The Philadelphia 76ers closed out the Toronto Raptors before they got a shot at making history. Coming back from a 3-0 deficit in the NBA playoffs would have been monumental. But alas, the Sixers won 132-97 to advance thanks to great performances from Joel Embiid, James Harden and Tyrese Maxey.

Harden came alive to close out the series, scoring 22 points on 12 shots to go along with 15 assists. He looked much sprier and got involved on offense more but he claims that the Raptors' defense did not make it easy on him. The Sixers' star said that this series was one of the toughest he has ever played in because of the Toronto defense.

The Raptors boasted an impressive collection of defenders to use against Harden and Embiid. The likes of OG Anunoby, Pascal Siakam, Scottie Barnes, Precious Achiuwa, Chris Boucher and Gary Trent Jr. all played a big part in making the Sixers sweat this series out. Nick Nurse's ability to organize them only made them better.

Harden shot barely over 40 percent from the field for this series. Toronto's defense truly did a number on him with their length ad and activity. They were also able to bother Embiid during the NBA playoffs because of their constant double-teams in the post.

In the end, Harden and the Sixers took the series win and now face the Miami Heat. The Raptors have a lot to be proud of, though. They had a very good season and a promising future. They also had to play the end of the series without Fred VanVleet. The Raptors' defense gives them a very good foundation to build on.