PHILADELPHIA — Fresh off the defeat of the Los Angeles Lakers, the Sixers hit the hardwood on the second night of a back-to-back, this time facing the Sacramento Kings. When these two last met, the Sixers gave up a 15-point lead in a nightmare of a final run, leading to a win for the Kings and one of the most disheartening losses Philadelphia had endured all season.
Now, nearly a month after their embarrassing loss to the Denver Nuggets on Jan. 21, the Sixers have won three in a row and seem to be turning a corner despite the continued absence of Joel Embiid and Paul George.
Meanwhile, the Kings came in winners of 11 of their last 14 and looked ready from the jump to take on their host. In the initial run of the game, Sacramento looked the part of the better of the better-rested team, but Philadelphia would close the lead toward the end of the first.
The Sixers continued to scratch and claw throughout, largely thanks to the performance of their bench, which outscored Sacramento’s bench 40-15. Ricky Council IV and Kyle Lowry particularly stood out, finishing the game as a +28 and +27 on the night respectfully.
Beyond the bench, Tyrese Maxey once again made his case to be named an All-Star reserve, finishing 30 points and eight assists. Maxey has now scored 28 or more points in each of his last 12 games, the longest such streak of his five-year NBA career.
Unfortunately for Maxey, voting for All-Star reserves closed earlier this week. Still, with these types of performances, even if he isn’t selected, he will be able to force many to look back wondering why not.
Between the efforts of their bench and their star, Philadelphia approached this game with ideal balance. Despite looking at times very much like a team in the second of back-to-back games, Nick Nurse’s decision-making with the rotation helped seal a win for the Sixers, which was once a rarity but is becoming ever more consistent, a much-needed development for Philadelphia.
Up next for the Sixers
Philadelphia continues their homestand, welcoming the Denver Nuggets on Friday, Jan. 31. The Sixers surely remember the last time they faced the Nuggets, as their performance is infamous among many disappointing outings this season. Since that game, the Sixers have won four straight and will look to make it a fifth against Jokic and co.
Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m., and you can catch the game on ESPN and NBA Sports Philadelphia, or you can listen live as always at 97.5 FM, the Fanatic.
