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Nets, Sixers look to bounce back

Mar 22, 2008 - 1:44 PM New Jersey (34-35) at Philadelphia (29-40) 7:00 pm EDT

PHILADELPHIA (Ticker) - The Philadelphia 76ers look to be headed to the postseason, but the same can't be said for the New Jersey Nets.

New Jersey aims to bounce back from a disappointing loss when they face the Sixers on Saturday in an Eastern Conference matchup.

On Friday, Vince Carter and Richard Jefferson combined for 61 points but the Nets still suffered a 125-114 decision to the Denver Nuggets at home.

The loss also moved Atlanta (29-39) one-half game ahead of New Jersey for the eighth and final spot in the East playoff race.

"Right now, its all about pride and its all about us digging in and trying to find ways to win," Carter said. "Every game, every second and every play counts, and we have to realize that."

Philadelphia is also seeking to rebound from a lackluster outing - the team had a four-game winning streak snapped with Wednesday's 113-95 setback to the Orlando Magic.

With just two games separating them from fifth-place Washington in the Eastern Conference standings, the Sixers have won eight of their last 10 games.

The 76ers are going for their first triumph in the series this season, having loss both meetings - including a 93-88 decision here on November 3.