The Philadelphia 76ers, growing ever more desperate for their third win of the season, made their way to Memphis Wednesday night for a matchup against the Grizzlies. Following a team meeting after their Monday night loss to the Heat, the Sixers had much to atone for in this matchup, none more so than the team’s biggest star, Joel Embiid.
Having been challenged by Tyrese Maxey in the aforementioned meeting, Joel Embiid rose to the challenge in this game. While not quite back in MVP form, finishing the night with 35 points and 11 rebounds is an impressive step closer considering how poorly he has played this season.
As Embiid continued to work himself back into shape, Tyrese Maxey made his long awaited return to the court after suffering through a hamstring injury that cause him to miss six games. In his return, Maxey was held to a tight 20 minute restriction in this game. Those 20 minutes consisted of plenty of rust, hopefully being shed, as Maxey would make just three of his thirteen shots on the night, missing all six of his attempts from deep.
Despite Maxey’s struggles, that’s two pieces of good news in Embiid’s bounce-back game and Maxey’s return to the court. What could go wrong?
Well, early in the second half, Paul George suffered a lower body injury while contesting for a rebound, making his way to the locker room shortly thereafter. George would miss the rest of the game and word would later come down that he had hyperextended his left knee.
If that sounds familiar, it should, as that it exactly what led to the bone bruise that caused George to miss the begining of the season. Whether this is a re-injury, the injury was not truly healed, or just a precaution, it’s far from a welcome sign for the Sixers.
Sandwiching the bad with the good, it was another 20 point performance by rookie Jared McCain tonight who extended his streak to six games. McCain also continued his perfect streak from the line, going five for five, setting a record for the most consecutive free throws to begin a career in NBA history.
The impressive rookie campaign continues, as does the Sixers’ losing steak unfortunately.
A poor second quarter set the Sixers back by double digits against the Grizzlies, allowing them to finish the half up 10. Philadelphia would fight impressively well come the fourth quarter, but would ultimately fall short of a complete comeback.
Up next for the Sixers
The Sixers will next face the Brooklyn Nets on Friday, hosting them in Philly for another Emirates NBA Cup matchup. If they lose to the Nets, well…what more can be said.
Tip off is a 7 p.m. and you can catch the game on NBC Sports Philadelphia, or listen live as always at 97.5 FM The Fanatic.
