Magic Johnson Reveals Sixers’ X-Factor For Title Run

Philadelphia 76ers, NBA News, Joel Embiid
NBA Analysis Network

NBA legend Magic Johnson knows better than almost anyone what it takes to win an NBA title, and he recently revealed a surprising X-factor for the Philadelphia 76ers.

The 76ers acquired superstar James Harden in the middle of the season and instantly joined the ranks of the league’s top contenders. Pairing Harden with Embiid, the 76ers have arguably the best 1-2 punch in the NBA.

Johnson had a different player in mind as the team’s X-factor, however.

“Until Tobias Harris becomes a factor on the offensive end, I’m concerned,” Johnson said. “Because when you think about it, they need him to take the pressure off of Embiid – and that takes the ball out of James [Harden]’s hands. My problem with the Sixers is, [Harden]’s got it too much. A team can load up on the Sixers because of that.”

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Magic Johnson clearly asserts that though Harden and Embiid are the Sixers’ premiere players, winning a title requires more than star power.

“I will say this:” Johnson continued, “I like the talent, but Tobias Harris has got to be a key.”

Harris has stepped up thus far in the playoffs. The 76ers took a 3-0 series lead on the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night, and thus far Harris is averaging 19 points per game on 59% shooting.

LATEST NBA NEWS: How Far Can Joel Embiid Take Sixers In 2022 NBA Playoffs?

A further good sign for Philadelphia has been the play of young guard Tyrese Maxey. Maxey is averaging 26.7 points per game thus far in the series, shooting a lights-out 47% from three.

If Magic Johnson is correct that Harris will be the X-factor for the Philadelphia 76ers this year’s playoffs, they appear to be on the right track. Behind elite play from Embiid, Harden, Harris, and Maxey the 76ers will look to sweep their first-round series on Saturday in Toronto, taking the first step toward a potential NBA title.

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