The 76ers (7-4) will look to rebound Friday in Oklahoma City, visiting the Thunder (4-7) for the first and only time in the regular season.
The matchup presents an opportunity for the Sixers to get back on track following Wednesday's loss in Orlando.
It’s also a homecoming, at least for a couple players on the roster.
He used to attend Thunder games as a kid, whether with his Dad or members of his church.
“It’s cool. It’s surreal,” Richardson said Friday, after spending time at his mom’s house on Thursday night. “Being able to come back is always fun.”
In his early days as a Sixer, Richardson has proven himself as a steadfast presence on both sides of the floor. The former Tennessee Volunteer is averaging 14.2 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game.
Shake Milton will also be close to home during Friday’s duel. The Owasso, Oklahoma native returned to the floor Wednesday after missing seven games (knee).
Ben Simmons commended Milton’s determination and improvement since joining the 76ers full time. Milton played on a two-way deal last season.
In his first four regular season games, Milton averaged 7.3 points and shot 41.2% from the field.
“[He’s a] silent assassin,” Simmons said. “He doesn’t talk too much, but he gets it done. He works hard.”
Friday’s contest tips at 8:00 p.m. ET.
Opponent Outlook:
Oklahoma City has dropped two straight heading into Friday’s meeting. The biggest change to the Thunder roster is the absence of eight-time All-Star Russell Westbrook, and the addition of nine-time All Star point man Chris Paul (the Thunder also traded Paul George over the summer). In his early days in OKC, Paul has averaged 15.3 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.
Since joining the Thunder as part of the George trade to the LA Clippers, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has shone early as the team’s leading scorer (20.1 ppg). Steven Adams returns as the Thunder’s leading rebounder, averaging 9.6 boards per game in his seventh NBA season.
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