Sixers Are Disrespected in 2024 NBA Championship Odds

The All-Star break couldn't have come sooner for the Philadelphia 76ers. Having lost nine of their last 12, the Sixers have been in free fall following Joel Embiid's injury. Sitting in fifth place in the Eastern Conference with a 32-22 record, the Sixers have an excellent opportunity to rest and regroup during the break to try to go on a run in the final stretch of the season.

They have upgraded their roster with the addition of Buddy Hield at the trade deadline and have looked better in the ensuing games. However, none of this matters unless reigning MVP Joel Embiid returns soon.

Embiid, amid another MVP-caliber season, suffered a left knee injury a few weeks ago, having to go through a procedure to address the lateral meniscus issue. He will be out for an extended period but the Sixers haven't ruled him out for the season. In fact, general manager Daryl Morey has expressed optimism about his return to action.

However, the oddsmakers don't seem too optimistic about this possibility, demonstrated by the Sixers' championship odds (+3000) on FanDuel Sportsbook. Philadelphia's odds rank tenth in the league, behind Eastern Conference foes like the Celtics, Bucks, Knicks, and Cavaliers.

2024 NBA Championship Odds

Yes, the Sixers will indeed have a mountain to climb in the playoffs if they continue their free fall in the regular season. Even Embiid might not be able to save them if the Sixers are in the play-in mix by the time he comes back.

Yet, Philadelphia is 26-8 in the games Embiid played this season. He has arguably been the best player in the NBA and the Sixers looked dominant every time he suited up. If he is to return anywhere near his pre-injury level, the entire Eastern Conference will try to avoid Philadelphia in the first round.

It is hard to bet on the Sixers because of the uncertainty surrounding the Embiid situation. But the Sixers are not as long of a shot to make a deep postseason run as their +3000 odds would suggest.

If you agree, head over to FanDuel and claim your sign-up bonus of $150 in bonus bets when you make a $5 winning wager. You can use it to back the Sixers in their title chase afterward.

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Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.