RSS 76ers Team Notes

Maxey, Edgecombe lead the way again as Sixers sweep back-to-back vs. Mavs

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Now, that’s how you handle a back-to-back.

After beating the red-hot New York Knicks Friday, the Sixers returned home Saturday to beat the Dallas Mavericks 121-114. The Sixers have now won three of their last four and sit at 16-11 overall.

The Sixers were yet again led by the electric backcourt of Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe. Maxey finished with a game-high 38 points on 15-of-31 from the field and 5-of-11 from three. Edgecombe was right behind him with 16 points on 10-of-21 from the floor. They each added four assists and had just two turnovers between them (both by Edgecombe). Dominick Barlow tied a career high with 21 points.

Impressive rookie Cooper Flagg and veteran Anthony Davis paced the Mavericks with 24 points apiece.

The Sixers were without Joel Embiid, who missed his second straight game with designations of an illness and right knee injury management. Paul George was out for the second half of the back-to-back. Kelly Oubre Jr. and Trendon Watford remained sidelined. The Mavericks are still missing Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II was recently ruled out for the season.

Here are a few takeaways from Xfinity Mobile Arena.

First quarter​

  • It was a nice defensive start for Barlow, who came up with a nice trail block of Anthony Davis in transition. A couple possessions later, Barlow picked the pocket of Flagg and took it the other way for a dunk. What a find he’s been.
  • Maxey buried his first three, then found Edgecombe for a difficult and-one finish in transition. It looked like the Sixers would keep rolling from last night, but then they missed a bunch of bunnies — notably, Quentin Grimes missed a pair of transition layups against his former team. It caused Nick Nurse to burn an early timeout to steady things.
  • Holy moly, VJ Edgecombe. Much like he did in the fourth quarter at MSG, the rookie took this game over. He hit a pair of midrange shots, the second being an and-one. Moments later, he drilled a three and was fouled for another and-one. He finished with a 14-point first quarter. This kid is unreal.
  • Turnovers were a big help for the Sixers. They forced seven Dallas turnovers while only committing one. It’s the biggest reason they led 38-33 despite shooting 37.5% from the field. The margin would’ve been even bigger, but Jabari Walker picked up an absolutely egregious foul on a three-quarter court heave by Naji Marshall with 0.3 second left. Marshall sank all three from the charity stripe to end the frame.

Second quarter​

  • Another solid start to the quarter for Barlow. He had a nice and-one finish on Davis off the glass and a strong drive a couple possessions later. He’s just an opportunistic player. He picked his spots to the tune of 16 points.
  • Quentin Grimes’ struggles continued. He missed a three badly and was later blocked by Davis at the rim. He’s proven to be very streaky this season.
  • Another three for Andre Drummond. What a wild turn of events. Drummond struggled with Davis at times — some of it looking like fatigue from playing the previous night, some of it being that AD is just good at basketball.
  • The Sixers got sloppy with a couple live ball turnovers of their own — the last one led to Edgecombe picking up his third foul and forcing him to sit. The Mavs hung around, briefly taking a lead, but a Maxey surge near the end of the half was huge. His three-level scoring was on full display as he got the Sixers back out in front.
  • Maxey led all scorers with 22 at the half. Turnovers continued to be the story. Dallas shot 56.4% from the field, but their 11 giveaways mitigated that a little. The Sixers held a 68-62 advantage.

Third quarter​

  • It was a brutal start to the second half. A quick 10-0 Mavs’ run run forced an early timeout from Nurse as Dallas went in front. Edgecombe stopped the bleeding after the break with a nice drive, his first bucket since that great first quarter.
  • Barlow continued to be aggressive with another successful drive to the basket, picking up a foul on P.J. Washington. His 21 points were not only a season high, but it tied a career high.
  • Flagg is really freaking good. He had a nasty two-hand flush on a baseline cut. Give Drummond credit for not making a business decision, but it was a serious dunk by Flagg,
  • Grimes finally got his first bucket of the night, followed by his second one off a Jared McCain steal. The Sixers struggled to find their footing all quarter, but they kept it close. Flagg and Marshall’s size and ability to finish were a problem all night.
  • And another 20-point night for Edgecombe, his fourth in a row.
  • The Sixers just couldn’t seem to get that big basket or stop to swing momentum back in their favor. They continued to struggle at the rim and from three. It was another brutal third quarter in a season full of them. Dallas took the period 35-23 and held a 97-91 advantage heading to the fourth.

Fourth quarter​

  • Apparently Adem Bona was a little jealous of Drummond. He got into the act with a corner three of his own as the shot clock was winding down. It got the Sixers within one. A Maxey drive gave the Sixers the lead back, 99-98.
  • Again it was the Sixers’ homegrown guard trio leading the way down the stretch. Maxey was doing his usual fourth-quarter thing, while Edgecombe and McCain helped relieve some pressure and got out in transition. Nurse was also sticking with Bona, who did seem to have the fresher legs needed to handle Davis. He made a strong defensive play on Davis at the rim and swatted a Flagg attempt into the seats.
  • The biggest takeaway from this game: Flagg and Edgecombe look like they’re going to be stars. The possessions where they were matched were a whole lot of fun.
  • What a fun sequence for Maxey. He drew an offensive foul on Davis on one end — Dallas reviewed it but the call was upheld — and then buried a three after the break in action to extend the Sixers’ lead to 115-104. They held on from there.
  • Fun night down at Xfinity Mobile Arena as the Sixers win 121-114. They will be back in action Tuesday as they host the Brooklyn Nets.
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/76er...cap-tyrese-maxey-vj-edgecombe-dominick-barlow
 
Joel Embiid probable, but two others questionable with illness

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‘Tis the season … for infectious disease.

The good news is Joel Embiid, who’s missed the last two games because of an illness and right knee injury management, is listed as probable against the Brooklyn Nets Tuesday. Head coach Nick Nurse said Embiid practiced fully on Monday and that he looked better and reported feeling better.

The last two games before these most recent absences were Embiid’s best of the season. He dropped a season-high 39 points in a win over the Indiana Pacers and grabbed a season-high 14 rebounds in a road loss to the Atlanta Hawks. Before Embiid, Tyrese Maxey was forced to miss two games with an illness.

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The bad news is the virus appears to be spreading through the locker room. Both Dominick Barlow and Quentin Grimes are listed as questionable. Barlow has started the last 10 games for the Sixers, while Grimes has only missed one game this season.

Kelly Oubre Jr. and Trendon Watford remain out, though both were able to do individual work at practice on Monday. Paul George, who sat for the second half of the team’s latest back-to-back against the Dallas Mavericks, is not listed on the injury report,

The Nets will be without impressive rookie Drake Powell, who’s dealing with a right ankle sprain. Cam Thomas remains out with a left hamstring strain. Former Sixer Haywood Highsmith has yet to play a game this season while recovering from offseason knee surgery.

The Sixers will host Brooklyn Tuesday night before heading on a five-game road trip starting Friday night in Chicago against the Bulls.
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/76er...le-quentin-grimes-dominick-barlow-paul-george
 
Report: NBA to ‘brainstorm’ new ways to combat tanking

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The NBA is no stranger to controversy. Fresh off a gambling scandal, the league is now turning its attention to tanking, specifically exploring ways to combat it. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on the latest developments:

The NBA and its stakeholders have started talks on finding new solutions to prevent tanking — and the league proposed multiple ideas to the Board of Governors as the sides brainstorm cures.

ESPN story: https://t.co/qyToetDN9E

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 23, 2025
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According to Charania, the league has proposed several potential changes to rules regarding draft pick protections, the draft lottery, and other approaches. The main focus seems to be on teams that have shut down players early or sat them for games in an attempt to improve their draft position. Charania provides the following concrete examples:

  • Limiting pick protections to either the top four or 14th and higher, eliminating the “problematic” mid-lottery protections
  • Preventing a team from drafting in the top four in consecutive years
  • Locking in lottery positions after March 1

In theory, these rules would discourage non-playoff teams from sitting their starters during the season and give them an incentive to keep competing.

Charania emphasized that the rules are not meant to penalize rebuilding teams that use their players normally, but rather to target teams that deliberately manipulate the standings late in the season to secure a high draft pick or fall within protected pick ranges.

Here’s where it gets pretty funny: In addition to the ideas proposed to combat tanking, the league office presented the Board of Governors with several examples of protected picks potentially impacting recent seasons.

The first example is the Dallas Mavericks. In 2023, they benched Kyrie Irving and Luka Dončić, resulting in two losses. While the Mavericks were fined for this, they still retained their pick.

The next example involves the Philadelphia 76ers, specifically last year. The Sixers lost 29 of their final 37 games, finishing fifth-worst and entering the lottery. As you know, they didn’t just keep their pick — they moved up to third overall, selecting VJ Edgecombe.

Another example is the Utah Jazz, probably the most blatant case. Last March, the Jazz were fined $100,000 for holding Lauri Markkanen out of multiple games. This season, they owe a top-8 protected pick to the Thunder, a situation Charania says many around the league are closely monitoring.

The Dallas Mavericks and Utah Jazz are certainly guilty to some extent when it comes to resting players. What’s fascinating, though, is seeing the Sixers continually lumped in with this group. Last season, their roster was decimated by real injuries. Joel Embiid rarely saw the court, and Paul George played only half the season before being shut down due to multiple nagging issues.

The only potential “manipulation” could have involved Tyrese Maxey, who was dealing with a sprained finger and a lower back strain down the stretch. If the NBA is using this as an example and essentially calling it fake, it’s a pretty funny report to put out. Maxey first sprained his finger in February and re-aggravated it in early March. It clearly affected his game — over his final seven games, he shot a dismal 32.4% from the field and just 20.9% from three.

Reports at the time suggested Maxey was aiming to return at the very end of the season, but by then, the Sixers’ season was effectively over. In early April, Maxey re-injured his finger while ramping up, which caused increased pain and swelling — effectively ending his season.

The NBA last updated its draft lottery rules in 2019, giving the three worst teams in the regular season equal 14% odds of landing the first overall pick and a 52.1% chance of finishing in the top four. Since those updates, three teams have jumped from outside the top five in odds to land a top pick. The two most recent examples are the Atlanta Hawks (10th) in 2024 and the Dallas Mavericks (11th) in 2025.

It remains to be seen if the proposed rules will come to fruition, but if they do, they could have ramifications for the Sixers’ future picks. This could include the Clippers’ assets the team owns, though it’s likely the rules would only apply to teams’ own selections and picks that haven’t been traded yet. We’ll just have to wait and see.

The previous lottery updates sparked plenty of controversy, and if these changes are implemented, it will be no different. This is definitely a story to watch in the coming months.
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/nba-...-nba-to-brainstorm-new-ways-to-combat-tanking
 
Sixers Bell Ringer: Sixers temporarily go on naughty list with loss to Nets

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2025-26 Sixers Bell Ringer standings:
Tyrese Maxey – 12
VJ Edgecombe – 3
Andre Drummond – 2
Paul George – 2
Dominick Barlow – 1
Adem Bona – 1
Justin Edwards – 1
Joel Embiid – 1
Quentin Grimes – 1
Jared McCain – 1
Kelly Oubre Jr. – 1
Trendon Watford – 1
15th roster spot – 1


You’ve heard the famous Michael Corleone quote, “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in.” The Sixers often do the opposite, where I’m ready to be fully invested in what’s happening with the team, and then they give me reason to doubt again. Things looked good over the weekend with the sweep of the back-to-back, including felling the Cup Champion Knicks. Naturally, then, the Sixers put forth a stinker of an effort at home, losing to the Brooklyn Nets of all teams, 114-106. Philadelphia will now head out for a difficult five-game road trip, hoping to put this loss in the rearview mirror. Before we hit the road, though, let’s talk tonight’s Bell Ringer.

Joel Embiid: 27 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 blocks, 3 turnovers

Tonight was an Embiid-centric affair in both positive and negative ways. He was far and away the best offensive weapon for the Sixers on the evening, shooting 8-of-13 from the field and 10-of-12 from the foul line. Joel had the mid-range jumper working, and also displaying encouraging physicality on the interior, bumping his defender to create space and finishing with some creative lay-ins around the rim. He looked like a man trusting his body. Of course, then, Embiid would later cry out in pain on the floor holding his right knee. Joel went to the locker room, then came back out with large ice packs on both knees on the bench, then…returned to the game, which seems…unwise? The hope is this game isn’t another inflection point we remember in the endless Embiid health saga.

Joel Embiid with the reverse and draws the foul 👀 he's got 15 points (and counting) in the first half tonight! pic.twitter.com/99n7gXejcu

— Liberty Ballers (@Liberty_Ballers) December 24, 2025
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Paul George: 19 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 4 steals, 2 blocks, 3 turnovers

George was responsible for the most fun moment of the game Tuesday night. He had been getting playfully clowned lately for not having a dunk on the season, so after getting a steal, he threw down a tomahawk dunk on the other end. The Sixers absolutely loved it and went nuts, as George screamed Gladiator-style to the crowd and Maxey ran out to chest bump him. It had to make you smile, which wasn’t often the case in this Brooklyn game. Overall, George was a menace on the defensive end with six stocks, and although his shot wasn’t falling, he managed to be reasonably efficient offensively by converting 7-of-8 free throws.

54 seconds of prime PG ✨ pic.twitter.com/NzhVMHYgV9

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) December 24, 2025
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Eric Gordon: 12 points, 1 steal, 1 block, 0 turnovers

I’ll say it before, I’ll say it again. 36-year-old Eric Gordon can still help this team in a limited role as a floor spacer. Getting playing time with both VJ Edgecombe and Quentin Grimes out due to illness, Gordon hit nearly half the team’s three-pointers on the night, finishing 3-of-6 from downtown. In fact, no one else on the team made on until there were under four minutes remaining in the first half. The vet also had a nice block in the fourth quarter, recovering off a screen to block a three-point attempt at the top of the key. All in all, a solid effort.

The Sixers only 3PT of the first period comes courtesy of Eric Gordon pic.twitter.com/pNJItVk8sz

— Liberty Ballers (@Liberty_Ballers) December 24, 2025
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/76er...porarily-go-on-naughty-list-with-loss-to-nets
 
Report: Sixers to sign MarJon Beachamp to two-way deal

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A loss so bad it causes a roster transaction.

Shortly after falling to the Brooklyn Nets, Tony Jones of the Athletic has reported that the Sixers will be signing MarJon Beauchamp to a two-way deal, and will be waiving Hunter Sallis in a corresponding move.

The Philadelphia 76ers are signing Marjon Beauchamp to a two way deal, League Sources tell The Athletic. The Sixers are waiving Hunter Sallis to make room for the move

Beauchamp is a former first round pick

— Tony Jones (@Tjonesonthenba) December 24, 2025
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Beauchamp has been in the Sixers’ organization since the preseason. He was signed to an exhibit-10 deal during the preseason and has spent his 2025-26 with the Delaware Blue Coats. He’s done well with Philadelphia’s G-League affiliate so far, averaging 26.5 points per game shooting 50% from the field.

A former first round pick in 2022, Beauchamp has bounced around between the G, the New York Knicks, and LA Clippers since parting ways with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Of course Sallis was going to be the casualty here as Dominick Barlow and Jabari Walker are prominent members of the rotation despite their two-way status. At 6-foot-7, Beauchamp offers a little more wing flexibility to this guard heavy team as opposed to Sallis.

Sallis signed with the Sixers after going undrafted, and really struggled in Summer League. He got only two opportunities to play more than five minutes in a game for the Sixers, and both of those were in garbage time during blowouts.

While Beauchamp has yet to stick in any NBA team’s rotation so far, he presents the idea of someone with size who can knock down an occasional shot. In his career in the big leagues Beauchamp is a 35% three-point shooter. He’s done so on extremely low volume, never taking more than the 2.7 attempts his rookie year, but he’s also never averaged more than 13 minutes per game in his career either.
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/76er...ixers-to-sign-marjon-beachamp-to-two-way-deal
 
Sixers play like a lump of coal vs. lowly Nets

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The Sixers gave their fans plenty of reasons to have problems with them, and it’s their turn to hear about it.

Philadelphia laid an egg, falling 114-106 to the Brooklyn Nets Tuesday night, a game that certainly wasn’t as close as the final score indicates.

Back after missing the last two games, Joel Embiid dropped 27 on 8-of-13 shooting along with six rebounds, but had yet another injury scare when he tweaked his knee on the first play of the second half. He only made one field goal in the second half.

Tyrese Maxey had his worst game in quite some time, though he was hardly the only one. He shot 3-of-14 from the floor for 13 points. Combined with Jared McCain, the Sixers’ starting backcourt shot 6-of-25.

Paul George finished with 19 points but shot 5-of-14 to do so. Michael Porter Jr. led all scorers with 28.

The illness going around continues to hit the Sixers — VJ Edgecombe, Quentin Grimes and Dominick Barlow all missed this game because of it while Kelly Oubre Jr. and Trendon Watford remain out as well.

Here are some thoughts at the buzzer.

First Quarter​

  • Despite Embiid knocking down his first two jumpers of the night, it was a fairly clunky start for both teams. Multiple Sixers just lost their dribbles on drives, and they airballed a couple times as well. Meanwhile, it took Brooklyn over four minutes to record their first field goal of the game.
  • It took the Sixers even longer to make their first three of the night though. They were just settling for so many midrange pull-ups early in the shot clock. Their only made basket in the paint for the first half of the quarter was Jared McCain pushing the ball while the Nets were still getting back on defense.
Jared McCain all the way to the cup in his first start of the season! pic.twitter.com/d3JhuognKT

— Liberty Ballers (@Liberty_Ballers) December 24, 2025
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  • Also, in spite of how clunky the game started offensively, the Sixers weren’t sharp defensively either and could not keep on a lid on Porter, who went for 14 in the quarter. This might have actually been a night where veteran presence could have helped get the shot selection back on track. Not much improved when Kyle Lowry and Eric Gordon checked into the game, though Gordon was able to knock down the team’s first three of the game to tie the game up at 27 after one.

Second Quarter​

  • George was one of the leading offenders for that start, and that’s not because he had airballed and wedgied two jumpers in quick succession. He looked to quickly erase that though, opening the quarter with a jumper, a steal,and a slam. He showed as much as emotion and excitement as he ever had in a Sixers uniform after that sequence, walking down the other end of the court to hype up the crowd.
Paul George doing it all 🔥 (and seemingly having fun doing it!) pic.twitter.com/WSFVn92Sno

— Liberty Ballers (@Liberty_Ballers) December 24, 2025
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  • That only ended up being a temporary fix as Gordon continued to be responsible for all the team’s three-point production. The most puzzling part of the team’s offensive struggles was that Maxey still had not taken a shot since the opening minutes of the game. He was hardly involved when the ball crossed half court as things ran through George and Embiid.
  • Maxey finally got involved again, but he wasn’t finding space on drives. He didn’t make his first field goal of the night until there were two minutes left in the half. The Sixers were desperate enough when Jabari Walker picked up his third foul to run Adem Bona out there alongside Embiid, but he also picked up two quick ones with the Nets in the bonus.
  • The one positive was not only was Embiid’s jumper falling, but he was moving to the basket well, getting one nice drive to fall as well as hitting a circus layup attempt. It felt like that was all that was keeping the Sixers in the game, a place they should never be in against this team. The Nets took a six-point lead into the break.

Third Quarter​

  • Well, if the first half looked bad, things only appeared to be getting worse. On the very first play of the second half Embiid got tangled up with Terance Mann and immediately grabbed at his right knee. He got up as quickly as he could in the moment, limped back to the locker room, and somehow was able to return a couple minutes later.
Joel Embiid goes to the locker room after being in visible/audible serious pain, holding the right knee, following this play.

Hard to see exactly what happened, but looks like Embiid's leg is slightly swiped out from under him by Terance Mann. pic.twitter.com/p5Jreq8P4d

— Erin Grugan (@eringrugan) December 24, 2025
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  • Before Embiid returned, the Sixers’ offense quickly became whatever offensive rebounds Andre Drummond could tap back in, and for like, a minute it was as good of offense as they had all night. That didn’t last long though, especially because they made it hard on themselves on the other end. Their inability to stop fouling helped the Nets expand their lead quickly on the other end, as well as putting a good chunk of the Sixers’ rotation in serious foul trouble.
  • While he was back in the game, the Sixers wanted another big out there with Embiid at all times. The combination of that and having to regain some trust in his legs made it hard for him to get any sort of positioning, and he wasn’t able to carry the offense like he did in the first half. To compound things, they started taking more aggressive gambles on defense, which is fair since they needed quick turnovers to turn things around. They came up empty on those gambles though, leaving a lot of open shots for Brooklyn, who led by 12 after three.

Fourth Quarter​

  • Whatever brief momentum the Sixers had built by scoring the last five points of the third was once again quickly erased. George kept trying to get things going with his pull-up jumpers but they were not falling for him. When everything is going this poorly, it’s even more embarrassing to get beat on every loose ball and hustle play, but that’s just what the Sixers were doing on the other end of the floor.
  • The reality of the situation may have finally set in as the Sixers finally strung together some solid defensive possessions, making sure to not allow any more offensive rebounds. A couple minutes into his shift, Embiid really started to move better again. He made a nice move to get around his defender and threw a perfect lob to Bona.
  • Despite the Nets going about five minutes without making a field goal, the Sixers continued to run into their own hurdles. Both Embiid and Bona had to really watch themselves the last four minutes of the game after picking up five fouls. Once they both had five, Brooklyn got a lot more comfortable in themselves again and hit enough shots to put the game away.
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/76er...se-maxey-joel-embiid-paul-george-jared-mccain
 
Joel Embiid briefly leaves game with apparent knee injury

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The last thing anyone wants to see is another Joel Embiid knee injury.

The Sixers’ star center went down on the team’s first offensive possession of the second half. He was bumped into by Brooklyn Nets guard Terance Mann and fell to the floor appearing to be in a tremendous amount of pain, slamming the court while clutching his right knee. Mann sort of undercuts Embiid, though it didn’t appear malicious. Mann was called for a foul.

Joel Embiid goes to the locker room after being in visible/audible serious pain, holding the right knee, following this play.

Hard to see exactly what happened, but looks like Embiid's leg is slightly swiped out from under him by Terance Mann. pic.twitter.com/p5Jreq8P4d

— Erin Grugan (@eringrugan) December 24, 2025
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Embiid went straight back to the locker room. Andre Drummond checked in.

Embiid did emerge from the locker room and was standing with his teammates. He thankfully checked back in midway through the third.

We’ll have more updates if Embiid or team provide them postgame.

Update: 11:34 p.m.​


Embiid spoke postgame and briefly discussed how he’s feeling.

Joel Embiid said he hyperextended his knee in the third quarter, and that he's feeling "alright" but he'll see how it feels tomorrow.

He talked about his general health later in his availability, and that his body does feel much better than it did coming into the season.

— Josh Grieb (@JGrieb10) December 24, 2025
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/76er...-embiid-leaves-game-with-apparent-knee-injury
 
Sixers Bell Ringer: Sixers lose second straight, allowing Bulls 10-0 run to close game

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(Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images)

2025-26 Sixers Bell Ringer standings:
Tyrese Maxey – 12
VJ Edgecombe – 3
Andre Drummond – 2
Joel Embiid – 2
Paul George – 2
Dominick Barlow – 1
Adem Bona – 1
Justin Edwards – 1
Quentin Grimes – 1
Jared McCain – 1
Kelly Oubre Jr. – 1
Trendon Watford – 1
15th roster spot – 1


Deja vu. The Philadelphia 76ers drop another close game to the Chicago Bulls, falling 109-102 on Friday night.

It was another questionable game from the Sixers, from missing a ton of shots throughout and playing some horrific defense at times to allowing the Bulls to go on a 10-0 run to close out the game. Just really not inspiring basketball.

VJ Edgecombe, Dominick Barlow and Quentin Grimes all returned to the lineup after missing Tuesday’s game due to illness. Joel Embiid, despite being questionable pregame due to right knee injury management, was also available.

This one was a back-and-forth battle of runs for the most part, but the Bulls had the important run when it mattered the most. Absolutely everyone, including the guys up for Bell Ringer here, choked in some way or another down the stretch for Philadelphia tonight.

All that being said, if you’re looking for a game recap, you can find that here!

The 16-13 Sixers face a tough one next, taking on the Western Conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder (26-5) on Sunday afternoon. That will be the second game of this five-game road trip for Philly.

Until then, let’s get to the Bell Ringer.

Joel Embiid: 31 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block

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Joel Embiid was in the starting lineup Friday after being listed as questionable for right knee injury management until just before the game. The big fella hyperextended his knee on a play in the Sixers’ embarrassing loss on Tuesday to the Brooklyn Nets, briefly heading to the locker room before surprisingly returning to the game.

He looked relatively comfortable tonight (by current standards, of course). There were a few moments of scares with Embiid in pain grabbing his knee, but he played like it wasn’t bothering him too much between those. In the first half, the big fella was battling for finishes at the rim, drawing fouls and hitting jumpers, leading the floor with 16 points on 6-for-10 field goal shooting and 1-for-1 three-point shooting at the break.

Is he as explosive or athletic as he was a few years ago? No, of course not. That’s just the reality. But he’s still finding ways to contribute. He put up 31 points in 32 minutes tonight shooting 10-for-19 FG and 2-for-4 3PT in addition to drawing fouls off the Bulls (9-for-9 from the line), and put up some really great screens off the ball.

Joel Embiid with the pump fake to create the 3-point play 🔥 pic.twitter.com/UVTIKFnJmP

— Liberty Ballers (@Liberty_Ballers) December 27, 2025
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Tyrese Maxey: 27 points (5 triples), 4 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 blocks

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Maxey, unfortunately, started this one as cold as he looked in Tuesday’s season-worst performance. Fortunately, he was able to turn it around by the second frame. After going just 1-for-7 from the floor in the opening period with questionable shot selection, Maxey started to look more himself approaching halftime. He shot 3-for-4 field goals in the second frame to bring his total to 12 points by the break.

He came out for the second half with a different energy than that with which he started the game, sinking a running pull-up triple in transition with zero hesitation. And he kept shooting them from long range, ending up with five three-pointers in this one. Once those were falling, the drives to the rim came with more frequency and to more success with them. A much better showing than Tuesday from Maxey, to say the least.

He finished Friday’s contest with 27 points, eight assists, four rebounds and two blocks in this one. He played 40:21.

Tyrese Maxey hits his fourth triple of the night here in Q3! pic.twitter.com/m0HAer2cYW

— Liberty Ballers (@Liberty_Ballers) December 27, 2025
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Dominick Barlow: 7 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, +10

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I have to give Dominick Barlow his flowers for continuing to be such a positive impact for this Sixers squad. He’s not going to score 20 points or have the flashiest highlights most games, but he’s been in the right spots making the right plays time and time again. Tonight was no exception. He is constantly aggressive on the boards, getting up put-backs and/or drawing fouls in the process. The same energy level is brought to his defense every night. Tonight, in a game that the Sixers lost 109-102, Barlow was a team-leading +10.

He had seven points on 2-for-3 field goal shooting and 3-for-4 from the charity stripe with six rebounds (three offensive), two assists and three steals.

Dominick Barlow is a maniac 💪 pic.twitter.com/W4xo3gx1kG

— Liberty Ballers (@Liberty_Ballers) December 27, 2025
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/76er...ia-chicago-bulls-nba-joel-embiid-tyrese-maxey
 
Do the Sixers have an identity issue?

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At this point, calling Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Paul George a “Big 3” is highly offensive to real trios of superstars that have taken the floor together for other teams. But that was at least what Daryl Morey and company envisioned when George signed with the team in the 2024 offseason. But that vision has been far from reality and we’re now almost a year and a half into the tenure of all three players on the Sixers.

It’s pretty dark when you think of it that way. George is in his age 35 season and signed for two more seasons after the current one. Even the optimist on the George contract probably didn’t see him producing at an All-Star level in 2026-27 and 2027-28. Toss in Embiid last year playing the fewest amount of games in a single season since he first stepped on an NBA floor and it was pretty understandable to see why Maxey was the only one of the three players that generated enthusiasm from the fanbase entering this season.

If you chose to view the glass as half full coming into 2024-25, and I doubt many did, your stance was probably something along the lines of “Embiid can’t possibly miss more time this year, right?” and “PG can’t really be worse than he was last season, right?” Well, yes, Embiid is likely to play in more than just the 19 games he played last season, having already appeared in 13 this season before he hit the new year. George has been about the same as he was last season, contributing mostly on defense and shooting percentages that are lower than what he was shooting in Los Angeles. So, I guess that means he hasn’t been worse than he was last season.

The problem is, last season was so bad for Philadelphia, and for Embiid and George individually, that the two players barely clearing last year’s standards of performance isn’t inspiring much confidence for their 2025-26 seasons. After Friday night’s loss to the Bulls, there’s a decent chance the Sixers do not win a game in the 2025 portion of the season in which all three of Embiid, George and Maxey are on the floor.

On one hand, it’s pretty explainable. Head coach Nick Nurse probably feels an obligation to involve Embiid and George, not only because of their salaries, but there have been glimpses — more so from Embiid this season than George — of why those players are paid what they are paid. Embiid had 31 points in 32 minutes of action in the Windy City on Friday night. He hasn’t been as explosive defensively, but he’s been better on that end of the floor of late. He won’t come close to MVP contention this season, but he might do enough on certain nights to remind everyone why he has won the award in the past. In other words, there’s enough from Embiid and George during some games for Nurse to want them heavily involved. But heavily involving the two of them limits how effective Maxey can be offensively and Maxey is far and away the most consistent of the three players at this point in their careers.

In each of the last two games, Friday night in Chicago and Tuesday night at home against Brooklyn, Maxey, George and Embiid all dressed for Philadelphia. Maxey scored below his season average in both games and shot a combined 12-for-38 in the two losses.

The same could probably be said for the other exciting young guard in Philly’s backcourt, VJ Edgecombe. Edgecombe did not play on Tuesday night against the Nets but went 4-for-13 from the field and was a -15 in Chicago on Friday night. The other two games that Philadelphia lost with its “Big 3” available were a game earlier in December against the Lakers and one at the end of November against Atlanta. Edgecombe played in both of those games and attempted just six field goals against Atlanta and was just 5-for-13 from the field against the Lakers in 38 minutes of action.

But let’s not put this all on Embiid and George. It’s easy to blame expensive veterans when the team results aren’t there, but it should be noted that prior to the two losses this week, Philadelphia was 5-4 in games Maxey and Embiid both played in without George and 6-3 in games Maxey and George both played in without Embiid. Additionally, while no one may want to hear this, all four losses with Maxey, George and Embiid on the court this season have been by single digits. Granted, Brooklyn was large and in charge on Tuesday night, but the losses to the Bulls and Lakers were tightly contested into the final minutes and the loss to Atlanta went to double overtime. A couple plays here and there could have flipped two of these games to wins and 2-2 with all three players on the floor suddenly doesn’t feel like an identity crisis.

It’s also important to point out that in the double overtime loss to Atlanta, the minutes of Embiid and George were being monitored in a game that was 10 minutes longer than the standard 48 minutes. Against the Lakers, Embiid simply had a rough shooting night — average night from Embiid from the field probably gives the Sixers a win there without anyone else contributing more.

There are a variety of other factors that should be considered here as well when discussing the team’s 0-4 record in games Embiid, George and Maxey all appear in. Are we asking enough questions about Nurse’s performance this season? I’m not calling for a coaching change, but it is the job of the head coach to get the most out of his roster and find ways to maximize his players. The above research on Maxey and Edgecombe’s performances in games with Embiid and George on the floor would suggest that Nurse has not done a good job of empowering his young guards in every game this season.

Additionally, while lots of attention will always be on Embiid, George and Maxey for as long as they’re all teammates, a little more help on some of these nights could have again flipped two of the four losses to wins. Against the Bulls this past Friday night, Embiid, George and Maxey all scored in double figures. The only other Sixer to score in double figures in the game was Edgecombe, who just got there with 10 points on an inefficient shooting night. In the loss earlier this month to the Lakers, Quentin Grimes played 29 minutes off the bench and shot just 1-for-6 from three-point land. Justin Edwards and Adem Bona got 20 and 19 minutes of action respectively on Tuesday against Brooklyn. Edwards was a -9 in his 20 minutes and Bona was a -10. Jared McCain has not been able to pick up where he left off last year. Perhaps what’s most disappointing about all of this is that Andre Drummond has actually been pretty solid for Philly too. But there just haven’t been enough steps forward by some of the young players who are not named Maxey or Edgecombe. Sure, some of that could again be Nurse not getting the most out of them, but the players are also not innocent bystanders.

So, to answer the question, do the Sixers have an identity issue? They might. But it’s also probably too early to say. They’re 16-13 following the loss to the Bulls and they got to 13 losses a lot faster than their 29th game in 2024-25. For as open as the East feels this season, it’s hard to complain with a regular season that sees Philly tread water and do enough to finish with one of the top six seeds in the conference and avoid the play-in tournament if that’s where this is headed.

However, there’s also a world in which the issues with Embiid, Maxey and George all playing do not get fixed. It’s not impossible to see the Sixers miss the play-in tournament all together or certainly lose quickly in it. In this kind of one step forward, two steps backwards season, Nurse probably gets pink slipped in the spring, and the Sixers move forward hoping someone else can make the most out of the situation next season. Of course, I’m sure they’ll try to get off of the final two years of George’s contract, but this is the bed they’ve made for themselves.

Right now it’s a bed that’s comfortable enough to sleep in 2-3 days a week, but impossible to sleep in for the other 4-5 days in the week. Maybe they’ll get more comfortable as the season wears on. If not, 2025-26 is going to be a bumpy ride to nowhere.
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/76er...ty-issue-joel-embiid-tyrese-maxey-paul-george
 
Joel Embiid out Sunday against Thunder

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Philadelphia will be missing a big piece of its starting lineup when they square off against the defending champion Thunder Sunday afternoon in Oklahoma City. On Saturday evening, the Sixers designated Joel Embiid as out due to right knee injury management and a right ankle sprain. Paul George was listed as probable by the team, with Kelly Oubre Jr and Trendon Watford remaining out.

The Sixers have an injury report for tomorrow's game @ OKC:

Joel Embiid – right knee injury management; right ankle sprain – OUT

Paul George — left knee injury management — PROBABLE

Kelly Oubre Jr. – left knee sprain – OUT

Trendon Watford – left adductor strain – OUT

— Adam Aaronson (@SixersAdam) December 27, 2025
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While the knee management has obviously been an ongoing issue, this injury report is the first mention of the ankle sprain, presumably something Embiid suffered in Friday night’s loss to the Chicago Bulls. Joel tied a season-high with 32 minutes played in Chicago, scoring 31 points. There was no mention of an ankle issue at the time, as he closed the game in the 109-102 defeat.

Embiid has appeared in 13 games this season, averaging 21.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.3 blocks. His current 27.0 minutes per game would be his lowest mark since his 2016-17 rookie season, and Sunday will be his 17th game missed for the 16-13 Sixers. While Joel is on pace to far exceed his 19 games played last season, appearing in less than half the team’s games has to be hurting the team’s cohesion and continuity to some degree. Unfortunately, there are no signs of the situation dramatically altering at any point soon, as the Sixers and Embiid himself are subject to the whims of how his body feels on a daily basis. Following the Oklahoma City contest, the Sixers will next play in Memphis on Tuesday night.
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/76ers-injury-report/83099/joel-embiid-out-sunday-against-thunder
 
Sixers Bell Ringer: First half effort of Tyrese Maxey, Sixers bench bright spot in loss to OKC

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2025-26 Sixers Bell Ringer standings:
Tyrese Maxey – 12
VJ Edgecombe – 3
Joel Embiid – 3
Andre Drummond – 2
Paul George – 2
Dominick Barlow – 1
Adem Bona – 1
Justin Edwards – 1
Quentin Grimes – 1
Jared McCain – 1
Kelly Oubre Jr. – 1
Trendon Watford – 1
15th roster spot – 1


Well… the first half was kind of fun, at least.

The Philadelphia 76ers fell 129-104 to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday afternoon.

The Sixers were right in there with the defending NBA champions through the first half, led by Tyrese Maxey putting up 23 points on 8-for-10 field goal shooting by the break. By midway through the third, things started to slide a bit in favor of the Thunder, with OKC building a double-digit lead. By the halfway point of the final frame, the Thunder had amassed a 25-point lead. It was a really valiant first half effort from Philadelphia, but OKC simply took over the game in the second.

If you’re looking for a full game recap, you can check that out here.

Let’s get to the Bell Ringer.

Tyrese Maxey: 28 points (10-for-18 FG), 2 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals

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Tyrese Maxey got off to a stellar two-way start, leading all scorers with 16 points on 6-for-7 field goal shooting with three steals in the first frame. He stayed red hot, carving through the Thunder defense with seemingly relative ease. By halftime, he continued to lead the floor with 23 points on stellar 8-for-10 field goal and 2-for-3 three-point shooting to go with two rebounds, three assists and three steals. His second half was not as strong (no one’s was from the Sixers) as the Thunder were able to completely clamp down on him defensively, but he still led the Sixers’ scoring by far with 28 points overall.

We know Maxey’s offense always has the potential to be this explosive, of course, but his defensive effort in this one was extremely strong as well. He looked extremely aggressive on the ball and has continued to develop his ability to lurk, read the opposing offense and intercept passes off the ball.

Maxey finished this one with 28 points on 10-for-18 field goal shooting with two rebounds, five assists and four steals.

The Sixers are hanging right in there with the Thunder here in Q2! pic.twitter.com/CnbGqCK9QE

— Liberty Ballers (@Liberty_Ballers) December 28, 2025
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Adem Bona: 11 points, 8 rebounds (6 offensive), 1 assist, 4 blocks

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Adem Bona had some really strong minutes — probably some of his best all season —for the Sixers in the first half of this one… which was great considering how OKC was easily taking advantage of Andre Drummond when he was out there. Not only did he put up eight points on 2-for-3 field goal shooting and 4-for-4 shooting from the line in the first half, but he was an absolute menace on defense. He had two steals by the break to show for it, but that doesn’t tell the whole story of just how energetic and involved he was defensively, helping keep this one extremely close going into halftime.

Even as things started to get lopsided in the second half, Bona kept bringing the energy, fighting for blocks and boards even when the game was realistically out of reach.

Bona finished with 11 points (3-for-4 from the floor, 5-for-6 from the line) with seven rebounds (five offensive), one assist and four blocks.

Adem Bona block ➡️ VJ Edgecombe assist ➡️ Justin Edwards triple pic.twitter.com/ZvDn8uWpTt

— Liberty Ballers (@Liberty_Ballers) December 28, 2025
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Justin Edwards: 12 points (4 triples), 5 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block

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Justin Edwards has had a rough season, let’s all be honest… but he seems to enjoy playing against the league’s toughest teams. This afternoon, he looked possibly the best he has all year in the first half against the defending NBA champs. Early on, Edwards was red hot from long range, sinking 3-of-3 attempts from beyond the arc for nine points along with three rebounds and a block by halftime.

His second half was not so great… but honestly the second half wasn’t exactly great for anyone on the Sixers. Thunder just took over. It would be great to see more of the JE we saw this first half in other games, though.

Edwards finished with 12 points (4-for-6 from three), five rebounds, one assist and one block.

Justin Edwards hits his third triple of the first half 🔥 pic.twitter.com/JxFoodGmR1

— Liberty Ballers (@Liberty_Ballers) December 28, 2025
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Jared McCain: 10 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist

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Jared McCain has had kind of a rough go since returning from the injuries that sidelined him for 11 months after ending the stellar beginning to his rookie season last year. Today was one of the better performances he’s had, especially shooting. The sophomore continues to look confident shooting, even though some inefficient games, and today they finally started falling smoothly. McCain shot 4-for-6 from the floor for 10 points in this one. He was 2-for-4 from long range, including hitting a really nice no-dip triple from the corner in the third frame.

Sure, it’s not the type of performance we got spoiled with watching McCain last season, but any game where the shots start falling like this is is a step in the right direction to getting back to that.

Jared McCain with the no-dip triple from the corner! pic.twitter.com/zmGNc66yJ4

— Liberty Ballers (@Liberty_Ballers) December 28, 2025
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/76er...klahoma-city-thunder-tyrese-maxey-bona-mccain
 
Joel Embiid questionable for matchup vs. injury-riddled Grizzlies

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(Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images)

The Philadelphia 76ers have dropped their last three games and their next opportunity to get back in the win column comes Tuesday night when they take on the Memphis Grizzlies. This is their third game of a five-game road trip.

As of Monday evening, Joel Embiid is listed as questionable for the contest due to a right ankle sprain and right knee injury management. For what it’s worth, Embiid was also listed with both ailments when he missed the Sixers’ last game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, but Nick Nurse told Philadelphia Inquirer’s Keith Pompey before that one that Embiid was sidelined due to the ankle, not the knee.

Sixers coach Nick Nurse said Joel Embiid is day-to-day with the sprained right ankle. He added that the ankle, not the right-knee injurymanagement, is the reason the center will miss today's game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) December 28, 2025
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Embiid apparently sprained that ankle in his last game, the Sixers’ gross 109-102 loss to the Chicago Bulls last Friday night. He played just over 32 minutes in that contest, putting up 31 points on 10-for-19 field goal shooting.

In addition vs. the Grizzles, Trendon Watford and Kelly Oubre Jr. both remain out for Philadelphia. That being said, the Sixers’ said on Monday that the pair are continuing to progress and, beginning with today’s practice, are being reintegrated into team activities.

Memphis’ injury report is… a bit longer. Kentavious Caldewell-Pope (hamstring), Brandon Clarke (calf), Zach Edey (ankle), Ty Jerome (calf), John Konchar (thumb), Scotty Pippen Jr. (toe) and Vince Williams Jr. (knee) are all out on Tuesday. Jock Landale (calf) is questionable.

The Sixers and Grizzlies will tip off from FedExForum in Memphis at 8 p.m. ET on Tuesday.
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/76er...el-embiid-injury-report-nba-memphis-grizzlies
 
Can Sixers break out of their slump vs. Grizzlies?

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The Sixers have had their fair share of tough opponents this month. They’ve picked up some solid wins, including victories over the Warriors and Knicks, yet they’re now sitting on a three-game losing streak after their latest loss to the juggernaut that is the Oklahoma City Thunder following a valiant effort in the first half.

Yet this slump hasn’t just come at the hands of top teams like OKC. Two losses beforehand to the lowly Nets and middling Bulls leaves Philly well in need of a bounce back performance.

Next up, their road trip continues against a team further down the rankings again in the form of the 15-17, 9th place Grizzlies.

Apart from Kelly Oubre Jr. and Trendon Watford remaining out, the only addition to the Sixers’ injury report is Joel Embiid as questionable. Despite technically being listed with both a right ankle sprain and right knee injury management, though, Nick Nurse did say it’s the ankle that kept Embiid out against the Thunder.

The Grizzlies’ injury report is a busy one, including Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (right hamstring soreness), Brandon Clarke (right calf strain), Ty Jerome (right calf strain), John Konchar (left thumb surgery recovery), Scotty Pippen Jr. (left toe surgery recovery) and Vince Williams Jr. (left patellar tendinitis) all being listed as out. Jock Landale (right calf strain) is questionable.

Sophomore center Zach Edey has been a bright spot for Memphis. He’s a strong presence inside at both ends of the floor, upping his averages this year to 13.6 points, 11.1 rebounds (3.9 offensive) and 1.9 blocks with a 66.9 true shooting percentage as a reliable finisher. But he’s also out right now with a left ankle stress reaction, leaving Jaren Jackson Jr. to carry more load anchoring the defense alongside Santi Aldama who’s stepped into the starting center spot.

Aldama’s already proven his fluidity with his passing chops, ability to put the ball on the floor, and quick-trigger shooting as a 7-footer, but he’s really given the offense a boost lately in his extra minutes. Even though his scoring overall has been a bit up and down, he’s scored 37 points twice in the last five games.

One of the various reasons for the Grizzlies’ shaky season so far is Ja Morant only playing in 15 games, while his production and efficiency (by far the lowest true shooting percentage of his career so far at 48.1) have dropped significantly. With Desmond Bane being dealt to Orlando as well, the team has looked rather different and their offensive rating has plummeted from sixth last season to a measly 24th.

Even still, Morant will be the main test for the Sixers’ backcourt on Tuesday. Tyrese Maxey has continued to defend better than ever this season, so he’ll need to put his energy and physicality on the ball and around screens to good use there.

Jaren Jackson Jr. isn’t quite in the All-Star form he displayed last season, but he’s still putting together a solid year. He’s also had his first two 30+ point games of the season in his last seven outings, averaging 24.0 points with 47.1 percent three-point shooting in this stretch. Keeping Jackson’s shooting in check when he trails into space in transition, relocates around the arc, and comes off screens will be key for Philly’s bigs and any forwards switching onto him.

Rookie Cedric Coward is a great talent to keep an eye on as well. The No. 11 pick from this year’s draft is averaging 13.5 points on 57.9 percent true shooting as a three-level scorer, 6.2 rebounds and 2.9 assists in 26.9 minutes per game. He’s also showing more growth and ability as a physical, controlled driver and sharp playmaker too, benefiting from increased on-ball reps while Memphis has been shorthanded.

It’ll be fun to see how he fares on Tuesday and matches up against the Sixers’ guards — both as a scorer, and how he uses his rangy defensive skills to guard them. VJ Edgecombe and Quentin Grimes will need to be ready to stay physical against Coward’s drives and versatile scoring.

The Sixers’ backcourt could use a turnaround in shooting form, too. Grimes and Jared McCain have both been in a bit of a shooting slump lately (apart from an efficient yet still quiet 10 point, 4-of-6 night for McCain vs. OKC), and even Edgecombe has struggled with just 7-of-29 shooting over his last two games.

Losing to the Thunder was always likely, but losses to Brooklyn and Chicago are obviously the kind the Sixers need to avoid if they want to secure a stronger standing in the East.

While there are some good matchups in Tuesday’s game, facing an underwhelming Grizzlies team should be a decent chance to break this losing streak and get back on track.

Game Details​


When: Tuesday, December 30, 8:00 p.m. ET
Where: FedExForum, Memphis, TN
Watch: NBC Sports Philadelphia
Radio: 97.5 The Fanatic
Follow: @LibertyBallers
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/76er...-sixers-break-out-of-their-slump-vs-grizzlies
 
Sixers Bell Ringer: Edgecombe’s three propels Sixers over Grizzlies

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2025-26 Sixers Bell Ringer standings:
Tyrese Maxey – 13
VJ Edgecombe – 3
Joel Embiid – 3
Andre Drummond – 2
Paul George – 2
Dominick Barlow – 1
Adem Bona – 1
Justin Edwards – 1
Quentin Grimes – 1
Jared McCain – 1
Kelly Oubre Jr. – 1
Trendon Watford – 1
15th roster spot – 1


The Philadelphia 76ers outlasted the Memphis Grizzlies in a 139-136 overtime shootout.

The Sixers entered the matchup looking to bounce back after dropping their previous three games, and had the full services of the Big 3 (plus the rookie) to do so.

It took maximum effort, as the Sixers finished with six players in double figures, compared to the Grizzlies five.

With honorable mentions including Dominick Barlow, Paul George and Adem Bona, lets move onto Bell Ringer, and how the Sixers pulled this one off.

Click here for a full game recap.

Tyrese Maxey: 34 points (4-of-7 from three), 12 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 steals, 0 turnovers

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Maxey had one of his most efficient shooting nights of the season against Memphis. He was the sole source of offense early in the game, but incorporated the big man seamlessly in the second quarter. The two-man game was a delight to watch, including some dribble handoff actions, a slick dime from Maxey to Embiid, and a nasty step-back over Jaylen Wells.

He finished the half with a double-clutch three to tie the game at 72, making 3-of-4 from deep through the first 24 minutes.

Not sure how the hell Maxey hit this one, but we're sure glad he did! All tied at 72-72 at the half. Maxey with 24, Embiid with 19. pic.twitter.com/AojmvYOwy7

— Liberty Ballers (@Liberty_Ballers) December 31, 2025
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Maxey shot 40% the rest of the way, but was crucial in running the Sixers’ offense and finding the open man on double-teams. He finished with 12 assists, his second-highest mark in a game this season.

In the first All-Star voting returns, Maxey was the highest total vote-getter amongst Eastern Conference guards. Tuesday’s performance should do nothing but strengthen the campaign.

Joel Embiid: 34 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 blocks, 1 steal

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Embiid tonight looked the best physically we have seen him all season. He was moving with purpose and without hesitation, going for loose balls and even attempting a self-oop dunk. He showcased the MVP-level touch from the midrange for most of the night, operating with the rhythm and fluidity that is so unique for a center at his size.

Big fella getting warm and the Sixers are right in this game pic.twitter.com/lXfC02fRhJ

— Liberty Ballers (@Liberty_Ballers) December 31, 2025
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Most inspiring were his strong drives and finishes at the rim that invited contact. He successfully drew fouls throughout the game, converting and-ones, and even halted some Grizzlies momentum getting the defender to bite on a pump-fake.

The big fella had multiple beautiful passes in the post, most of which where to a frequently cutting Dominick Barlow.

This Embiid-Barlow frontcourt 👀 pic.twitter.com/0mw20RZNt8

— Liberty Ballers (@Liberty_Ballers) December 31, 2025
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Now if we can see the physicality show itself defensively and on the boards late, the Sixers will be in great shape.

VJ Edgecombe: 25 points (5-of-10 from three), 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals, 1 block, 1 turnover

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Despite not having the strongest start to the game, the rookie would for sure leave his mark by the end of it. Edgecombe tallied 16 points combined in the fourth quarter and overtime, drilling 4-of-6 from deep.

He was going toe-to-toe with Ja Morant, who did everything in his powers to deliver a Grizzlies victory. Yet the shot-making of Edgecombe off of strong playmaking from Maxey kept the game tight until the closing moments.

The final three-pointer from Edgecombe was the difference, draining it with just 1.7 seconds remaining in the extra period, in front of a quickly closing Morant.

The definition of clutch: VJ Edgecombe

16 points in 4th & OT (4-6 3PT 6-12 FG) pic.twitter.com/4O9p4iO6ki

— Drew Peltzman (@dapeltz13) December 31, 2025
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It is wonderful to see a natural closer execute when Maxey was getting double-teamed consistently and Embiid was getting tired late. This was one of those performances that speaks to his level of confidence and poise in high-pressure moments. Hopefully we continue to see it the rest of the season.
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/76er...dgecombe-game-winner-tyrese-maxey-joel-embiid
 
5 Sixers thoughts: What the ‘Big 3’ holds, online discourse and more

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As we get set to roll into the New Year, here’s a series of thoughts I have on the good ol’ Philadelphia 76ers as of late…

The discourse around the minimum games played threshold is a joke​


So, as you’re all aware, the NBA implemented a rule a couple of years ago that players needed to reach a 65-game and a specific minutes threshold to be considered for end-of-year awards and honors. I kind of get that in principle even though it was clearly a middle finger unjustly pointed directly at Joel Embiid by the league and basketball community at large. Now, with another instance of injuries plaguing superstars like Nikola Jokić, the discourse is rocking backward as people claim it’s unfair given how electric Jokić has been this season and how otherworldly his numbers have been.

This is what you all wanted! This is Adam Silver’s NBA! Either get rid of the specifically spiteful regulation or get over it given that Jokić is still going to go down as one of the dozen-or-so best players ever.

The Sixers’ ‘Big 3’ isn’t a real ‘Big 3’​


I get that we’re all going to refer to Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Paul George as the franchise’s “Big 3” given their past accolades and contracts as long as they’re all still remaining in Philly, but I’ll be honest: I’m tired of it. I was tired of it when things went surprisingly well to start the season and I’m even more tired after some tough losses over the last week or two.

It feels like we’re begging for something that doesn’t exist, never truly existed from the start and isn’t even the predominant team-building strategy in the modern NBA. Daryl Morey is holding onto not just relics from his Houston days in the forms of roster spots blown on the likes of Kyle Lowry and Eric Gordon, but down to an actual outdated method of roster construction. Maxey is a First-Team All-NBA player this season. I will be forever grateful for how Embiid transformed this franchise. George, uh, exists. I’d be lying if I said I’m not counting down the days until Maxey is the only one still in Sixers red, white and blue (or black and gold).

Jared McCain needs to have no qualms about launching up threes​


I want McCain to be unconscionable as a shooter. There was a sequence on Tuesday night where he passed up an open look and sent the ball Paul George’s way. Dude, let it fly. Prove to Nick Nurse and the Sixers’ decision-makers that your brief, but torrid run from your rookie campaign wasn’t an aberration. Maybe it ultimately was, and the Sixers’ perimeter is crowded as is, but I am nervously waiting for a wiser organization to swoop in and make a deal for him.

I want Dominick Barlow in Philly for the foreseeable future​


I can certainly be critical of the Sixers organization as a whole, but credit where it’s due: signing Barlow to a two-way deal this summer was an absolutely ace move from the front office. Get him a long-term deal. I like the way he likes playing forward both alongside Embiid and in those times Embiid is off the court. His energy is infectious. Is he a star? Of course not, but he just screams “winning player” whenever I see him out there.

Why was such a colossal Sixers loss a part of one of the defining films of the 2010s?​


Alright, let’s end with something a bit more esoteric and fun. The film Marty Supreme, starring Timothée Chalamet and from Josh Safdie, dropped on Christmas and I loved it. Safdie’s previous directorial effort was with his brother, Benny, in 2019’s Uncut Gems. The heart of the film centers on Adam Sandler’s character Howard Ratner gambling on the 2012 Eastern Conference Semifinals matchup between the Sixers and the Celtics. I don’t know why I had to relieve my previous torture of watching Kevin Garnett destroy Spencer Hawes with moving screens, but, hey, it was a great flick. It’s an easy 4.5/5 on Letterboxd for me.

If the Sixers have an off night this winter, go hit the local cineplex!
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Source: https://www.libertyballers.com/76er...iid-tyrese-maxey-paul-george-nikola-jokic-mvp
 
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