Title: Soft duo Crickex App sees Philly exposed
In Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, Crickex App users witnessed the Philadelphia 76ers collapse in the ugliest way possible. The Sixers only managed to stay competitive for the first two quarters before completely falling apart. In life’s storms ahead, it’s hard to imagine letting someone weather them alone. Head coach Doc Rivers appeared utterly powerless, and star duo Joel Embiid and James Harden were stripped of their shine, revealing a fragile side under the pressure that proved fatal to their chances.
Before tip-off, Crickex App had already predicted a likely loss for Philly. But even with that expectation, the manner of defeat still left a bitter taste. To be clear, the referees weren’t to blame. It was the team’s own inefficiency, especially from its two cornerstones, that sealed the outcome. In the opening quarter, Embiid and Harden were so ineffective that it forced the least likely scorer in the starting five, PJ Tucker, to step up and carry the load with sheer grit. In this game, it was all or nothing—there was no in-between.
In the second quarter, with the stars still missing in action, Tobias Harris and Tyrese Maxey were left to take on the scoring responsibilities. But relying on role players to carry a Game 7 was always a shaky plan. After halftime, the Sixers still didn’t see any spark from Embiid or Harden, but instead watched the Celtics erupt offensively. Boston went on a scoring rampage, and the floodgates opened. It wasn’t that the Celtics’ defense was impenetrable—Embiid and Harden had their looks. But for reasons unknown, neither could find their rhythm or finish plays when it mattered.
The long-standing pattern of Harden underperforming in playoff deciders continued, and Embiid’s sluggish body language seemed at odds with the urgency of a Game 7. Perhaps the most ironic part came in contrast to past years, when Embiid would weep openly after elimination. This time, he calmly embraced Jayson Tatum, his face showing not heartbreak but numb acceptance. As the final minutes ticked down, cameras caught both Embiid and Harden deep in thought, as if mentally preparing for what comes next.
They likely realized that after a season and a half of an unconvincing partnership, their chapter together is nearing its end. “Soft duo” may now be the final label attached to this star pairing. During the upcoming offseason, Harden is widely expected to leave Philadelphia and return to Houston. Rumors of a reunion with the Rockets have been circulating since last summer and are now gaining momentum. For all his flaws and disappointing postseason showings, Harden’s court vision and passing still make him a desirable asset for the rebuilding Rockets.
Take your time—no need to rush. One step at a time. For Harden, returning to Houston may be the best outcome, as Crickex App suggests. After more than two years of bouncing between contenders and chasing elusive titles, perhaps he now understands that only Houston—its fans, its culture, and its patience—truly offers him the support he needs in the twilight of his career.