Sixers-Blazers takeaways: Lonnie Walker IV finds groove, lineup changes continue

The 76ers’ starting lineup changes like a revolving door. Lonnie Walker IV had his best game as a Sixer. And the Sixers were doomed by their second-half defense. Those three things stood out in Monday’s 119-102 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers at the Wells Fargo Center.

Another starting lineup

The Sixers unveiled their 37th starting lineup of the season as Justin Edwards, Guerschon Yabusele, Andre Drummond, Quentin Grimes, and Tyrese Maxey got the start.

They went with this lineup because Joel Embiid (left knee swelling) is out for the season and Paul George (left groin soreness) and Kelly Oubre Jr. (illness) missed the game.

Walker’s best game

Walker finally found his rhythm on Monday night, scoring 13 points on 4-for-8 shooting — including going 3 of 6 on three-pointers — in 28 minutes, 12 seconds off the bench. He added three rebounds, two assists, two steals, and two blocks.

This comes after he averaged 2.5 points on 20% shooting — including hitting 2 of 13 on three-pointers — while playing 12.5 minutes in his first four games after signing with the Sixers on Feb. 21.

Second-half defensive woes

The Sixers struggled to make defensive stops after intermission. And that led to their loss on Monday night. The Blazers shot 54.3% from the field in the second half.

Portland made 13 of 25 shots (52%) while outscoring the Sixers, 35-20, in the third quarter. Then the Blazers shot 12-for-21 (57.1%) in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Sixers 28-21 in the final frame.