The Philadelphia 76ers are on the brink of playoff elimination as they prepare to host the Miami Heat. Currently in the midst of a six-game losing streak, the Sixers are dealing with significant injury woes. Key players such as Joel Embiid, Paul George, Eric Gordon, and Jared McCain are all sidelined, while Tyrese Maxey, Kyle Lowry, Kelly Oubre Jr., and Andre Drummond will also miss the game. Maxey, Lowry, and Oubre practiced partially leading up to the game, indicating slight hope for their recovery, while Drummond was unable to participate.

As the Sixers face the Heat, their postseason hopes hang by a thread. A loss would officially eliminate them from playoff contention, marking the first time the franchise would miss the postseason since 2016-17. In contrast, the Heat will be looking to capitalize on this opportunity to strengthen their own playoff position. With tip-off set for 7:30 p.m. EDT at the Wells Fargo Center, all eyes will be on the injured and absent players, as well as how the remaining Sixers can step up amidst adversity.