Joel Embiid has been sidelined for a month. In his first action back, the former scoring champion looked like he hadn’t missed a beat.
Embiid finished with a game-high 35 points to lift the Sixers to a 157-137 victory over the Chicago Bulls at Xfinity Mobile Arena. His return to the starting lineup marked his first game action since February 26.
Despite that, Embiid looked anything but rusty.
Joel in Q1 🎥⤵️
The perennial All-Star went 12-for-17 from the floor. He converted all but one of his nine free throw attempts.
In just 28 minutes, Embiid led all scorers with 35 points.
It is the 11th such game in which Embiid scored 35+ points in less than 30 minutes played. Only Steph Curry (12) has accomplished this feat more.
For the Sixers, the high-scoring rout marks their 40th win of the season.
The team’s 157 points against Chicago are the most Philadelphia has scored since 1970.
Embiid Returns Just in Time For Sixers Playoff Push
GettyJoel Embiid erupts for 35 points after month-long absence
Embiid could do no wrong offensively in his return.
No matter who the Bulls defense tossed at him, Embiid could not be denied.
He came out of the gate firing, scoring 15 first-quarter points. He was perfect on three attempts from deep in the opening frame.
Embiid is the NBA’s all-time leader in points per minute and looked every bit of it against Chicago.
35 PTS | 7 AST | 6 REB
@PALotteryHis near 40-point return is a welcome sight to see for the Sixers brass and fans alike.
Tyrese Maxey has been otherworldly, but if the Sixers want to make a title run, they’ll need Embiid leading the charge.
When healthy, Embiid is one of the toughest covers in the league. With the playoffs on the horizon, the Sixers should be thrilled to see flashes of brilliance from Embiid.
Paul George Shines in Return From Suspension
GettyPaul George scored 23 second-half points against Chicago
Embiid was not the only Sixers star to return against Chicago.
Paul George, who served a 25-game PED suspension, returned to the floor alongside Embiid.
He was not as sharp early but caught fire after halftime.
Playing for the first time since Jan. 29 due to a violation of the NBA’s drug policy, George missed eight of his 10 field goals in the first half.
He was much more efficient and decisive after halftime and scored 23 points in the second half.
The former All-Star logged 28 points, six rebounds, seven assists and four steals. He shot 11-for-22 from the field. Additionally, he converted six of his 13 three-point attempts.
His two-way contributions were exactly what Daryl Morey and the Sixers envisioned when George agreed to a four-year pact in Philly.
“I’m just happy to see him out there hooping,” said teammate VJ Edgecombe.
Following the game, the Sixers star says he wants to play in each of the Sixers final 10 (now nine) games if his body permits.
Kyle Neubeck with PHLY Sports reported that George felt “100 percent better” following his lengthy absence.
He said in the locker room tonight he felt “100 percent better” physically and much more explosive than before
The Sixers remain without Tyrese Maxey (hand) and Kelly Oubre (elbow). Both are expected back this season.
Sixers Break 56-Year Record Behind Dominant Joel Embiid Return