Healthy Core Sparks 76ers; Suns Anticipate Grayson Allen’s Return; Kings Suffer New Setbacks
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The Philadelphia 76ers are finally fielding a consistent lineup, and the results show it. After a three-game road winning streak, head coach Nick Nurse noted that he has used the same starters—Joel Embiid, Paul George, Tyrese Maxey, rookie VJ Edgecombe, and Paul George—for all three victories. “For three games, we have started the same five people,” Nurse said.
76ers
Embiid is rounding back into form. In Saturday’s win at Madison Square Garden, the reigning MVP recorded 26 points, 10 rebounds and five assists, capping the night with his first dunk of the season. “I was so happy,” Maxey said of the slam, adding that Embiid is now asking for lobs. Edgecombe echoed the sentiment, calling it “great” to see Embiid, Maxey and George healthy and on the court together.
Suns
Phoenix could regain a key contributor as soon as the next game. Grayson Allen, sidelined for nine straight contests with a right knee injury, completed full five-on-five work Saturday. Head coach Jordan Ott said the guard is “good to go” and may face Houston. Ott added that Jalen Green is nearing live contact as he rehabs a hamstring strain.
Kings
Sacramento’s injury woes continued Sunday with a fifth consecutive loss and two more players headed to the training room. Keegan Murray, recently back from a calf strain, exited early after injuring his left ankle, while Keon Ellis lasted only five minutes before hurting his left thumb. “It’s not even for me to speculate,” interim coach Doug Christie said when asked about timelines. Ellis has surfaced in trade discussions; Murray remains a cornerstone for the franchise. “You feel for your kids,” Christie added. “It’s just difficult.”
Source: Hoops Wire
