This series took a dramatic turn before even getting underway with the announcement that the 76ers’ Joel Embiid would be out indefinitely. It has since been reported that he could return for Games 3 or 4. But we know Embiid will miss Monday’s opener in Miami.

Luckily for Philadelphia, they still have James Harden, not to mention Tyrese Maxey, who poured in 38 points the last time the Sixers were in a series opener. In both the first and last game of the Toronto series, the team topped 130 points. They are 4-2 Over the next game, the previous six times they scored 130+ in a game. They are also 8-2 Over when playing with three or more days rest.

The loss of Embiid is significant, but I still believe the Sixers will score. Also, this is a low total for Game 1. Lower than the closing number for any game in the Philly-Toronto series or the Miami-Atlanta series.

Jimmy Butler will be back for the Heat while Tyler Herro will also play. Kyle Lowry remains out. Miami had scored 110 or more in the first four games of the Atlanta series, before winning 97-94 in Game 5 to close things out.

I look at this Game 1 and think both teams can score 105 points rather easily. That is all we need. When the Sixers beat the Heat 113-106 on March 21st, not only did they not have Embiid, but Harden was also out. Go with the OVER.