20/11/2022
Our Philadelphia 76ers have been through a HECTIC last 48 hours, to say the least — let’s delve into what surfaced these last two days.
• Statement victory vs Bucks, gritty loss to Timberwolves
The undermanned Sixers snagged a statement win against Giannis Antetokounmpo & the Milwaukee Bucks, behind Joel Embiid’s 32 points, 11 rebounds, 8 assists and 3 blocks, in combination with Tyrese Maxey’s 24 points (which he had in the first half alone). Niang contributed 17 points while Shake Milton had 15. Why was this such an impressive victory? Well, Philly was already down James Harden, but their star guard Tyrese Maxey exited in the first half, and did not return. Not to mention the absence of Tobias Harris, taking away that much more shot creation. Despite the injury bug, the Sixers were able to effectively limit Giannis’ scoring ability in clutch time by forcing him to the free throw line. Simultaneously, Joel was able to efficiently hit his shots and make plays for his teammates, a recipe for success. This cohesiveness was not present in Saturday night’s loss against the Timberwolves, however.
76ers were sloppy in all aspects of the game, but were in striking distance all the way through thanks to their own fight & Minnesota’s sloppiness. Likely the best loss I’ve watched, considering the absence of several key players. Most notable takeaway was Shake’s eye-opening 27 points.
• Maxey OUT 3-4 weeks with fractured foot
In Friday night’s win against the Bucks, Tyrese Maxey contributed 24 points in the first half alone, before he suffered an injury and left the game. An MRI on Saturday revealed that Rese had a small fracture in his foot which will keep him out for an extended period of time. Detrimental blow to a backcourt that’s already missing James Harden.
• Harris, Thybulle brought into trade talks
Teams have expressed interest in Sixers’ Tobias Harris & Matisse Thybulle, players that have been subject to these talks within the last year. Thybulle is on the last year of his deal, and Harris will be an expiring contract next season — expect their names to emerge more as we approach the trade deadline.
