The game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Oklahoma City Thunder was a thrilling encounter. The NBA world witnessed two iconic duels that went down to the wire. Point guards Tyrese Maxey and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander went head-to-head against each other. There was also a battle of the bigs between reigning MVP Joel Embiid and Rookie of the Year frontrunner Chet Holmgren. Eventually, Joel Embiid came out on top with an insane 35-point performance, leading the 76ers to a 127-123 victory.

Here are 3-key takeaways as Joel Embiid’s versatile performance ruins Chet Holmgren’s big night and stuns the OKC Thunder at home.

1. Joel Embiid has a Nikola Jokic-like game

Joel Embiid is one of the best centers in the league. He is known for his scoring ability and defensive prowess, which led to him winning his first MVP trophy last season. But Embiid showed tonight how versatile he can be when his team needs him. The reigning MVP had a Nikola Jokic-like game and nearly scored a triple-double with 35 points, 11 rebounds, 9 assists, and 4 blocks. Embiid contributed to each aspect of the game and filled up the stat sheet. The NBA world is not used to seeing Embiid dish out these many assists in a game. He had 3 more assists tonight than his season average of 6.1. Joel Embiid has continued his incredible form from his MVP season, averaging 31.9 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 6.1 assists.

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2. Chet Holmgren is delivering beyond expectations

Although there were a lot of expectations from the 7’1 rookie Chet Holmgren before he started his NBA career, no one expected the dominance he has shown from the get-go. Chet has elevated his game to new heights in recent games. He surpassed San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama in the ROTY race with his incredible performance. Even tonight, Holmgren had a massive 33-point game that kept his team alive till the final whistle. He has had two 30+ point performances in the last four games. Holmgren is delivering beyond expectations, averaging 17.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks this season. OKC knows that they have a future superstar on their hands, and they will continue to develop his talent.

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3. 76ers know how to utilize their depth

Philadelphia improved their depth significantly with the James Harden trade. They added Nicolas Batum, Marcus Morris, Robert Covington, and KJ Martin to their roster. The improvement in their depth has helped the Sixers maintain a winning record in the East. Philly is currently ranked 4th in the East with an 11-5 record. 76ers head coach Nick Nurse has utilized Philly’s depth incredibly well, and their chemistry is growing with each game. Apart from their superstars Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, role players including Batum, Harris, and Melton have played great this season.

With such convincing wins over several good teams, will Philly’s trust in the process finally pay off with a championship this season?

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