its three-game skid, allowing 128 pg in the slump, and the Nuggets' questionable depth has resulted in a tired-looking team as the All-Star break looms. Play Sixers

Paul George will miss his third straight game with a finger injury. Eric Gordon scored at least 14 points in both of the last two games without him. Gordon has also scored at least 13 points in four straight games. He scored nine points against the Nuggets 10 days ago despite playing just 19 minutes. The Nuggets have played at the fifth-fastest pace in the league, so more minutes should help Gordon hit this over.

We're going right back to the Tyrese Maxey well and fading his assist line. The 76ers are once again without their entire starting front court, in addition to Andre Drummond, leaving a massive scoring responsibility on Maxey's plate. Maxey also averages only 5.8 APG on the season without Joel Embiid, compared to 6.6 with Embiid active. This game also has some massive blowout potential which could lead to him not playing much in then final frame.

All of a sudden the Sixers are hot! Four straight wins? Wow. Their last loss came at Denver .... By 35. Nuggets have let up some and I suspect they take out their frustrations here. Defense was suspect vs the Knicks and they'll hear about it from their coaching staff. The Joker might have a 20-20-20 game here. Philly is due for a letdown. They have been worse at home than road. Denver won't lose a 4th straight game and I expect a very different look here. Philadelphia is 4-12-2 ATS its last 18 games vs. the West.