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The Sixers are executing what Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer calls a “tanking masterclass” as they maneuver to retain their top-six protected 2025 first-round pick.

With just a few games left in the season, Philadelphia is doing everything possible to secure a bottom-six finish in the standings.

Following Brooklyn’s win over Dallas on Monday, the gap between the Sixers and Nets widened to 1.5 games, strengthening Philadelphia’s position to end the season with the NBA’s fifth-worst record.

If they maintain this spot, they’ll have a 64% chance of keeping their protected first-rounder, increasing their odds of landing a high draft pick to aid their future roster-building efforts.

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