Maxey’s 35 Points and Buzzer-Beating Block Carry Sixers Past Warriors
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PHILADELPHIA — Tyrese Maxey continues to rewrite the franchise record book. Entering Thursday’s matchup with Golden State, the fourth-year guard had produced 649 points through 20 games, the third-highest total to start a season in 76ers history, trailing only Allen Iverson’s 681 in 2005-06 and Wilt Chamberlain’s 661 in 1965-66. He also led the NBA in both minutes (40.2) and field-goal attempts (23.1) per game.
Head coach Nick Nurse has encouraged an even heavier workload. “He should shoot even more,” Nurse said after Tuesday’s win over Washington. Maxey obliged Thursday, firing 27 shots, hitting 13, and going 5-for-5 at the line for 35 points. His most dramatic play came at the horn, when he chased down and blocked De’Anthony Melton’s layup to seal a 99-98 victory moments after rookie VJ Edgecombe put Philadelphia ahead with 0.9 seconds left.
“The block was amazing,” center Joel Embiid said. “I almost forgot we made the game-winning layup. That’s how good the block was.”
Embiid on a Minutes Restriction
Embiid, limited to 25 minutes because of ongoing knee management, reached that cap late in the third quarter and did not return. The reigning MVP, who has appeared in only eight games this season, finished with 12 points on 5-of-13 shooting and six rebounds. He will sit out Friday’s game in Milwaukee, the second night of a back-to-back.
“I just can’t sit too long,” Embiid said. “Playing earlier lets me stay in rhythm until they allow me to play more.”
George Rested, Expected Back Friday
Paul George missed the Warriors game for what the club labeled “left knee injury recovery” after logging three straight appearances. Following offseason knee surgery, the forward is trending toward playing Friday, according to team officials.
McCain Finding Form
Second-year guard Jared McCain, slowed by a long injury layoff earlier this fall, has averaged 12.7 points in 25.8 minutes while shooting .453/.419/.833 over his last six outings. “I feel like I’m back to myself,” he said. “Trusting the process got me here.”
Oubre Battles Frustration During Rehab
Kelly Oubre Jr., sidelined since Nov. 14 with a sprained LCL in his left knee, will remain out at least another week. “It sucks,” the wing admitted. “I’m trying to fight the depression that comes with not being able to do your job.”
The 76ers improved to 14-7 with Thursday’s win and face the Bucks on Friday night.
Source: Hoops Rumors
