| Updates : 19/04/03 : > 76ers To Face Raptors, 1st Round |
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The 76ers may be slightly over-reliant on SG Allen Iverson but GM Matt Barnes will be glad PG Eric Snow has recovered from his injury in time for the playoffs. Snow has been a key member to the side this season providing 6.9APG and averaging over 8PPG and he has been key in helping Iverson flower again. 'The Answer' himself averaged 23.8PPG, while Keith Van Horn has done a good job since his summer trade from the Nets, he has 17.7PPG and 8.8APG. Derrick Coleman and Kenny Thomas are the final starters, who have both given a lot of effort and put up useful numbers for the 76ers, who do lack a rebounder. Todd MacCulloch has returned from injury and will no doubt get more minutes as the players go on. He will be useful off the bench add will add some rebounding power to a side that needs it. McKie and Skinner will also be useful off the bench.
Unlike the 76ers, the Raptors have very good rebounding power, with Antonio Davis and Kwame Brown sharing the 4 and 5 spots and both averaging over 10PPG and over 8RPG. Vince Carter's battle with Iverson could be the crucial one, as with Iverson, Carter's Raptors are heavily reliant on his performance and they will need him to keep up his 23.5PPG. More will be needed from Mo Peterson and Veshon Lenard, who have had unproductive seasons. It is the PG position where the Raptors will struggle though. Up against a skilfull and brainy PG in the experienced Eric Snow, the Raptors have the inexperienced Rafer Alston, better known for his streetball prowess running the point. Any mistakes by him could be crucial and Lindsey Hunter in reserve does not have the talent to compete with Snow. The Raptors could cause the upset but Alston will have to come big.
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