Many have written off the Sixers this season after their slow start to the season. Tonight’s win over the Warriors should change some opinions. It was supposed to be Steph Curry‘s big night as he was only 10 threes away from breaking Ray Allen‘s all-time record. The Sixers, though, managed to send him home with double the disappointment as Curry will leave Philadelphia without either a win or the record.
It was a much-needed win for Philadelphia as they bounced back after a horrendous performance against the Utah Jazz. The team was led by the combined efforts of Joel Embiid and Matisse Thybulle, who refused to let the Warriors have their way in Philadelphia.
This is Embiid’s City
Once again, through sheer force and determination, Joel Embiid proved that he is the top dog in Philadelphia. With 26 points and nine rebounds, Embiid led the way offensively and was an absolute anchor on defense. He made sure to remind Golden State that they had no way to stop him.
After the game, Embiid spoke about the effort provided by himself and especially Thybulle. Specifically, Embiid was asked about what it meant to make sure Curry did not set the record in Philadelphia. Embiid responded simply by proclaiming it wasn’t going to happen in Philly, not in his city. Not only is Embiid already one of the most talented players in Sixers history, but he honestly understands this fanbase and knows how to represent this city.
Matisse Thybulle is the Man
Joel Embiid impacted the game in a major way, but the player of the game has to be Matisse Thybulle, who made Steph Curry look about as uncomfortable as he ever has on the court. What was supposed to be a historic night for one of the best players in NBA history turned into a defensive showcase for the Sixers’ stopper.
Thybulle held the greatest shooter in NBA history to a pedestrian 18 points on 6/20 shooting, including 4/13 from three. Very few players have been able to defend Curry like he did tonight. It was truly a special performance defensively that fewer than a handful of players could even be capable of.
Matisse Thybulle, you are the man.
On the Road Again
The Sixers find themselves back on the road once again on Monday as this time to face off against the Memphis Grizzlies, who will be without both star Ja Morant and two-way wing Dillon Brooks, who are both out due to the league’s COVID health and safety protocols. The Grizzlies may be even more shorthanded as Jaren Jackson Jr, Steven Adams, Brandon Clarke, and Ziaire Williams all missed Saturday night’s game against the Houston Rockets.
