PHILADELPHIA — As the city of Philadelphia awaits the Eagles’ upcoming Super Bowl appearance, the Sixers have taken a bit of a back seat, coming off of two impressive wins against higher seeded teams in the Eastern Conference.
As a treat to the Philly faithful who came to see the Sixers despite the absence of Joel Embiid, Paul George, and many more, Philadelphia hosted a convocation — that’s the proper group name, I looked it up — of Eagles to ring the bell ahead of this matchup.
The energy in the area spiked and rarely lessened through the night as the Sixers held their own, and then later dominated the Lakers who came into the night winning four straight.
The first quarter was truly unique as Tyrese Maxey and Guerschon Yabusele combined for all 25 of the Sixers’ points. Unfortunately for Los Angeles, star Anthony Davis would only play 10 minutes before suffering an abdominal muscle strain. Philadelphia well knows the loss of a star big man, and did not waster any opportunity showing the Lakers what they’ve been dealing with in Philadelphia most of the season.
Philadelphia exploded for 48 points in the second quarter and the game remained in hand from there thanks to the impressive efforts of Tyrese Maxey (43 points), Kelly Oubre (20 points, eight rebounds, five assists), Guerschon Yabusele (14 points, four steals), Ricky Council IV (16 points, seven rebounds).
Up next for the Sixers
The Sixers are right back at it tomorrow night as they welcome the Sacramento Kings into town. Winners of 11 of their last 14, including an incredible comeback against the Sixers, the Kings are hot but also at the center of the rumor mill.
On Tuesday night, ESPN’s Shams Charania announced that the Sacramento Kings are expected to “open up trade talks” regarding De’Aaron Fox before the NBA trade deadline. It’s premature to suggest that this news will cause any disruption in the team’s groove, but they’re certainly aware of it.
Tip off is set for 7:30 p.m. and you can catch the game on NBC Sports Philadelphia, or listen live as always at 97.5 FM, the Fanatic.
