TITLE: Lowry’s Sideline Return Highlights Sixers’ Visit to Toronto; Oubre Finds Rhythm, Barlow Starts, Embiid Eyes All-Star Bid
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Kyle Lowry never left the bench Sunday night in what could be his final game in Toronto, but the 20-year veteran still played a key role for the Philadelphia 76ers. Now functioning as a hybrid player-coach, the former Raptors star acted as a conduit between head coach Nick Nurse and his teammates while the Sixers beat his old club. Lowry has logged just 43 minutes across five appearances this season.
Lowry’s mentoring focus
“Sometimes I try to talk to those guys as a coach,” Lowry said, referring mainly to young guards Tyrese Maxey and rookie VJ Edgecombe. “I’m not on the court, so I can’t yell at them, but I can tell them what I see.” He added that past experiences alongside Fred VanVleet inspired him to guide Philadelphia’s emerging backcourt and fellow rookie Jared McCain.
Oubre shakes off rust
Kelly Oubre Jr., limited to one field goal in his first two games after a lengthy injury absence, scored 13 points on 5-for-10 shooting Sunday. The swingman also produced season bests of four steals and three blocks. “I think I could be better,” Oubre said. “Just watching film and showing up every day to improve is all I can do, but it definitely felt good to get some run.”
Barlow starts amid George scratch
Oubre and second-year forward Dominick Barlow moved into the starting lineup when Paul George was ruled out late with left knee soreness. Nurse may soon face a lineup decision, as some within the organization believe the team functions better with Barlow starting; that alignment allows George to stay on the perimeter defensively instead of sliding to power forward.
Embiid makes All-Star case
Joel Embiid, sidelined Sunday for left knee injury management and left groin soreness, has appeared in 19 of Philadelphia’s 37 games but leads Eastern Conference centers at 23.5 points per game. “Am I going to make it? I think I should,” he said Friday, urging media members to highlight his production despite limited availability.
Source: Hoops Rumors
