During the first five minutes, we can observe two teams rather clumsy in the offensive execution. Despite everything, it was Philadelphia who took the lead (11-6). Under the impetus of a Joël Embiid as usual dominating but also of a PJ Tucker in all the good moves defensively, the Sixers fly away by taking a 14-point lead (22-8). The Wizards still finish the first quarter strong by returning to 8 points (27-19).
The start of the second quarter is balanced. On a sublime dunk, Corey Kispert, author of already 8 points, brings Washington to just seven units from Philadelphia (36-29). But carried by 22 points from Joel Embiid, the Sixers are resisting the Wizards’ push for the moment, and lead 55-50 at the break.
Philadelphia starts the 3rd quarter very strong with a 10-2. Well served by James Harden, Tyrese Maxey gives his team a 13-point lead on a 3-point shot from the corner (65-52). While Joel Embiid already exceeds the 30 point mark, the gap stabilizes between 8 and 12 points (77-67). The Sixers lead 81-69 at the start of the 4th quarter.
Very well served by De’Anthony Melton, Paul Reed allows the Sixers to completely escape the score (88-71). Washington is no longer there at all, and on a 3-point basket, De’Anthony Melton gives Philadelphia a 23-point lead (98-75). The Wizards will not recover, the Sixers win 112-93.
WHAT YOU MUST REMEMBER
– Fifth straight victory for the Sixers. In the wake of a Joel Embiid at MVP level, Philadelphia continues its momentum by confirming its very good form at the moment with five straight wins. After being scared against the Blazers, the Sixers did not make any details this time by rolling over Bradley Beal and his band. With a well-oiled collective and a ball that circulates very well, Doc Rivers’ men will have the opportunity to continue this great series with a rather favorable upcoming schedule (Hornets, Pacers, Bulls x2).
– The poor form of the Wizards. At a crucial moment in the season, Washington collapses. It’s the fifth loss in the last six games, and the only victory came against the Pistons… While they could have grabbed 8th place in the East a few days ago, they lost two games hinges against the Hawks, direct competitor. Now, Wes Unseld Jr’s men are not even provisionally qualified for the play-in.
TOPS/FLOPS
✅ Joel Embiid. As usual, he responded. As usual, he was very good. As usual, he carried his team. He finished with 34 points at 12/21 shooting.
✅James Harden. All in control, he distributed the gifts and entertained his teammates. He finished with 18 points and 14 assists!
✅ Corey Kispert. To everyone’s surprise, he was the Wizards’ best player on the floor. He had a very good game off the bench with 25 points at 9/13 shooting.
⛔️ The Beal – Porzingis – Kuzma trio. In such an important match in terms of the classification, they were abominable, all three at the same time. They combined the three of them 13/41 in shooting…
THE FOLLOWING
Sixers (45-22): trip to the Cavaliers overnight from Wednesday to Thursday (00:30).
Wizards (31-37): reception of the Pistons on the night of Tuesday to Wednesday (00:00).
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