Raptors Path to Becoming First Team to Erase 3-0 Deficit More Realistic

Could it happen?

The Toronto Raptors are attempting to become the first team in NBA history to erase a 3-0 series deficit and beat the Philadelphia 76ers. After winning Game 5 in Philadelphia, 103-88, the Raptors are now two games away from entering unchartered territory. Even getting this far is rare.

After sitting north of +3000 before Game 4, the Raptors are now +500 to take down the Sixers at WynnBET Sportsbook.

Here are the odds for Game 6 in Toronto.

Sixers vs. Raptors, Odds, Spread, Total

Spread:

• Sixers: -1.5 (-110)
• Raptors: +1.5 (-110)

Moneyline:

• Sixers: -125
• Raptors: +105

Total: 209 (Over -110/Under -110)

Joel Embiid's Injury Impact on the Series

Embiid is dealing with torn ligaments in his thumb, but is playing through the injury. However, his play has slipped considerably, combining for 41 points over the last two games (he suffered the injury during the Sixers Game 3 win).

With Embiid's play hampered by the injury, the team has leaned on James Harden more than ever to take over, but struggled in the Game 4 loss, scoring 15 points on 4-of-11 shooting. Three's concern if the MVP candidate can hold up over the next two games, and even more fear over the former MVP's play this series.

Of course, the Sixers can still win one of two games and end this series, especially considering the Raptors may be without guard Fred VanVleet the rest of the series as he recovers from a hip injury suffered in Game 4.

In spite of that, the recent history of head coach Doc Rivers and the 76ers postseason appearances, there is growing fear that the team will be on the wrong side of history. Given the series prices as well as the Game 6 and (projected) Game 7 line, it may be better to play the Raptors game by game rather than take the +500.