The losing streak has made what would otherwise a lost, forgotten season into a national story for the Philadelphia 76ers. Tonight, when they host the Detroit Pistons, they will have one final chance to avoid setting the all-time record of 27 consecutive losses.
It has been the butt of many jokes for the proud franchise. Just last night, late night show host Jimmy Fallon had a nice string of jokes about them for the losing streak. Among them, he accurately points out, that when the streak began Jay Leno was still the host of the Tonight Show, not him.
That really puts the streak in perspective. When the 76ers last won a game, the Denver Broncos, who lost by 35, were still Super Bowl favorites and the top story was Richard Sherman’s rage in his post-NFC title game interview.
Fallon explains the sentiment of the losing streak quite accurately: “When the game begins, the score board actually says ‘Sixers’ on one said and ‘Winners’ on the other.”
So the NBA will have their eyes on Philadelphia tonight as the Sixers will look to avoid the history books. Surely, the Cleveland Cavilers will be rooting for their rival Pistons tonight as the Cavs’ 26 game streak, which the Sixers tied on Wednesday will be erased.
If you’re down on the losing streak and not feeling the “tank”, just think of this: How many people really remembered the Cavilers losing streak? Drafting Kyrie Irving, this year’s All Star Game MVP, helped a lot.
Together, we build.
Game Notes:
- Andre Drummond has had his way against Philadelphia this season. The big man averages 15.0 rpg and leads a talented front court against a weak one for Philadelphia. It has improved with rim protector Henry Sims, but he will have his hands full tonight.
- Detroit has out rebounded Philadelphia 177-127 this season.
- The Sixers have lost to 20 different teams during the losing streak
- Michael Carter-Williams has averaged 5 steals in games against the Pistons this season
- After missing his last three games with a sprained ankle, Tony Wroten will return to the rotation tonight.
- Detroit is only 4-17 in their last 21 games.
Starting Lineups:
Sixers:
PG Michael Carter-Williams
SG James Anderson
SF Hollis Thompson
PF Thaddeus Young
C Henry Sims
Pistons:
PG Brandon Jennings
SG Kyle Singler
SF Josh Smith
PF Greg Monroe
C Andre Drummond
Injuries: Jason Richardson and Nerlens Noel will not play for the Sixers, as they both recover from knee injuries. Likewise, Chauncey Billups and Josh Harrellson are out for the Pistons as well with knee injuries.
Prediction: The streak will officially stand alone tonight. Detroit avoids the embarrassment and wins this won.
