While the Pistons have known for quite some time that they would be the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference, the Sixers don't have that luxury as they fight for a better seeding.

For now, at least, there is no rest for the Sixers, who entered last night's game against the Pistons with a chance to finish anywhere from fourth to eighth. There is no rest for their regulars.

That means that Andre Iguodala, who entered last night averaging 39.6 minutes per game, will continue to carry a heavy load.

"I never had a chance to rest, so I don't know how it feels," Iguodala said before the game. "It can be good and bad. Those guys [on the Pistons] are still playing and can keep a rhythm and still get rested at the same time."

Now in his fourth season, Iguodala is in line to start every game for the third time in his career. He has missed only six games in his career, all last season because of a back injury.

Iguodala said he would not mind if the Sixers' playoff fate was decided before Wednesday's regular-season finale against Charlotte so maybe he could get a little rest.

"That would help a little bit, knowing where we are going," he said. "But it keeps you on your toes knowing you have to go out every night and play hard."

No Hamilton

Hamilton was unsuccessful in persuading Saunders to let him play.

"I tried to convince him to play me, but the trainer felt that it was best if I got another day of practice," Hamilton said.

Before the game, the Coatesville native was scrambling to fill ticket requests.

"I've gotten 40, and I need some more," he said.

Hamilton always enjoys coming back to Philadelphia. He said it was painful not to play.

"It's hard," he said. "It's really hard."

Unwelcome break

"I wasn't thrilled with having all those days off," Cheeks said before the game. "I like to go right back and play. Maybe not the next night, but three days off is a long time in between games."

- Marc Narducci