Sometimes missing key players can bring a team together. The Rockets, losers of seven in a row, have suspended Christian Wood and Kevin Porter Jr. for this game because of the way they acted after a 124-111 loss to the Nuggets this past Saturday in Houston's last game.

Wood and Porter probably are the Rockets' two most talented players. So why get involved with Houston?

Here are the reasons: A huge number, situation, 76ers coaching situation, Philly's current home problems and the belief that the Wood and Porter suspensions might ensure an all-out effort from the rest of the Rockets. 

Philadelphia has won three in a row - all on the road. This is the 76ers' first home game since Dec. 23. That's perhaps a good thing for the 76ers, who are 2-7 in their last nine home contests, 1-8 ATS.

The 76ers return home fat and happy off a satisfying, 110-102, victory against the Nets this past Thursday. The 76ers were without head coach Doc Rivers and assistant coaches Sam Cassell and Brian Adams due to COVID protocols. Rivers isn't expected back today.