By Lesley Van Arsdall

Ok, so the 76ers lost five of their last eight games before heading to the playoffs, however these were all close games.

Well… maybe not the 17 point loss to Boston. But, the other four games were close (really close), all thanks to the great play from the younger players, namely Evan Turner, Jodie Meeks and Jrue Holiday (all of whom will be playing in their first playoff game).

When they played the Knicks Wednesday night they were down as much as 19 points. Despite the loss… they never gave up.

Considering they’re not flooded with superstars, Coach Collins’ has the Sixers back in the playoffs. Something that’s hard to believe considering the 3-13 start to the season.

Heading into the playoffs this is probably not where the team wants to be though. There will be no rest for the weary and they are still missing their third leading scorer, Lou Williams. Still, they are going to the playoffs and that’s what matters and for the young players on the team it’s a unbelievable learning experience.