Sixers secure Play-In win; Embiid absent, backcourt steps
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Philadelphia — The 76ers beat the Orlando Magic 109-97 on Wednesday in the NBA Play-In Tournament to clinch the No. 7 seed. Joel Embiid, six days after an appendectomy in Houston, attended the pregame film session and greeted teammates, offering an emotional lift though he remained unavailable to play. Coach Nick Nurse said Embiid was sitting and smiling in his usual chair, and the team has offered no timetable on his recovery.
Tyrese Maxey scored 31 points, and rookie VJ Edgecombe added 19 points and 11 rebounds in his playoff debut, despite four turnovers and a 1-for-5 mark from three. The game featured early tempers — Paolo Banchero and Kelly Oubre Jr. drew technicals — and five technical fouls were issued overall. Andre Drummond hit a go-ahead 3-pointer with 41.2 seconds left, and the Sixers now turn their attention to the Boston Celtics in the next round.
More context
Timeline
- 1. Joel Embiid underwent an emergency appendectomy in Houston earlier this week.
- 2. Embiid attended the 76ers' pregame film session and greeted teammates prior to the Play-In game.
- 3. On Wednesday, the 76ers beat the Orlando Magic 109-97 in the NBA Play-In Tournament.
- 4. Tyrese Maxey scored 31 points; VJ Edgecombe posted 19 points and 11 rebounds in his postseason debut.
- 5. The 76ers advance to face the Boston Celtics in the first-round series beginning Sunday.
Why it matters
The Sixers' win, even without star player Joel Embiid, shows the team's depth. If you're a fan, it's a sign of resilience. If you're a Celtics supporter, it's a warning: the Sixers are not to be underestimated. Keep an eye on the upcoming series starting Sunday.
Sources
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