NBA: Underperformers and overachievers for Week 25

Overachiever: Philadelphia 76ers

The Philadelphia 76ers are peaking at the right time with just four games left on their regular season schedule. They have won 12 straight games after a 115-108 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday night.

Ben Simmons has utilized numerous weapons during the Sixers’ winning streak, showing off his playmaking ability as well as his ability to score. A lot of critics will say Philadelphia will struggle in the NBA Playoffs due to their lack of experience, but their bench depth could be what carries them.

Life without Joel Embiid is going according to plan after two games so far. The Sixers have been flexing their “depth muscles” of late with their bench play. Marco Belinelli and Richaun Holmes have been two beneficiaries in Embiid’s absence. Belinelli is averaging 18.0 points on 45.5 percent shooting from 3-point range in their last two contests. Holmes is putting up 11.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.0 blocks across the same span.

Their biggest test will come on Friday night when they host LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers, another team that looks ready for the playoffs.