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Sixers-Raptors final score: Five quick thoughts on Philly's 128-94 loss

Five quick observations from the Sixers' third straight loss of the season.

Sixers guard Ben Simmons (left) looks to pass as Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan.
Sixers guard Ben Simmons (left) looks to pass as Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan.Read moreFRANK GUNN / AP

The Embiid effect: Not having Joel Embiid around makes a noticeable difference. The Sixers were without their best rim protector, the player who demands the most attention from the opposing defense, and the guy who gives the team its energy. The Sixers lag and drag without the charismatic big man.

Know your opponent. The 76ers really need to pay better attention to the scouting report. DeMar DeRozan is known for drawing contact and getting to the free throw line, and the Sixers fell right into his trap. DeRozan shot 16 free throws and scored 14 of his game-high 30 points at the charity stripe.

Jah sighting. Jahlil Okafor got his first minutes of the season in the Sixers third game. He showed everything that we saw glimpses of in the preseason, he still has exceptional abilities on the offensive end and he is improving his quickness and effort on the defensive end. Even with all the drama and his diminished role on the team Okafor is determined to prove his worth. He got the nod, starting the second half and he finished with 10 points, six rebounds, and two blocks. He still has plenty to work on, but this was a good start.

Miscues continue. The Sixers are still struggling to keep the turnovers to a minimum. They committed a season-high 20 turnovers that led to more than 20 points points for the Raptors.

Owning the moment. Justin Anderson, who did not play in the Sixers' season opener in Washington, is utilized in most part for his defensive ability. That's the reason Brett Brown went to him during the home opener against Boston, and why he went to him again in Toronto. But Anderson, who is continually working to improve his shooting, took advantage of his minutes Saturday finishing with 12 points in 17 minutes.