In Philadelphia, Joel Embiid’s stellar performance, comprising 38 points and 14 rebounds, propelled the 76ers to a 125-114 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night. Overcoming a late-game injury scare, Embiid showcased resilience as he sustained a left leg injury during a drive with just over 4 1/2 minutes remaining. Despite the apparent discomfort, he remained in the game, contributing six crucial points in the final moments.
Tyrese Maxey emerged as a significant contributor for the Sixers, adding 30 points, including a pivotal 3-pointer with 1:20 left in a decisive 13-0 run. This surge proved instrumental in breaking open a closely contested game, marking the Sixers’ second consecutive win and improving their record to 14-7.
De’Andre Hunter led the Hawks in scoring with 24 points, complemented by Bogdan Bogdanovic and Dejounte Murray, who each contributed 20 points. Notably absent from the Hawks’ lineup was Trae Young, sidelined due to illness, while Jalen Johnson continued to miss games due to a left wrist fracture.
Hawks coach Quin Snyder acknowledged the adversity faced by his team, emphasizing the competitive spirit displayed in the absence of key players. Despite the game’s conclusion not reflecting their efforts, Snyder commended the team’s resilience and contributions from the bench.
Maxey, whose aggressive play was encouraged by Embiid, played a pivotal role during crucial stretches, especially in the fourth quarter when Embiid took a break. Maxey’s scoring outburst, including 16 points in the final quarter, showcased the team’s depth and ability to capitalize on opportunities.
The Hawks seized a 68-62 halftime lead, propelled by a dominant second quarter where Bogdanovic and Hunter combined for 26 points. However, the Sixers, led by Maxey and De’Anthony Melton, mounted a comeback in the second half, ultimately securing the victory.
Tobias Harris and Melton contributed 13 and 15 points, respectively, for the Sixers. On the Hawks’ side, Saddiq Bey posted 16 points, while Clint Capela contributed 15 points and grabbed a game-high 16 rebounds.
Looking ahead, the Hawks will return home to face Denver on Monday night, while the 76ers will host Washington on the same evening. The victory underscored the 76ers’ ability to overcome challenges and showcased the emergence of Maxey as a key player alongside the dominant presence of Joel Embiid.
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