In the second game in a back-to-back against the Charlotte Hornets, the Sixers struggled to survive once again, but Joel Embiid led them to victory. This marks the second time in as many games that the team struggled against the short-handed Hornets. It hasn’t exactly been the most impressive win streak, but this marks a much-needed third consecutive win for Philadelphia.
The team once against was carried by Embiid’s efforts as he again led the team in both points and rebounds with 32 and eight, respectively. Seth Curry had himself a nice bounce-back game to support the Sixers’ star center and provided 23 points and a team-high eight assists.
Tobias Harris rounded out the effort put forth by the starters with a solid performance that included 18 points on 7/13 shooting. Questions were still clear about Harris’ fit with Embiid, but it’s hard to argue against an efficient performance that led to a win.
Unfortunately, however, Tyrese Maxey‘s struggles continued as he had trouble finding his offensive groove. So much so in fact that he only took five shots, fewer than both Danny Green and Matisse Thybulle. Since the return of Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey has looked out of place. That’s not to say that the blame lies on him; moreover, that he hasn’t been properly utilized since Embiid returned.
Embiid thrives when he’s fed the ball in the post and can either operate in the low post or send the ball back out to an open shooter. Maxey’s natural game isn’t completely conducive to that type of scheme, and Doc Rivers isn’t doing enough to get him involved otherwise. The Sixers would be wise to troubleshoot ways to get Maxey’s offense back on track, as the team could certainly use another source of offense.
For now, the team will prepare for their next opponent, the Utah Jazz, who they will face off against back home in Philadelphia. Tip-off is at 7:00 PM, and you can catch the game on NBA TV or NBC Sports Philadelphia. You can also listen live as always at 97.5 FM The Fanatic.
