There are eight NBA games on the NBA schedule for Monday, including the San Antonio Spurs vs Philadelphia 76ers. It's the first game of the season between the two franchises, with the Sixers winning their previous meeting on Feb. 3, 2023. Let's look at the game' preview, prediction and betting tips.
Philly is on a five-game winning streak since Friday against the Sacramento Kings. They have beaten the Houston Rockets, Denver Nuggets, Orlando Magic and Charlotte Hornets to close the gap with the Boston Celtics and the Milwaukee Bucks.
Meanwhile, the Spurs recently snapped a four-game losing streak to earn their eighth win of the season. They beat the hapless Washington Wizards at the Capitol to get their first win in their ongoing five-game Eastern Conference road trip.
Explore the NBA Draft 2024 with our free NBA Mock Draft Simulator & be the GM of your favorite NBA team.
Also Read: 3 reasons why Mavericks should trade for Kyle Kuzma amid reported interest in former champion
San Antonio Spurs vs Philadelphia 76ers preview, prediction, odds and betting tips
The San Antonio Spurs vs Philadelphia 76ers game is on Monday at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It starts at 7:00 p.m. EST and will be televised on NBA TV, Bally Sports SouthWest-San Antonio and NBC Sports Philadelphia.
Moneyline: Spurs (+560) vs 76ers (-769)
Spread: Spurs +13.5 (-110) vs 76ers -13.5 (-110)
Total (O/U): Spurs -110 (o237.5) vs 76ers -110 (u237.5)
San Antonio Spurs vs Philadelphia 76ers preview
The San Antonio Spurs and Philadelphia 76ers face off for the 104th time since their first meeting on Oct. 22, 1976. The Spurs are ahead 59-44 in the all-time head-to-head matchup. However, the Sixers have dominated recently, with eight wins in their last 10 games.
The two teams split last season's series, with the Spurs stealing one in Philadelphia 114-105 early in the campaign. The Sixers got one back in San Antonio in February, winning 137-125.
San Antonio Spurs vs Philadelphia 76ers starting lineups
The San Antonio Spurs have three players on their injury report, including Zach Collins, who's listed as questionable. Coach Gregg Popovich is expected to stick to his starting lineup featuring Tre Jones, Devin Vassell, Julian Champagnie, Jeremy Sochan and Victor Wembanyama.
Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers are dealing with five injured players, two of whom are listed as out. Coach Nick Nurse could use a starting five consisting of Tyrese Maxey, Kelly Oubre Jr., Tobias Harris, Nicolas Batum and Joel Embiid.
San Antonio Spurs vs Philadelphia 76ers betting tips
Joel Embiid has an over/under of 34.5 points, which is below his season average of 35.0 points per game. He has been on a tear in the last two months, so it's safer to take the risk and bet on him to score at least 35 points against the San Antonio Spurs.
Tyrese Maxey is averaging 26.0 points per game, which is slightly below his over/under of 26.5 points for Monday's matchup. He's favored to score more than 26.5 points. Based on his last five games, it might be best to bet on him to go under.
Victor Wembanyama is favored to score more than 21.5 points against the Philadelphia 76ers. Wembanyama is averaging 19.9 points per game but has scored at least 22 points in seven of his last 10 games. No need to take the risk, so bet on Wemby to score over 21.5 points.
Also Read: "My dawg means business" - Anthony Davis looking sharp in $950 Gucci jacket has Lakers fans buzzing
San Antonio Spurs vs Philadelphia 76ers prediction
The Philadelphia 76ers are the overwhelming favorite. The Sixers are one of the best teams in the NBA, while the Spurs are at the other end of the spectrum.
Nevertheless, the battle between Joel Embiid and Victor Wembanyama is a must-watch. Oddsmakers are predicting a win for the Sixers, with the Spurs to cover the spread and the tota to go over 237.5 points.
76ers Fan? Check out the latest Philadelphia 76ers depth chart, schedule, and roster updates all in one place.