The Philadelphia 76ers are heading to the Scotiabank Arena to face off against the Toronto Raptors on March 12, 2025, with both teams struggling as the NBA season approaches its conclusion. The tipoff for the game is set for 7:30 p.m. EDT. This match carries significant weight as both teams vie for positioning, albeit with vastly differing recent performances.
The Raptors enter this Atlantic Division clash with a record of 22-43, having recently found some form by winning four of their last five games, including a 119-104 victory against the Washington Wizards. Meanwhile, the 76ers hold a slightly less favorable record of 22-42, having lost 13 of their last 15 games, indicating their current struggles.
According to betting lines, the Raptors are positioned as 5-point favorites, with the over/under set at 221.5 points. The Raptors, boasting the third-best record against the spread (ATS) this season at 37-26-2, are expected to exceed their total points, especially against the struggling Philadelphia defense, which ranks dead last for defensive rebounds and total rebounds. With the 76ers surrendering 124.1 points per game over the last eight outings, the Raptors are primed to exploit these weaknesses.
The last two encounters between these teams this season have resulted in victories for Toronto, breaking what was once a seven-game win streak for the 76ers against them. This history adds intrigue to the matchup, as Philadelphia looks to rebound from their recent woes.
Key to Toronto's recent success has been players like R.J. Barrett, who is averaging over 20 points per game since February, and Immanuel Quickley, who scored roughly 22 points per game across four appearances this month. Although the Raptors will miss Scottie Barnes due to a hand sprain—his second absence this season—his 19.6 points per game average leaves a noticeable gap. Barnes’ injury was aggravated during the previous game against Washington.
Meanwhile, the injury report for the 76ers has also grown more concerning. Top players such as Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey remain out, along with Kelly Oubre and Andre Drummond, both of whom are questionable for Wednesday night’s game. This wave of injuries significantly hampers the 76ers as they attempt to salvage their season.
Despite the 76ers’ struggles, Quentin Grimes has been performing remarkably well. With his scoring at around 25.7 points per game over the last six games, he stands out as one of the few bright spots for Philadelphia. His resilience has been highlighted during tough games, such as during the matchup against the Atlanta Hawks where he managed to score 35 points along with seven rebounds.
Analysis suggests the Raptors will likely succeed if they maintain their offensive onslaught, particularly following their victory over the Wizards where they recorded 28 offensive rebounds, setting a season-high. This dominance provides them with ample second-chance opportunities, something the undersized 76ers defense is ill-equipped to handle.
The all-time matchup has grown increasingly contentious, especially with each game tightening the competitive spirit fueled by divisional stakes. Toronto’s current momentum combined with their favorable odds presents them not only as the favored team on paper but also as the one with growing confidence heading onto their home court.
Overall, excitement brews for this Atlantic Division matchup as both teams engage with injury concerns and the pressure of the impending playoffs infusing urgency. For the Raptors, this game is more than just another chance to win; it symbolizes their attempt to solidify their position and stave off any notions of tanking toward the end of the season. Conversely, the 76ers are fighting against their dismal current form, hoping to recover even marginally as the season wanes and their playoff dreams dim.
With kickoff fast approaching, fans and analysts alike are eager to see whether the Raptors can continue their upward trend or if the struggling 76ers can muster enough spirit to pull off the upset. With so many variables at play, Wednesday night promises to entertain.