Joel Embiid delivered a dominant 40-point performance to lead the Philadelphia 76ers to a 124-114 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday night, a game overshadowed by the earlier announcement of Paul George’s 25-game suspension for violating the NBA’s anti-drug policy. Embiid’s standout showing helped the Sixers secure their third consecutive win, boosting their record to 27-21 as they push for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
The center was efficient from the field, making 13 of 27 shots, including 3 of 5 from beyond the arc, and sinking 11 of 14 free throws. He also grabbed 11 rebounds, contributing to a double-double that underscored his all-around impact. Throughout the game, Embiid faced double-teams but still managed to find scoring opportunities, demonstrating why he is considered one of the league’s elite players. His performance was capped by ‘M-V-P’ chants as he hit a free throw in the final seconds to reach the 40-point mark.
Philadelphia struggled to pull away from the struggling Pelicans, who entered the game with only 13 wins. The contest remained tight until the final minutes when Tyrese Maxey hit a key three-pointer to give the Sixers a 117-111 advantage. Shortly after, Embiid and rookie VJ Edgecombe connected on consecutive three-pointers, extending the lead to 123-113 and effectively sealing the outcome. The Pelicans kept pace thanks to Saddiq Bey’s 34-point effort, but Zion Williamson was limited to just 11 points.
Earlier on Saturday, the NBA announced that Paul George would be suspended for 25 games after testing positive for a substance that violated the league’s anti-drug policy. The specific details were not disclosed, but George admitted in a statement to ESPN that he had taken something “improper.” This suspension is a significant blow to the 76ers, as George is a key contributor, and his absence will challenge the team’s depth and strategy moving forward, potentially impacting their playoff aspirations.
In George’s stead, other players rose to the occasion. Kelly Oubre Jr. scored 19 points, while Maxey added 18, including four three-pointers. The team’s collective effort from deep was notable, as they made 17 three-pointers on the night, showcasing their offensive versatility. The Sixers’ ability to spread the floor and hit outside shots compensated for the loss of George’s scoring and playmaking.
The game was played in front of a celebratory crowd at the Wells Fargo Center, marking the 25th anniversary of Allen Iverson and the 76ers’ run to the 2001 NBA Finals. Iverson was honored during the game, and several former players and executives were in attendance, adding a layer of nostalgia to the evening. The franchise’s history provided a poignant backdrop to the current team’s aspirations to end a long playoff drought.
With George sidelined until late in the season, the Sixers must rely heavily on Embiid and Maxey to carry the offensive load. The suspension complicates their playoff push, as they aim to break a streak of not advancing past the second round since 2001. Coach Nick Nurse will need to adjust rotations and strategies, potentially giving more minutes to role players like Edgecombe and Oubre to maintain competitiveness in the tough Eastern Conference.
Looking forward, the Pelicans will attempt to bounce back when they visit the Charlotte Hornets on Monday night. Meanwhile, the 76ers face a tough road test against the Los Angeles Clippers, where Embiid’s continued excellence will be crucial. As the season progresses, Philadelphia’s ability to adapt without George will be a key storyline to watch, with implications for their postseason chances and long-term roster decisions.
