Philadelphia-76ers vs Phoenix-suns Picks and Predictions January 6th 2025

Angry Suns Out to Change Fortunes Against Surging 76ers

The Phoenix Suns are in desperate need of a turnaround as they visit the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night. Having lost seven of their last eight games, the Suns find themselves mired in one of the roughest stretches of their season.

Suns Struggling Despite Star Power

Phoenix (15-18) began the season with an 8-1 record but has since faltered, going 7-17 over its last 24 games. Even with their core trio of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal largely healthy, the Suns have struggled to generate wins.

“We’re definitely pissed off. We’re not happy about it,” Beal said. “You don’t (see) guys smiling and happy … after four (straight) losses.”

In their latest setback, a 126-108 loss to the Indiana Pacers on Saturday, Durant and Booker combined for 45 points, 16 assists, and 15 rebounds. Beal, however, had a rough outing, scoring just eight points on 3-of-12 shooting. The Suns’ defense fell apart in the second half, allowing 70 points while Indiana tallied 35 assists and committed only eight turnovers.

“The vibes are low, man,” Booker said. “Our output is super ugly right now. We continue to build. Hopefully later in the season, these moments are out the way, but right now, we’re in the thick of it.”

76ers Finding Their Groove

The 76ers (14-19), on the other hand, are showing signs of life after a dismal 3-14 start to their season. Philadelphia has won 11 of its last 16 games and is coming off a 4-2 road trip that concluded with a commanding 123-94 win over the Brooklyn Nets.

Joel Embiid led the charge with 28 points and 12 rebounds, while Tyrese Maxey added 18 points and seven assists. Paul George chipped in 17 points and six assists, marking his third consecutive game with at least three 3-pointers.

“I thought we responded,” George said. “We made some baskets of our own and weathered that quick start by them. (We) just got our defense settled in.”

The Sixers’ chemistry appears to be improving, both on and off the court. Embiid has been consistently aggressive, attempting double-digit free throws in four straight games, and Maxey has provided steady outside shooting with 12 consecutive games featuring multiple 3-pointers.

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“We’re starting to enjoy each other out on the floor,” George said. “The stuff off the court is starting to trickle on the court, and that’s a great sign.”

Previous Meeting and Key Matchups

The Suns edged the Sixers 118-116 in their first meeting this season on Nov. 4, with Durant delivering the game-winning shot with 24 seconds remaining. Both teams will look to their stars again in this rematch.

For Phoenix, finding defensive consistency and better offensive contributions from Beal will be crucial. Meanwhile, Philadelphia aims to capitalize on its improving team chemistry and maintain its momentum at home.

The Suns are eager to reverse their fortunes, while the 76ers seek to keep climbing the standings. With both teams eyeing a win for different reasons, expect an intense battle in Philadelphia.