The 76ers, having clinched a spot in the playoffs, are trying to win as many games as possible to get the best seed. They're aware that finishing fifth or sixth would allow them to face the Cavaliers or Magic and avoid the Pistons or Celtics.
But if the Sixers hope to be competitive in the best-of-seven first round, they're probably going to have to shoot free throws better than they've been. The Sixers are tied for 29th -- and last -- in the league with a .710 percentage from the line. With the tempo typically slower and the importance of each possession magnified in the postseason, the Sixers are aware that they could put themselves at a disadvantage if they don't improve in that area. "We know eventually there's going to be some games that come down to making free throws," said guard Willie Green. "We don't want to put ourselves in a situation where we're not making 'em. You've got to make 'em when it comes down to it."
The Sixers have had recent games where they hit .893 and .909 of their foul shots, but have also made .600 and .545 of their attempts from the line over the past 3-1/2 weeks.
"Foul shots are factors in games, particularly playoff games and close games," said head coach Maurice Cheeks. "We've been concentrating on them a lot (in practice). Hopefully, we'll get better at it."
SIXERS 101, PISTONS 94: Philly took advantage of Detroit coach Flip Saunders resting his regulars in the fourth quarter and sitting out Rip Hamilton again to halt a five-game home losing streak against the Pistons.
The Sixers (40-38) stayed sixth in the Eastern Conference, one game in back of the fifth-seeded Wizards and one ahead of the No. 7 Raptors.
Andre Iguodala led the Sixers with 25 points, six assists, five rebounds and five steals. Samuel Dalembert added 20 points and 13 rebounds, while Willie Green chipped in 15 points and Lou Williams contributed 12.
The Sixers held a 43-39 rebounding advantage and had 29 fast-break points after managing a combined 16 in the two previous meetings with the methodical Pistons.
Sixers coach Maurice Cheeks left the bench for the final 10 minutes of the fourth quarter because of flu-like symptoms. Veteran assistant Jim Lynam ran the team in Cheeks' absence.
The Sixers host the Pacers Friday before visiting the Wizards Saturday in a game that could determine who will finish fifth in the conference.
