The Sixers (16-52) will take on the New York Knicks (14-54) Friday at the Wells Fargo Center (7 p.m./CSN) in a crucial matchup for draft lottery positioning.
Let’s take a closer look at the matchup:
1. Battle for the basement
The Sixers were able to lock down on defense for a 94-83 win over the Detroit Pistons in their last game. However, it’s their pile of losses that makes Friday night’s matchup interesting.
The Sixers enter Friday two games ahead of the Knicks in the standings. That’s after the Knicks suffered an overtime loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday to take over sole possession of the NBA’s worst record.
Friday’s game could have more than bragging rights between division rivals on the line, as the amount of potential ping-pong balls in the summer’s draft lottery could also be at stake.
And while the players on the court won’t be worried about that scenario, it’s worth noting that what would appear to be a rather meaningless March game could have a big impact on the two rebuilding franchises.
2. Center of attention
Nerlens Noel left Wednesday's game after suffering a right foot contusion on an alley-oop attempt. The Sixers weren't overly concerned by the injury, but it is unclear if the rookie big man will play against the Knicks.
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If Noel can't suit up, the Sixers will be missing a lot of production in the post. Noel has taken his game to a new level since the All-Star break, particularly in March, when he's averaged 12.6 points and 10.5 rebounds on 48.1 percent shooting.
In his lone game against the Knicks this season, Noel put up 17 points and 12 boards.
If Noel sits out, look for Henry Sims to step into the starting lineup. Hey, maybe Thomas Robinson can finally get more than 15 minutes of playing time.
3. Point of emphasis
The Sixers have tried several options at point guard since Michael Carter-Williams was shipped away at the trade deadline.
Ish Smith isn't the long-term solution at the position, but he's certainly the best the Sixers have had since dealing MCW to the Bucks.
Smith made his first start since joining the Sixers in Wednesday's win over the Pistons. He scored 15 points on 6 of 12 shooting to go along with eight assists and three steals.
Smith has now scored in double digits in four of the past five games. He is averaging 11.3 points, 5.8 assists and 2.5 rebounds in 24.2 minutes a night for the Sixers.
The journeyman PG knows about auditioning -- this is Smith's eighth team in five seasons -- and this is his best showing yet.
4. Injuries
Cleanthony Early (ankle) is day to day for the Knicks.
Jose Calderon (Achilles) is out for Friday's game.
Carmelo Anthony (knee) is out indefinitely.
Noel (foot) is questionable for the Sixers.
Joel Embiid (foot) and Tony Wroten (knee) are out indefinitely.
5. This and that
• The Sixers have lost four straight to the Knicks and 12 of the last 15.
• Former Sixer Alexey Shved is averaging 14.0 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.5 assists in 13 games with the Knicks.
• The Sixers have won three of their last five games at home.
• St. Joe's alum Langston Galloway had 11 points, seven rebounds, four assists and two steals in the Knicks' 98-91 win over the Sixers back on Jan. 21.