Joel Embiid Goes for 59 vs. Jazz
With the Phillies qualifying for the World Series and the Eagles off to an undefeated start (before last night), the 76ers have been left behind as Philadelphia’s weakest team out of the city’s three favorite sports.
The 76ers have begun this season with a 7-7 record despite boasting star power in Joel Embiid and James Harden. Embiid has gotten off to an impressive start with averages of 32.3 points, 10.1 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.8 blocks per game. However, Harden is currently injured after averaging 22 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds per game to start the year.
Outside of the impressive pair, Philadelphia has struggled to find competitive depth. Tyrese Maxey has come on strong in his third season with 22.4 points per game, but players such as Tobias Harris and PJ Tucker have appeared not to be worth their expensive price tags.
However, in the 76ers’ matchup with a surging Jazz team on Sunday, Embiid nullified any issues on the roster with an all-time great performance. The big man led Philadelphia to a 105-98 win with 59 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists, and seven blocks. He shot a blistering hot 19-of-28 from the field and 20-of-24 from the line. Embiid finished with a +/- of plus-25, easily leading the team.
Embiid’s 59 points are the most from a single player this season and the third most in the calendar year. He trails just Kyrie Irving and Karl-Anthony Towns, who both scored 60 in March.
His production also came when it was needed the most. 26 of his points were scored in the fourth quarter. The scoring effort was much needed, with the game tied at 96 and just over four minutes to go in the match. Embiid took over down the stretch and was responsible for the 76ers’ final 13 points. Perhaps most impressive, though, is what he contributed outside of scoring.
His seven blocks fall just one short of the most by a player this season after Evan Mobley recorded eight earlier in November. His 11 rebounds also notched his seventh double-double of the season and 226th of his career. His eight assists were a season-high, as well.
Despite this individual success, Embiid says the credit goes to his teammates and coaches.
"This is not about me," said Embiid following the game. "We did it as a team. Obviously, the coaches put me in those positions and my teammates fed me the ball.”
For Philadelphia to have sustained success throughout the season, other players will need to step up and help Embiid. However, his effort against Utah has pushed the 76ers to a .500 record as they look to make the playoffs for the sixth straight season. If Embiid can continue this type of dominant performance, he may bring home his first MVP award, as well.