Joel Embiid has finally gotten off the schneid, scoring his first dunk of the season in a thrilling win for the Philadelphia 76ers over the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. The 7-footer's slam came after the Sixers had sealed the game, and he quipped that it was an "easy one" despite calling it out as the team's first dunk of the year.
Despite Embiid's lighthearted comments, his impact on the court is undeniable. He led all scorers with 36 points, including a remarkable six three-pointers from beyond the arc. However, what was truly impressive was not Embiid's individual performance but the collective effort of the entire team.
One player who has been consistently excellent throughout the season is VJ Edgecombe, a 20-year-old rookie guard who has taken on an increasingly important role in the lineup. He made four of nine three-point attempts and scored all 10 of his points in the first half, including a highlight-reel block that led to a slam.
Edgecombe's impressive performance was just the latest in a string of standout games from the young gun, who has proven himself to be a two-way threat on both ends of the court. Coach Nick Nurse praised Edgecombe for his "composure" and noted that he plays like a 10-year veteran due to his steady play.
The real story, however, is Tyrese Maxey's incredible season. The sixth-year guard has consistently dominated games with his scoring prowess, and Saturday was no exception. He led all scorers with 36 points on just 22 shots from the field, including six three-pointers. When asked about his individual performance, Maxey deflected attention to his teammates, saying that knowing what plays to run is crucial in a team game.
The win marked the third road victory for the Sixers over the Knicks in as many weeks, and it was clear that continuity has been a key factor in their success. As Paul George noted, "we just feel better as a unit" after last year's struggles with injuries and new players.
With Embiid, Maxey, and Edgecombe leading the charge, the 76ers are looking stronger than ever. They have established a rhythm that is translating on the court, and it's clear that they're starting to enjoy the game. As George said, "it's super rewarding" to see the team gel after last year's struggles.
As for what's next, coach Nurse wants Edgecombe to score more in transition, noting that his speed and body control make him a threat on finishes. Maxey is always focused on delivering, saying that it's all about finding ways to re-spark the offense when they go through lulls.
One thing is certain โ with this lineup, continuity has become the key factor in their success.
Despite Embiid's lighthearted comments, his impact on the court is undeniable. He led all scorers with 36 points, including a remarkable six three-pointers from beyond the arc. However, what was truly impressive was not Embiid's individual performance but the collective effort of the entire team.
One player who has been consistently excellent throughout the season is VJ Edgecombe, a 20-year-old rookie guard who has taken on an increasingly important role in the lineup. He made four of nine three-point attempts and scored all 10 of his points in the first half, including a highlight-reel block that led to a slam.
Edgecombe's impressive performance was just the latest in a string of standout games from the young gun, who has proven himself to be a two-way threat on both ends of the court. Coach Nick Nurse praised Edgecombe for his "composure" and noted that he plays like a 10-year veteran due to his steady play.
The real story, however, is Tyrese Maxey's incredible season. The sixth-year guard has consistently dominated games with his scoring prowess, and Saturday was no exception. He led all scorers with 36 points on just 22 shots from the field, including six three-pointers. When asked about his individual performance, Maxey deflected attention to his teammates, saying that knowing what plays to run is crucial in a team game.
The win marked the third road victory for the Sixers over the Knicks in as many weeks, and it was clear that continuity has been a key factor in their success. As Paul George noted, "we just feel better as a unit" after last year's struggles with injuries and new players.
With Embiid, Maxey, and Edgecombe leading the charge, the 76ers are looking stronger than ever. They have established a rhythm that is translating on the court, and it's clear that they're starting to enjoy the game. As George said, "it's super rewarding" to see the team gel after last year's struggles.
As for what's next, coach Nurse wants Edgecombe to score more in transition, noting that his speed and body control make him a threat on finishes. Maxey is always focused on delivering, saying that it's all about finding ways to re-spark the offense when they go through lulls.
One thing is certain โ with this lineup, continuity has become the key factor in their success.