Philadelphia 76ers vs. Washington Wizards: X-factors, key matchups, prediction

Philadelphia 76ers vs. Washington Wizards: X-factors

Sixers: Seth Curry 

One thing that has hurt the Sixers in the past is their inability to stretch defenses in the postseason. Seth Curry was supposed to be the answer to that question. When they acquired him during the offseason, that was the thought. And so far this season, the move has paid off.

Curry averaged 13 points per game on 45 percent shooting from 3-point range. In addition to his threat on the perimeter, his scoring punch helps take some of the pressure off Embiid and Simmons on the offensive end. If he can continue to be that in the postseason, the Sixers should be a favorite to come out of the East.

Wizards: Davis Bertans 

If the Wizards are going to have any shot against the Sixers, they’re going to need someone other than Beal and Westbrook to step up. Davis Bertans is a solid candidate to be that person, especially if he can get hot from deep.

Bertans is not having the breakout season. that he had a year ago, but he’s still shooting 40 percent from 3-point range while averaging nearly 12 points per game. An explosion or two from Bertans is something that could help level the playing field and possibly allow the Wizards to steal a game or two.