Sixers’ Three-Point Struggles Resurface in 126-111 Defeat to Pelicans
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The Philadelphia 76ers surrendered a 126-111 road decision to the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday, faltering early in the fourth quarter and reviving a familiar concern: outside shooting.
What happened
New Orleans pulled away shortly after the final period began, capitalizing on Philadelphia’s inability to match from beyond the arc. The Sixers once again failed to generate consistent three-point production, undermining their preferred spaced-floor offense.
Key players
Guard Tyrese Maxey kept the visitors competitive for three quarters with aggressive drives and creative finishes. However, opposing defenses eventually clogged the paint, daring the Sixers’ supporting cast to shoot from deep. Philadelphia could not make them pay.
Underlying issue
Head coach Nick Nurse’s roster relies heavily on star shot-creators Joel Embiid, Maxey and Paul George to compensate for limited perimeter threats. When any of the trio is slowed or absent, the offensive structure struggles to hold. Team sources described the problem as one of roster fit rather than effort or urgency.
Big picture
The defeat marked another instance in which inadequate spacing prevented Philadelphia from sustaining its attack. Until the club adds dependable shooters—or rediscovers an alternative identity—similar outcomes are likely to persist.
Source: Hoops Wire
