Philadelphia, PA — The Philadelphia 76ers began their season with two consecutive come-from-behind victories—one on the road against the Boston Celtics and the other at home against the Charlotte Hornets. Facing the Orlando Magic Monday evening, the Sixers once again fought tooth and nail to come out on top.
Without Joel Embiid, Paul George, Trendon Watford, and Dominic Barlow —four of the Sixers' tallest players —Philadelphia faced an Orlando squad well-known for being both big and physical.
Despite the size discrepancy, the Sixers' speed and relentless spirit gave them the edge early on, as Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, and Kelly Oubre bore the scoring load.
As the game progressed, Orlando's physicality would bring them to the line repeatedly, giving them a strong advantage at the charity stripe.
The Magic's three-man unit of Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner and Desmond Bane combined for 78 points, punishing the Sixers' defenders primarily inside.
Opposite them, Maxey, Edgecombe and Oubre combined for an incredible 94 points, 18 rebounds, and 19 assists. Together, the trio sealed a 136-124 win for Philadelphia.
Each player stood out in their own right for a number of reasons. Maxey's poise and ferocity have led this team all season. It's his voice, his work ethic that has bled into his teammates, recreating the chemical makeup of this team.
The final fourth-quarter push was not completed by any one player, but it was Maxey who played the role of the superstar. Throughout his young career, many have been skeptical whether he could ever truly be the top star on a winning team. He's done everything in his power to prove he's a true star this season.
VJ, or rather Valdez Drexel, out of respect, has looked like anything but a rookie. His confidence, shot diet, shot selection, decision-making, and court vision are all well beyond his years. Coming into the league, Edgecombe was expected to be one of the more "NBA-ready" players due to his athletic traits, but through three games, he looks every bit like a bona fide star at just 20 years old.
Kelly Oubre also deserves flowers not just for his performance tonight, but throughout the young season. In the team's first two games, he proved critical in their comeback efforts. Tonight, Oubre was a force from the jump.
Philadelphia has a quick turnaround, heading down to DC to face the Wizards tomorrow night. While not yet confirmed, Joel Embiid is expected to return to the court when the team faces a young, hungry Washington team.
