The Philadelphia 76ers faced a disappointing defeat on Monday against a depleted Denver Nuggets team, which left them with a bitter aftertaste following a promising three-game win streak to close out 2025. After impressive victories against the Memphis Grizzlies, the third-place New York Knicks, and Cooper Flagg’s Dallas Mavericks, the Sixers unexpected loss to a Nuggets roster missing all their stars was a significant letdown.
However, the Sixers now look to bounce back with a favorable matchup against the struggling Washington Wizards on Wednesday. Currently sitting at 14th place in the Eastern Conference, the Wizards enter this game with a 10-25 record and recently secured a solid 120-112 victory over the Orlando Magic. They will be on the second night of a back-to-back, providing the Sixers with an advantage in rest.
Washington will be without sophomore guard Kyshawn George, who has been sidelined due to a hip injury. George has had an impressive season, averaging 15.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, making his absence a significant blow to the Wizards’ performance.
On the brighter side for the Sixers, they could be getting key players back just in time. Joel Embiid is listed as questionable after playing 40 minutes against the Nuggets, and both Kelly Oubre Jr. and Trendon Watford have also been upgraded to questionable. Oubre’s potential return would add much-needed energy, athleticism, and wing defense to the forward rotation.
The Sixers have already defeated the Wizards twice this season, showcasing their capability against the underperforming team. CJ McCollum remains a primary focus for the Sixers’ defense while young talents like Tre Johnson and Bub Carrington could pose challenges as well. Nevertheless, the Wizards have struggled this season, ranking in the bottom four for both offensive and defensive ratings, indicating that their youthful talent has yet to translate into competitive success.
Despite the recent disappointment against the Nuggets, the Sixers can maintain optimism with standout performances from players like Tyrese Maxey, who was named Eastern Conference Player of the Week, and VJ Edgecombe, who has been playing at an elite level. Edgecombe has recently averaged 24.7 points along with notable contributions on defense, making him a player to watch as he faces off against McCollum and the Wizards’ younger guards.
As the Sixers prepare for this crucial game, they will aim to reclaim the energy and execution that propelled them to earlier victories. The matchup provides an opportunity to demonstrate their depth and talent, even if Embiid is sidelined.
The game is set to take place on Wednesday, January 7, at 7:00 p.m. ET at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia. Fans can watch the action on NBC Sports Philadelphia or listen in on 97.5 The Fanatic.