In an action-packed showdown at Houston, Tyrese Maxey erupted for a career-high 42 points, propelling the short-handed Philadelphia 76ers to a narrow 131-127 victory over the Houston Rockets on Friday night. Despite missing key players, including Joel Embiid and Nicolas Batum, the 76ers managed to secure a win in a closely contested game.
76ers coach Nick Nurse praised Maxey’s performance, highlighting his aggression and speed on the court. Philadelphia, without their superstar Embiid for the third consecutive game due to a sprained right ankle, showcased their depth and resilience. Tobias Harris also made a significant contribution with 22 points, marking his fourth straight game scoring at least 20 points.
Nurse commended Harris for his controlled and decisive play, noting his current high confidence level in his game. This confidence was essential for the 76ers, who have now won four out of their last five games.
The Rockets, despite a strong offensive display, fell short in the final moments. Fred VanVleet led Houston with 33 points and 10 rebounds, while Jalen Green added 31 points. Alperen Sengun also had a notable performance with 28 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds. Sengun acknowledged the team’s effort but lamented their inability to finish strongly.
Key moments in the game included De’Anthony Melton’s crucial driving layup and Marcus Morris’s pivotal 3-pointer and subsequent free throw, which extended Philadelphia’s lead in the last 30 seconds. Green’s late-game efforts for Houston brought them close, but Melton’s free throws and a missed layup by Jock Landale in the final seconds sealed the win for Philadelphia.
The 76ers’ victory was particularly noteworthy given their absences, showcasing their ability to adapt and excel even without key players. For Houston, the absence of Dillon Brooks and Jabari Smith Jr. due to injuries was a significant factor.
Looking ahead, the 76ers will face a challenging game against Chicago on Saturday night, while the Rockets host Detroit on Monday night. This game highlighted the depth and potential of the 76ers, proving their capability to secure wins under challenging circumstances.
