Lack of Floor Time Keeps Embiid, Maxey and George From Finding Rhythm
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PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia 76ers continue to search for cohesion among stars Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Paul George after another loss underscored their limited time together. Friday’s 109-102 setback in Chicago marked only the fourth game this season in which all three were available, dropping the team to 0-4 in those outings.
Limited minutes, limited chemistry
“I’d like to see them have 10, or 15, or 20 games together,” head coach Nick Nurse said, noting that a string of injuries has prevented the trio from establishing on-court chemistry.
The coaching staff is still weighing how to balance the offense when Embiid, Maxey and George share the floor. Embiid remains a dominant post scorer, yet Maxey enters the week averaging 30.8 points per game, and extended post possessions reduce the guard’s chances to attack in transition. Early-season success came when Maxey and rookie guard VJ Edgecombe pushed the pace, but that tempo slowed once Embiid’s minutes increased.
“We haven’t had much practice time with all three of us on the floor,” Maxey said after the Chicago defeat. “We missed a lot of shots we know we should make, but we have to figure it out, quick.”
Embiid plays through knee pain
Embiid delivered 31 points and five rebounds in 32 minutes against the Bulls, yet The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that discomfort in his right knee limited his movement. Columnist Keith Pompey wrote that Chicago repeatedly targeted Embiid on defense, a claim Nurse disputed. “I don’t know about that,” the coach said. “I thought he had some really good possessions defensively, but I need to look at the film first.”
Beauchamp joins on two-way deal
The club added depth Friday by signing swingman MarJon Beauchamp to a two-way contract. “Guys are injured,” Beauchamp said. “I feel like I can help with my length, defensive abilities and shooting. I shot well in the G League this year and can bring young energy to the team.”
Oubre nearing return
Kelly Oubre Jr., sidelined since November 14 with a sprained ligament in his left knee, participated extensively in individual drills at Saturday’s practice. According to the team, the forward worked on full-speed changes of direction and stop-start movements, signaling that his return could be imminent.
Source: Hoops Rumors
