205 and 131. These two numbers represent the total points of the Sixers after two matches against the Knicks, then that of the Joel Embiid – Tyrese Maxey duo. To better understand the impact of the two All-Stars, you just need to do the math: 64% of Philadelphia's points come from this duo. It was even 68% in Game 2.
It's a lot. Far too much even because behind it, it doesn't follow. Kelly Oubre Jr., Tobias Harris and Buddy Hield only averaged 16.5 points combined in the two defeats in New York! It’s simple, the third option is Kyle Lowry, with his 13 units and his 38 springs…
Buddy Hield has yet to score a 3-pointer…
Nick Nurse is aware of this: if he does not revive the second knives, the Sixers will have difficulty overthrowing the Knicks. How to do ?
“After Game 1, we no longer needed Nicolas Batum, Oubre Jr., Harris and the list goes on”, notes the coach. “I think we have some good ideas to get Kelly back into it a little bit. Tobias, I think, was excellent: he plays and defends hard. He goes for the rebound. He will have opportunities and will take advantage of them. »
The complementary players also make great efforts in defense, to limit (successfully) Jalen Brunson in particular. But they have to score points. The biggest disappointment is perhaps Buddy Hield: 2 small points scored and no winning basket in two matches and 26 minutes.
“I know Buddy hasn't done much yet but he's still a player who, if he puts one on… Then anything can happen,” continues Nick Nurse. “He had opportunities but we missed him. He was open for easy catch-and-shoots. At least three times we could have served it while the opposing defense had forgotten it. »
De'Anthony Melton as wild card?
What if the offensive boost came from the infirmary? While his teammates were fighting in New York, De'Anthony Melton was making efforts to come back. He has been bothered by his back for several months, and has only played a few snatches of a match since he joined the infirmary at the end of December. But he hopes to return for Game 3.
“The last two days I was able to play. It did me good, and my body too. I was able to train on Wednesday so I feel good for the match. We will see what it gives “he comments.
With his profile and his ability to score points in a short time (already observed during the 2023 playoffs), perhaps the back can give some breathing room to an attack too dependent on Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. It still has to be able to last over time. “Regarding my back pain, it’s more the day after that counts”explains De'Anthony Melton who always pays for the efforts the next day.
But time is running out for the Philadelphia players, trailing 2-0 and who absolutely must save their skin this Thursday evening at home.
