PHILADELPHIA — In a remarkable display of resilience and skill, Joel Embiid pushed through an ankle injury to lead the Philadelphia 76ers to a 121-111 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Friday night. Embiid extended his impressive 30-10 streak to 13 games, finishing with 31 points and 10 rebounds.
Despite an awkward landing while trying to block a shot in the first quarter, Embiid managed to score all of his 31 points post-injury, keeping alive the longest 30-10 streak in the NBA since Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s 16-game run in 1971-72. His 14 consecutive games with 30 or more points are the most since James Harden’s 32-game streak in 2018-19.
After a brief visit to the locker room and scoring only two points in the first quarter, Embiid returned with a more aggressive approach. He scored 11 points by halftime and dominated the second half despite visibly struggling with his right leg.
The Sixers’ coach, Nick Nurse, acknowledged Embiid’s ankle injury, expressing concern about his condition and the need for careful monitoring before their next game in Miami. Embiid himself was reticent about discussing the injury postgame.
Tobias Harris and Tyrese Maxey also played pivotal roles, each scoring 33 points. This marked only the second time in franchise history that three players scored 30-plus points in a game. Harris’s 24 first-half points were crucial in keeping the Sixers in contention, while Maxey contributed 10 assists.
Pascal Siakam led the Raptors with 31 points, and Jakob Poeltl added 19, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Philadelphia’s offensive firepower. Toronto initially built a 15-point lead in the first quarter, but the Sixers gradually chipped away, taking the lead for good on Harris’ three-point play late in the second quarter.
Nurse credited Philadelphia’s strategic adjustments around Embiid, highlighting Harris’s significant impact in the game. Despite missing key rotational players like Nicolas Batum, Patrick Beverley, and DeAnthony Melton, the 76ers showcased their depth and resilience.
Looking ahead, the Raptors will host Utah on Saturday night, while the 76ers face a challenging matchup in Miami on Monday night. Embiid’s condition will be a critical factor for Philadelphia as they prepare for their upcoming games.
