Those who were expecting Sixers’ guard Shake Milton‘s play to return to the Earth will have to keep bating their breath, as his incendiary run has continued, helping lead the Philadelphia 76ers to back-to-back away wins at the Orlando Magic. The first game was a little too close for comfort, but the Sixers couldn’t complain too much after grabbing a win on the road despite being down three starters and Matisse Thybulle.
Tonight, with just as shorthanded a roster, the Sixers showcased their depth as Tobias Harris, and P.J. Tucker led a group of usual reserves to a blowout victory in Central Florida. While both Tobi and Head Coach Doc Rivers deserve their flowers for not only keeping Philadelphia’s heads above water during this injury-ridden stretch, it’s Shake Milton’s play that’s garnered the bulk of the credit.
After dropping 24 points, nine rebounds, and ten assists in the first leg of the away-away series against the Magic, Milton followed that performance up with a 29-point, seven-assist, and five-rebound masterclass, shooting a stellar 10-13 from the field. The Magic had no answer for him, as he repeatedly created good looks for himself off of the dribble, both in the paint and from behind the arc.
Shake played a game-high 38 minutes, and the Sixers outscored Orlando by 26 points during his time on the floor. This performance has boosted Philadelphia to 3-2 in their last five outings, raising them to 11-9 on the season.
Also deserving of recognition was Danuel House Jr., who took advantage of his increased opportunity to showcase more of his off-the-dribble game. He made timely drives to the rack, finishing with 19 points on 5-8 shooting and drawing ten trips to the free-throw line. Tobias Harris also continued his steady play as the Sixers’ new de facto first option, pouring in an efficient 25 points on just 14 shots to go along with five dimes.
As a team, Philly played some tremendous defense, holding Orlando to just 71 points through three quarters, including a second quarter in which they allowed only a measly 13 points. It’ll be imperative that they maintain this level of activity and excellence when Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and James Harden make their eventual returns.
Philadelphia will hope to bring the momentum from this 133-103 beatdown of the Magic as they head back home to take on Trae Young and the Atlanta Hawks tomorrow night before heading on an extended three-game road trip.
