By Tom Brennan
The Sixers clinched the top seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs last night and will undoubtedly rest their starters in tomorrow’s finale against the Magic.
And they also positioned themselves on the opposite side of the bracket from the Nets and Bucks.
It’s the first time the Sixers have been the top seed since 2001, when Allen Iverson led them throughout the playoffs to the NBA Finals against the Lakers.
Who Philly plays in the first round will be determined through the play-in, with the Celtics, Hornets, Pacers and Wizards all in play for the 8-seed.
Taking the top seed is a boost, but not necessarily an accomplishment for the Sixers, with coach Doc Rivers downplaying its importance earlier in the week.
“I don’t look at the No. 1 seed as being this great achievement,” Rivers said. “I just think it’s great to have because of home-court [advantage]. The achievement is winning [the championship].”
