Embiid says knee management plan paying off after 39-point outing against Pacers
SLUG: embiid-feeling-healthy-after-39-point-performance-pacers
Joel Embiid erupted for 39 points Friday night as the Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Indiana Pacers by 10, then reported that his recent knee maintenance program has him “feeling good” and able to stay on the court consistently.
“I’ve been able to do the same thing over and over again this week and not have to take a break. That’s the big thing,” the former MVP said after the home win.
Head coach Nick Nurse attributed the performance to steady practice time, individual workouts and Embiid’s renewed willingness to attack off the dribble. “I’ve always said that he’s best when he’s driving,” Nurse noted. “The 39 points were great, but they came through a lot of different schemes.”
Embiid, who has dealt with knee soreness, is currently playing one game and then taking two days off before returning to the floor. The center said that spacing has allowed him to remain productive without setbacks.
Philadelphia saw encouraging signs elsewhere as well. Nurse has increasingly used Paul George as a point forward; the veteran has handed out 13 assists over the last three contests while growing more comfortable initiating the offense. “It’s about trusting my body and gaining confidence on the floor,” George said.
The Sixers hope the combination of Embiid’s health plan and the new ball-handling wrinkle will help them build momentum as the season progresses.
Source: Hoops Wire
