76ers vs. Blazers: Key Talking Points Heading Into Back-to-Back

Coming off a big win in Toronto on Saturday, the Philadelphia 76ers travel home for the second leg of a back-to-back. Next up is a meeting with Scoot Henderson and the Portland Trail Blazers.

As the Sixers get ready for their first home game of the year, here are some key questions heading into the matchup.

How will Sixers look in first back-to-back of the year?

Easily the biggest question for the Sixers heading into this matchup is how they'll look from a physical standpoint. Not only is this the first back-to-back of the year for them, but they had to travel as well. Coming off a game against a physical team in the Toronto Raptors, fatigue will be something to watch.

The back-to-back might end up leaving the Sixers shorthanded. Per the latest injury report, Joel Embiid is listed as questionable against the Blazers due to rest. James Harden also remains out as he continues his ramp-up.

Sixers list Joel Embiid as questionable tonight due to rest

James Harden is once again listed as out vs. Blazers
— Justin Grasso (@JGrasso_) October 29, 2023

Can Tyrese Maxey keep up his hot start to the season?

Through the first two games of the year, Tyrese Maxey has been one of the biggest storylines for the Sixers. The young guard was cited as a breakout candidate this season, and so far he is living up to the hype.

Coming off a strong performance against the Bucks on Thursday, Maxey put together an impressive all-around performance against the Raptors. He played 40 minutes and posted a stat line of 34 points, six rebounds, and seven assists.

Maxey coming out of the gates hot has been great for the Sixers, but one has to wonder how long he can keep up this high level of production. He has a great opportunity to keep the momentum rolling on Sunday against a young and inexperienced Blazers backcourt.

Can the Sixers start getting production from the supporting cast?

Another thing that is worth watching through the Sixers' first few games is the production of the supporting cast. Kelly Oubre Jr. has been stellar off the bench, but outside of him, the team isn't getting much.

On Saturday night, Maxey, Embiid, and Tobias Harris combined for 83 of the team's 117 points. They had 26 points come from the second unit, with 18 of them being Oubre's.

The Sixers have more than enough offensive firepower between Embiid and Maxey. That said, they're going to need more from the supporting cast if they want to compete with the top teams in the league.