PHILADELPHIA — Maxey and the 76ers Update Embiid on Play-In Game

Tyrese Maxey and his Philadelphia 76ers teammates provided updates to Joel Embiid regarding his potential participation in the play-in game.

Embiid has been out of action due to an emergency appendectomy he underwent last week. The team believed having him back could give them a morale boost as they aimed for a playoff spot.

To everyone’s surprise, Embiid showed up in the locker room about an hour before their game against Orlando on Wednesday night. His presence was an unexpected emotional lift for Maxey and the rest of the team.

“I gave him a big hug,” Maxey revealed. “It was nice to meet him.”

As the game progressed, Maxey stepped up his game during the fourth quarter, much like Embiid has done in critical moments over the years.

Maxey led the scoring with 31 points, and VJ Edgecomb contributed with 19 points and 11 rebounds, helping the Sixers secure a 109-97 victory over the Magic, thus clinching the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

The Sixers are set to begin their first-round series in Boston this Sunday.

Having been named an All-Star starter for the first time, Maxey remarked on his aggressive play late in the game, contributing seven straight points that helped finalize their win. “We missed some good shots in the first half, but we knew we could hit them,” he noted.

As the franchise’s all-time leader in 3-point shooting, Maxey made three 3-pointers and completed 11 of 25 attempts during the game. The Sixers managed to make 24 of their 58 shots and find their way back to the playoffs after a challenging last season.

Coach Nick Nurse acknowledged Embiid’s ongoing influence. “He’s been understanding that we need to realize his greatness at the right times,” Nurse commented.

The team has depended on Embiid’s talent throughout the years, but they’re also aware that navigating his injuries is part of the journey.

While there’s been no official word on when Embiid will return, he was involved in a video session on Wednesday and watched the game from the sidelines.

For the Sixers to make an impact against the Celtics, Maxey will need to continue performing at a high level.

Excited fans chanted, “We want Boston!” yet they should remember the history—they’ve lost their last six playoff series against the Celtics, the last time they led in a series dating back to 1982.

Maxey received a warm send-off from the crowd, including the presence of Allen Iverson, and his teammates gathered around to show their support.

“I promised some guys we’d get them to the playoffs,” Maxey mentioned, highlighting his commitment.

A bright spot after a disappointing previous season was acquiring the third overall pick in the draft. The Sixers, known for their rebuilding efforts, appear to have made a solid choice with Edgecomb from Baylor.

The 20-year-old had an impressive start to the season, scoring 34 points in his debut against Boston, which ranks among the highest for a player in their first game. He continued to impress in the play-in game, with 19 points and 11 rebounds under his belt.

Despite drawing a taunting foul after a dunk in the third quarter, Edgecomb felt energized by the intensity of the game. “We were adjusting a bit tonight. I think high-stakes games bring out the best in young players. I had fun out there, and I’ll make a bold play if it helps us win,” he said.