Following an emphatic win on the road no more than 24 hours earlier, the Philadelphia 76ers were able to stay on course and knock off a feisty Pelicans squad 116-109.
Last night’s contest against the Pels’ was the definition of a “trap game”. The 76ers had just come off an emotional war up in Boston, had to travel directly afterwards, and were in the midst of a double-header. Despite all this, plus a late surge from the young New Orleans squad, the Sixers were able to prevail, improving their home record to a league-best 14-0.
The Big Three
The combination of Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, and Tobias Harris were particularly dominant in last night’s affair. The trio combined for an absurd 79 points on 47% shooting. Both Simmons and Embiid recorded double-doubles as well, with Jojo claiming 11 rebounds and Ben dropping 11 assists.
JJ Redick’s Return
After a two year stint in Philly, JJ Redick chose to leave this past offseason, securing a 2 year/$26.5 million dollar contract with the Pelicans. Last night was Redick’s first game back at the Wells Fargo Center. He received a thank you package and a standing ovation. He knocked in three triples en route to a 19 point performance. When asked about the current 76ers squad prior to the game he responded saying, “It’s weird to say this but I’m enjoying their success, I really am” (Rich Hoffmann).
Sixers’ Shooting
What was a concern early on, has now turned into quite the strength for the 76ers. They shot 7/20 from three on the night, receiving contributions from a variety of different players. They currently sit fifth in the entire NBA in terms of team 3P% (37.0%).
Hot Start
The 76ers improved to 20-7 following last night’s victory and are (as previously mentioned) 14-0 at home. This makes for the best start to an NBA season by Philly since way back in 1984. They now host the third-best record in the league (behind the Lakers and Bucks). As of now, this current Sixers squad is definitely living up to the lofty expectations that were set for them coming into 2019/2020.
The Sixers get one day off before heading back up north, this time to Brooklyn, NY. They’ll face off against the 13-11 Kyrie-led Nets at 6:00PM ET, in the Barclays Center. This rematch from last year’s playoffs will be yet another early test for Brett Brown and the 76ers.
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
