The New York Knicks made the most impossible comeback in Game 2. After a tense match between the Knicks and Joel Embiid‘s Sixers, New York edged out at home, going up 2-0 in the series. While the Knicks had momentum throughout the game, the Sixers did not give up, taking the game to the last possession.
However, the dagger by Donte DiVincenzo changed the outcome. Devastated, Embiid could not comprehend the five-point lead that the Sixers lost with less than a minute left in the fourth. NBA legend and Hall of Famer, Charles Barkley did not like Embiid’s reaction to the game. As a leader of the team, the Process was not looking so positive following the loss.
What I like to see from Joel, he gotta get his head up. Because he's the leader of the team, he's the best player, he's one of the best players in the world. If your best player got his head down like that, he can say 'It is unacceptable, we just gotta come out and win Game 3...' As the leader of the team, he cannot have his head down. He's gotta say 'Guys, we're fine. They did what they were supposed to do, we gotta go home and win Game 3 and 4.' Charles Barkley on Inside the NBA
Joel Embiid scored 34 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists in Game 2. The Process did his best even though he seemed pretty exhausted throughout the game. However, the point Barkley tried to make was interesting too, as Embiid is not exactly the only frontrunner of the Sixers. Players like Tyrese Maxey and Kyle Lowry have stepped up on both ends of the floor.
Joel Embiid has reliable teammates
While Embiid continues to do his best, he has a pretty reliable support alongside him. Maxey is consistent from deep as well as makes his shots, forcing teams to collapse on him, creating more space for Tobias Harris, Lowry and others. Lowry on the other hand has done an excellent job at guarding the perimeter and has made big-time plays in Game 2.
Clearly, the reigning MVP has great teammates who give their all when the best player in the team is struggling. Whereas, when it comes to his leadership, Embiid has struggled from time to time, either on the court or off the court.
The Sixers still have a chance to advance this year, however, certain measures need to be taken on the defensive end. With the series moving to New York for the next two games, the Sixers will have home-court advantage and a last chance at saving their first round. Game 3 will be crucial for the Sixers, as they cannot afford to lose this one. Going down 0-3 will eventually result in an elimination. It will be interesting to see how things play out for the Sixers.
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