Taking to social media to reveal Embiid’s latest injury in what has been a stop-and-start season, The Athletic’s Tony Jones disclosed that “The Process” will miss the next three games after straining his right oblique in the team’s Thursday night win over the Miami Heat.

“Philadelphia 76ers star center Joel Embiid has been diagnosed with a strained right oblique and will miss the next three games,” Jones wrote on social media.

Initially beginning the season on the shelf as he recovered and ramped up from offseason surgery, when Embiid has actually taken the court for the 76ers, he’s largely recaptured his MVP form. “The Process” is averaging 26.6 points in just 31.2 minutes of action per game, is recording 3.9 assists to go with 7.5 rebounds each night, and has embraced allowing Tyrese Maxey to take over the offense at time, spacing the floor as a 31.8 percent 3-point shooter while power forwards like Dominick Barlow and Jabari Walker do the dirty work in the painted area.

Can the 76ers hold things down against the Boston Celtics, the San Antonio Spurs, and the Utah Jazz until Embiid presumably returns against the Atlanta Hawks on March 7? Considering the team holds a 12-14 record with Embiid off the court, that might be tough, but considering this injury came on a play instead of due to the further degradation of his knee or another lower-body part, it’s safe to assume “The Process” won’t need too much of a ramp-up to return to his vintage form next month.

The post 76ers’ Joel Embiid to miss multiple games with oblique injury appeared first on ClutchPoints.

For one night only, the league is stepping back into the 1990s, and honestly, it couldn’t come at a better time for fans feeling the burnout of modern streaming mazes.

The network is reuniting the heavy hitters that defined an era of basketball television. Bob Costas will lead the play-by-play, joined by the legendary Doug Collins and Mike Fratello, the “Czar of the Telestrator.” The nostalgia trip doesn’t stop at the booth, either.

Jim Gray returns to the sidelines, while Hannah Storm, Isiah Thomas, and P.J. Carlesimo will handle the studio duties. To complete the vibe, the broadcast will feature the graphics package and tape elements from the 1995-96 season.

While the presentation is old school, the talent on the floor is the definition of the new era. This matchup carries plenty of weight beyond the broadcast booth. We all remember when Joel Embiid dropped a career-high 70 points on a rookie Victor Wembanyama two years ago, but the landscape looks much different now.

Victor Wembanyama enters this contest averaging 23.7 points and a league-leading 11.2 rebounds per game, spearheading a San Antonio Spurs team that has remarkably won 11 straight games.

On the other side, the Philadelphia 76ers are finding their rhythm at the perfect time. Joel Embiid has scored at least 25 points in 12 consecutive games, and Tyrese Maxey is fresh off setting a franchise record for career three-pointers.

The 76ers currently sit sixth in the Eastern Conference at 33-26, looking to keep their three-game win streak alive against a dominant Spurs squad. Seeing the game’s most modern unicorns framed by the classic NBC aesthetic is going to be a trip. Whether you’re there for the Wembanyama blocks or the Bob Costas storytelling, Tuesday night is mandatory viewing.

The post NBC to bring throwback NBA broadcast for Spurs-76ers game appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Entering the game, he had knocked down 882 career triples, three shy of Iverson. He knocked down five of them in the win, going 5-for-12 from deep, including four in the first quarter.

After the win, Maxey shared his thoughts on surpassing Iverson.

“That’s just a blessing, honestly. I am just happy, man. I am blessed,” Maxey said humbly.

“I thank God. I thank the 76ers organization for drafting me, trusting me, and believing in me… Thankful to my coaches, Doc [Rivers], [Nick] Nurse, they instilled a lot of confidence in me.

“Last is my teammates, man. Everybody… I gave a shout-out to Tobias [Harris] earlier. In my rookie year, he told me I was a great shooter even though I wasn’t shooting as well as I wanted to. Lastly, Joel [Embiid]. He been on me about shooting 10 three’s a game since my second or third year. I appreciate that.”

After a couple of relatively stagnant years in Philadelphia, Maxey has taken off like a rocket this season. He is averaging better than 29 points per game, good enough for fourth in the NBA. But he has turned into more than a lethal scorer.

The 76ers’ guard is averaging almost seven assists, four rebounds, and maybe most impressively, two steals per game.

The post 76ers’ Tyrese Maxey credits Joel Embiid for passing Allen Iverson in franchise history appeared first on ClutchPoints.

After nailing a three-pointer late in the first quarter, Maxey surpassed Iverson’s three-point record for the 76ers. Iverson initially held the record with 885 made three-pointers during his time in Philadelphia.

“Tyrese Maxey has surpassed Allen Iverson for the most 3-point field goals made in 76ers HISTORY.”

Tyrese Maxey has surpassed Allen Iverson for the most 3-point field goals made in 76ers HISTORY

Maxey – 886 3-pointers made
Iverson – 885 3-pointers madepic.twitter.com/9dYoH98Q74

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 27, 2026

Maxey will have the opportunity to continue adding to his franchise record. Especially considering the six-year veteran signed a five-year, $204 million contract in the summer of 2024. That deal has him locked to Philadelphia through the 2028-29 campaign.

The 25-year-old guard has emerged as a superstar in Philadelphia since joining the club in 2020. He finally had his breakout year in the 2023-24 campaign after earning the Most Improved Player of the Year Award for his efforts.

Tyrese Maxey has continued to play at a high level, as he entered Thursday’s game averaging 29.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, 6.7 assists, and 2.0 steals per game while shooting 46.7% from the field and 37.5% from beyond the three-point line. His performances this season earned him the second All-Star nod of his career.

Maxey breaks Iverson’s record that was set back in the 2009-10 season. It took about 16 years for that franchise record to be broken. Tyrese Maxey was able to surpass Allen Iverson’s three-point record in just six seasons, while it took the 76ers legend just over 10 seasons to reach 885 three-pointers made. However, the game has significantly changed since then, as players shoot more threes than ever before.

The post Tyrese Maxey surpasses Allen Iverson for most 3-pointers in 76ers franchise history appeared first on ClutchPoints.

As per the official injury report, Joel Embiid, who starred in the game against Indiana, has been listed as probable as he manages right knee recovery and right shin soreness. The Sixers will already be without Paul George due to a league suspension, making Embiid’s presence critical despite the long bill of injuries the Miami Heat are themselves dealing with.

The Heat lost during their latest outing against the Milwaukee Bucks but have managed three wins in their last four games.

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Joel Embiid injury status vs. Heat

Embiid can be expected to suit up for what is a crucial game for Philadelphia. Embiid recently returned to the floor after missing five consecutive games, posting 27 points, six rebounds and five assists on 11-17 shooting.

The Sixers currently hold the No. 6 seed in the East (the final guaranteed playoff spot), sitting just 1.5 games ahead of the No. 8 seed Heat. Miami won the first meeting back in November, meaning a Heat victory tonight would clinch the crucial head-to-head tiebreaker for the season series.

In addition to Paul George, who is suspended, the 76ers are confirmed to miss Johni Broone and Kelly Oubre Jr. for this game, with MarJon Beauchamp listed as doubtful. The Heat, in comparison, have bigger worries.

76ers injury report

Joel Embiid: Probable (Right Knee; Injury Management / Right Shin Soreness)

Paul George: Out (League Suspension)

Johni Broome: Out (Right Knee; Meniscus Tear)

MarJon Beauchamp: Doubtful (G League – Two-Way)

Kelly Oubre Jr.: Available (Left Knee; Injury Recovery – Brace)

Heat injury report

Davion Mitchell: Questionable (Head; Illness)

Terry Rozier: Out (Not With Team)

Nikola Jovic: Out (Lower Back; Injury Management)

Tyler Herro: Available (Right Costochondral; Injury to the Ribs)

Keshad Johnson: Available (Left Knee; Soreness)

Pelle Larsson: Available (Left 3rd Mallet; Finger)

Norman Powell: Available (Low Back; Tightness)

Dru Smith: Available (Left Calf; Soreness)

Andrew Wiggins: Available (Left Toe; Inflammation)

The post Is Joel Embiid playing tonight? 76ers vs. Heat injury report appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Did Embiid look 100 percent back to his MVP form? No, he looked like someone who hadn’t played in a basketball game since February 7, but even if it took him a step or two longer to get up and down the court, he still gave Jay Huff and company fits at both ends of the court.

One fan who was particularly impressed with Embiid’s return? Former Villanova Wildcats basketball head coach Jay Wright, who took to social media to celebrate “The Process” for his efficiency and intensity on the court.

“Incredible talent to be out for so long and come back with efficiency and intensity!!” Wright wrote. “A unique talent Joel Embiid, Sixers.”

Incredible talent to be out for so long and come back with efficiency and intensity!! A unique talent @JoelEmbiid @sixers. https://t.co/rLfnPiLWRK

— Jay Wright (@CoachJayWright) February 25, 2026

The most successful basketball coach in the greater Philadelphia area this century, Wright has been the apple of 76ers fans’ eyes ever since his first National Championship win on the Main Line, with his 2022 retirement leaving many to believe he would make the jump to the pro level for the first time in his storied career. While so far, that jump hasn’t happened, the fact that Wright remains a fan of the 76ers has fans in the comments section begging him to get back on the bench in place of Nick Nurse, where he could unlock the “efficiency and intensity” of Embiid.

Will it happen? Only time will tell, but if Embiid keeps playing like his efforts against the Pacers, the 76ers might be able to get a banner of their own before “The Process” joins Wright in retirement.

The post 76ers’ Joel Embiid earns monster props from Jay Wright appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Of course, injuries have come thick and fast in the NBA and while the 76ers have multiple big absences to deal with including Paul George’s suspension, the Pacers have crippling availability issues. Tyrese Haliburton’s absence is compounded by Pascal Siakam potentially missing the game with a left wrist injury, alongside a host of players who are confirmed to be out for last year’s finalists, per the official injury report.

Joel Embiid injury status vs. Pacers

Joel Embiid’s status will likely be a game-time decision. Currently sitting at 31-26, the Sixers are clinging to sixth place in the Eastern Conference.

They recently snapped a four-game skid with a massive 135-108 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, spurred by Tyrese Maxey’s 39 points and a season-best 56.8% shooting display from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, the Pacers (15-43) are trying to stop a three-game home losing streak after a tight 134-130 loss to Dallas, despite 30 points from Pascal Siakam.

When healthy, Embiid is as dominant as ever. The former MVP is averaging 26.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game while shooting 49.4% from the field.

He has also historically thrived against Indiana, averaging 31 points and 11 assists in 22 career games against them, his highest scoring average against any Eastern Conference opponent. Joel Embiid did play in the Sixers’ earlier meeting against the Pacers this season in Philadelphia on Jan. 19, posting a game-high 30 points.

76ers injury report

Joel Embiid: Questionable (Right knee injury management / right shin soreness)

MarJon Beauchamp: Doubtful (G League – Two-Way)

Paul George: Out (League suspension)

Johni Broome: Out (Right knee meniscus tear)

Pacers injury report

Micah Potter: Probable (Left ankle sprain)

Kam Jones: Questionable (Lower back soreness)

T.J. McConnell: Questionable (Right hamstring soreness)

Andrew Nembhard: Questionable (Lower back injury management)

Quenton Jackson: Questionable (G League – Two-Way)

Taelon Peter: Questionable (G League – Two-Way)

Ethan Thompson: Questionable (G League – Two-Way)

Pascal Siakam: Doubtful (Left wrist sprain)

Johnny Furphy: Out (Right ACL tear)

Tyrese Haliburton: Out (Right Achilles tendon tear)

Aaron Nesmith: Out (Right ankle sprain)

Obi Toppin: Out (Right foot stress fracture)

Ivica Zubac: Out (Left ankle sprain)

The post Is Joel Embiid playing tonight? 76ers vs. Pacers injury report appeared first on ClutchPoints.

McCain is averaging 14.0 points on 50.0% shooting, including 50% from deep on 9-of-18 attempts, 3.5 rebounds in 21.2 minutes in his last four games with the Thunder. He followed up a season-high 21 points in a 105-86 win against the Brooklyn Nets with 10 points, including a pair of threes, three rebounds, and one steal in Sunday’s 121-113 win against the Cleveland Cavs.

Without All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Ajay Mitchell, and Alex Caruso, Isaiah Joe joined the Thunder’s starting lineup, while McCain and Jaylin Williams combined for 20 points to lead the bench. Against a healthy Cavs team led by All-Stars Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and James Harden, Joe’s 22 points, including six threes and a career-high five steals, led the Thunder to victory.

After the win, Joe addressed how the addition of McCain has opened up creative opportunities for the Thunder’s offense, which is finding ways to win without three of its top four scorers.

“It puts the defense in a dilemma to help or not, and it kind of creates driving lanes, even when they went box-and-1, and they made that run, we were still getting really good looks,” Joe said. “I think Lu got a couple of wide-open shots — J-Will, Chet. The shot didn’t fall, but having that gravity out there, we just try to find ways to either get looks, get shots, and a lot of times it creates opportunities for other people, and other opportunities for everybody else.”

Joe is 33-for-65 from deep (50.8%) in February, including 18-of-31 in his last four games. The Thunder has won four in its last five tries without Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams, and Mitchell. At the same time, the Sixers are 1-4.

Jared McCain felt ‘all emotions’ after trade to Thunder

76ers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey felt confident about trading Jared McCain to the Thunder for a 2026 first-round pick and two future second-round picks. While the 76ers had a bit of a logjam at the guard position with rookie VJ Edgecombe taking on a prominent role over McCain, many fans felt it was too soon to give up on the sophomore guard.

Morey felt differently and wasn’t afraid to say it, as he did, per NBC Sports Philly.

“I’m quite confident we were selling high. Obviously, time will tell, but the only other high point, and we weren’t looking to sell, I’ll be frank,” Morey said. “Teams came to us with aggressive offers for him, and you could say, yeah, that’s because he’s a good player. I agree with that. We thought this return was above, for the future value for our franchise, what we could get. So the only higher point would have been during his run last season. But otherwise, we feel like we did time this well.”

"I'm quite confident we were selling high"

Daryl Morey explains why the Sixers pulled the trigger on trading the No. 16 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Jared McCain. pic.twitter.com/DM6qJyzmPk

— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) February 6, 2026

McCain couldn’t believe it. He revealed how he found out about his trade days after the deal was made.

“We were all on the bus to the airport, and I just got a call. I had no feeling. I didn’t think it was going to happen, to be honest. There was nothing, and I got the call, and just went and told everybody. I went to Tyrese [Maxey] first, and it was pretty emotional,” McCain said.

However, his confidence never wavered after 76ers’ Daryl Morey gave a hollow goodbye moments after trading McCain ahead of this year’s deadline.

“I allow myself to feel all the emotions. It’s natural. Give myself grace through this process,” McCain added. “But you move quick. I touched down in LA and then had to come straight here. It’s a little bit of both. It’s a balance you’ve got to work through.”

The Thunder will travel to face the Raptors on Tuesday.

The post How Thunder’s Jared McCain has thrived since 76ers GM Daryl Morey’s ‘sold high’ remark appeared first on ClutchPoints.

After the game, Maxey spoke on his relationship with Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, who scored 28 points in the loss, and revealed that the two have been competing for over a decade.

Maxey said that there is “footage of us playing against Ant, I think we were in the fifth grade,” said Maxey, per Chris Hine of the Minnesota Star Tribune on Bluesky.

Maxey also described a fifth-grade Edwards as “short, chubby, and strong.”

Edwards is no longer short or chubby, but he is still one of the strongest shooting guards in the NBA today, having been one of the few Timberwolves who was able to get to his spots consistently against the 76ers on Sunday.

However, for the most part, Philadelphia did a solid job of keeping Edwards’ supporting cast in check, winning all four quarters of the game en route to a comfortable victory.

The 76ers now sit at 31-26 on the season, and have a solid chance of securing one of the top six seeds in the Eastern Conference when all is said and done. Making matters more impressive for Philadelphia is the fact that the team got this win with both Joel Embiid and Paul George out of the lineup. Embiid is currently dealing with a shin issue that flared up over the All-Star break, while George is still serving his 25-game suspension from the league for violating their substance policy.

In any case, the 76ers will next hit the floor on Tuesday evening on the road against the Indiana Pacers.

The post We need to see the footage of 76ers’ Tyrese Maxey playing ‘short, chubby, strong’ Anthony Edwards in 5th grade appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Edgecombe is halfway through the rookie campaign of his NBA career. He has made impressive strides throughout the season, making a solid case for the Rookie of the Year Award while helping Philadelphia be in the playoff race.

Edgecombe created another impressive highlight for his rookie mixtape. The play happened in the early minutes of the fourth quarter as Edgecombe fired a deep 3-pointer from the top of the key. He made it as the shot clock expired, wowing the opposing crowd in the process.

VJ Edgecombe with the handle for the CRAZY shot to beat the shot clock pic.twitter.com/tZsiG2KBOm

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 23, 2026

How VJ Edgecombe, 76ers played against Timberwolves

VJ Edgecombe enjoyed a strong performance as he helped the 76ers take down the Timberwolves in a 135-108 blowout win on the road.

Philadelphia got off to a solid start as the squad led 68-58 at halftime. They continued the momentum in the second half, torching Minnesota 67-50 in the last 24 minutes of regulation.

Four players scored in double-digits for Philadelphia in the win, including Edgecombe. He finished with a stat line of 24 points, seven rebounds, two steals, and one assist. He shot 8-of-18 from the field, including 6-of-7 from beyond the arc, and 2-of-2 from the free-throw line. Tyrese Maxey torched the nets with 39 points and eight assists, Quentin Grimes came next with 19 points and seven assists, while Kelly Oubre Jr. provided 18 points and five rebounds.

Philadelphia improved to a 31-26 record on the season, holding the sixth spot in the Eastern Conference standings. They are above the Miami Heat and the Orlando Magic while trailing the Toronto Raptors and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The 76ers will look forward to their next matchup, remaining on the road. They face the Indiana Pacers as tip-off will take place on Feb. 24 at 7 p.m. ET.

The post 76ers’ VJ Edgecombe beats shot clock with unreal shot vs. Timberwolves appeared first on ClutchPoints.

However, as per Forbes Sports’ NBA insider Adam Zagoria, Broome has been dealt a significant setback after the Philadelphia 76ers confirmed the 23-year-old center suffered a lateral meniscus tear in his right knee during a recent G League outing. The injury occurred in a loss to the Maine Celtics, cutting short a standout performance which saw him produce 27 points in just 23 minutes before exiting.

While the organization has not provided a recovery timeline, Broome is now set to consult with medical professionals “to determine the next steps of his treatment plan.” Broome has logged only 55 NBA minutes across 11 appearances with Philadelphia, scoring 10 points on 4-for-19 shooting while operating outside Nick Nurse’s primary rotation.

However, his developmental production has been impossible to ignore. Across roughly two dozen G League contests, the 6-foot-10 big man has averaged around 22 points, eight rebounds, and over three assists per game while producing 1.3 steals and 1.5 blocks per appearance.

The standout performance came back in January against the College Park Skyhawks, when Broome erupted for a whopping 50 points and 17 rebounds in a 155-140 victory, proving his immense potential. As things stand however, the focus will be on recovering quickly at a time when the 76ers are already thin in their frontcourt, especially with Embiid’s consistent troubles.

Regardless, despite the injuries, Broome has been sparingly used and last played for Philadelphia during the 138-89 blowout loss against the New York Knicks, back in early February.

The post 76ers’ Johni Broome suffered meniscus tear during G-League game appeared first on ClutchPoints.

The 76ers, in addition to the absence of Paul George, will also be without the struggling Joel Embiid, who continues his right knee injury management and is also reported to have right shin soreness. Both teams have plenty of absences to worry about, with Rudy Gobert also out with a suspension for Minnesota, per the official injury report.

Considering recent form, the Timberwolves will view this game as a must-win, with Edwards especially on an impressive scoring run of late. Even in the absence of Gobert, the 76ers may struggle to break down Minnesota, especially considering Embiid is set to miss yet another game.

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Joel Embiid injury status vs. Timberwolves

Joel Embiid has officially been ruled out for Sunday night’s matchup against Minnesota, marking his fifth consecutive absence. Philadelphia’s offense looks dramatically different without Embiid anchoring the halfcourt attack.

The Sixers enter the game at 30-26, but their recent four-game losing streak, all by double digits, has largely been down to Embiid’s absence. Of course, the 76ers have plenty of other players sitting out, with PG13 suspended and Johni Broome and MarJon Beauchamp missing as well.

The Timberwolves meanwhile have Enrique Freeman out due to G League commitments, while Naz Reid is questionable with shoulder soreness, in addition to Gobert’s suspension.

76ers injury report

Joel Embiid: Out (Right knee injury management; right shin soreness)

Paul George: Out (League suspension)

Johni Broome: Out (Right knee meniscus tear)

MarJon Beauchamp: Out (G League two-way)

Kelly Oubre Jr.: Available (Left knee injury recovery; brace)

Timberwolves injury report

Rudy Gobert: Out (League suspension)

Naz Reid: Questionable (Right shoulder soreness)

Enrique Freeman: Out (G League two-way)

Rocco Zikarsky: Available (G League two-way)

The post Is Joel Embiid playing tonight? 76ers vs. Timberwolves injury report appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Maxey is halfway through the sixth season of his NBA career with the 76ers. He made his way up the ranks to become one of the best guards in the league, helping the 76ers remain stable as playoff contenders. However, they tend to be vulnerable to upset losses, something they sustained against the Pelicans.

Maxey reflected on the loss after the game, via NBC Sports Philadelphia. He commented on how he and the team need to control the momentum from start to finish while managing through the ups and downs of the contest.

“It’s gonna take a lot. You know what I mean. As you dig yourselves a hole, only US can climb ourselves out of it. You know what I mean? Like we in this thing together? You know what I mean, through the highs, through the lows, through the peaks, through the valleys. You know what I mean? We said that since day one, and here’s what it is like. We played a really good half, then we come out there. We play good start the third, honestly. And then we got those bombs away, and they hit some shots. And you know, it’s difficult to come back from that momentum swing. We tried to swing it back, but it’s too late,” Maxey said.

"It's gonna take a lot."

Maxey expresses that only the team can dig themselves out of this hole. | @FultonBank pic.twitter.com/vHzTQ45xSt

— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) February 22, 2026

How Tyrese Maxey, 76ers played against Pelicans

Tyrese Maxey and the 76ers will be active in the playoff picture this season. However, their latest loss to the Pelicans leaves questions for them to answer moving forward.

Four players scored in double-digits for Philadelphia in the loss, including Maxey. He finished with a stat line of 27 points, seven assists, five steals, and three rebounds. He shot 9-of-23 from the field, including 2-of-11 from beyond the arc, and 7-of-8 from the free-throw line. Kelly Oubre Jr. came next with 25 points and five rebounds, VJ Edgecombe had 14 points and five rebounds, while Quentin Grimes provided 11 points and three assists.

Philadelphia improved to a 30-26 record on the season, holding the sixth spot in the Eastern Conference standings. They are above the Miami Heat and the Orlando Magic while trailing the Toronto Raptors and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Going through four consecutive losses, the 76ers will look to get back on the win column in their next matchup. They remain on the road when they face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. ET.

The post 76ers’ Tyrese Maxey drops stark reality check after loss to Pelicans appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Nurse is going through the eighth year of his head coaching career, his third with the 76ers. He has kept the franchise stable while developing its young and rising backcourt of Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe, having them be in the playoff picture this season. However, the team tends to underperform in some of their contests, especially with their latest loss to the Pelicans.

Nurse reflected on the loss after the game, via NBC Sports Philadelphia. He pointed out shooting struggles from beyond the arc, seeing how New Orleans took advantage of Philadelphia’s woes.

“We went 3-for-24 from three ourselves; that had a lot of opportunity for them to play off misses. They were like 12-for-20 or something. And I just think that we weren’t up quite enough on some of them, some of them were caused by penetration that we’re just getting beat too easy into the lane and it was a straight line drive to a straight line pass out, and we just didn’t do well enough at keeping our guy in front and then being able to get back and challenge hard enough, right?” Nurse said.

Nick Nurse breaks down where the Sixers fell short offensively and defensively in their matchup with the Pelicans. | @Kia pic.twitter.com/4fw89F9u27

— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) February 22, 2026

How Nick Nurse, 76ers performed against Pelicans

Nick Nurse and the 76ers have the talent to make noise in the playoffs. However, their loss to the Pelicans shows they still have work to do to get to that next step.

Four players scored in double-digits for Philadelphia in the loss, including Maxey. He finished with a stat line of 27 points, seven assists, five steals, and three rebounds. He shot 9-of-23 from the field, including 2-of-11 from beyond the arc, and 7-of-8 from the free-throw line. Kelly Oubre Jr. came next with 25 points and five rebounds, VJ Edgecombe had 14 points and five rebounds, while Quentin Grimes provided 11 points and three assists.

Philadelphia improved to a 30-26 record on the season, holding the sixth spot in the Eastern Conference standings. They are above the Miami Heat and the Orlando Magic while trailing the Toronto Raptors and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Going through four consecutive losses, the 76ers will look to get back on the win column in their next matchup. They remain on the road when they face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. ET.

The post Nick Nurse breaks down where 76ers went wrong vs. Pelicans appeared first on ClutchPoints.

With Joel Embiid sidelined, the Sixers’ glaring lack of depth was exposed on national television. The Pelicans outscored Philadelphia 60-35 in the second half, turning a competitive game into a laugher.

Tyrese Maxey did his best to keep the ship afloat with 27 points and six assists, but he had little help. Outside of Kelly Oubre Jr.’s 18 points, the roster looked hollow, especially on the glass, where they were out-rebounded 52-38.

Daryl Morey at the deadline pic.twitter.com/wTOIx01khz

— Alvin Yakitori (@AlvinYakit52962) February 22, 2026

Daryl Morey and Nick Nurse getting fired soon. pic.twitter.com/dZGVnmKV0H

— Sixers Scope (@SixersScope) February 22, 2026

Daryl Morey trading away Jared McCain for a late first rounder pic.twitter.com/ulFLYeTihA

— Kevin Rice (@TheKevinRice) February 6, 2026

sell the fucking team man josh harris and daryl morey has killed this city’s basketball spirit pic.twitter.com/LGxxW9rzPG

— rodney (@lukatroncic23) February 22, 2026

The lack of activity at the trade deadline has become a lightning rod for criticism. Fans took to social media and the Wells Fargo Center stands to let their frustrations be known.

“Trill was running the ‘Fire Morey’ chant like it was the Navy,” one fan noted on X. Another didn’t mince words, stating, “It is still absolutely malpractice the Sixers did not bring in a single player at the trade deadline. It is going to take a heroic Tyrese Maxey performance every single night for this team to win games without Joel Embiid.”

Sixers fans seeing Jared McCain flourishing after Daryl Morey said “I’m sure we sold high” when trading him away https://t.co/DtGWXMbame pic.twitter.com/4LqotjmEEb

— Underdog (@Underdog) February 21, 2026

Daryl Morey should be publicly tied up and spanked until his bums all red https://t.co/kWZl7S9wpq

— Aadan (@JMurrayWrld) February 21, 2026

Daryl Morey really is the devil https://t.co/yf4d5VQg1T

— MastaMunsta (@MunstaMasta) February 21, 2026

Trill was running the “Fire Morey” chant like it was the Navy https://t.co/H3hclXONhA

— The Unc Cost Fallacy (@NBABabySecret) February 22, 2026

FIRE DARYL MOREY

— josephine (@china3rdbaseman) February 22, 2026

The sentiment was echoed across the board, with fans questioning the job security of both Morey and owner Josh Harris. “It’s actually kind of funny how bad Daryl Morey is at his job,” a viral post read, while another frustrated fan asked, “Why is Josh Harris not in jail? And why is Daryl Morey still employed?”

The 76ers have now dropped four straight games, sliding further down the Eastern Conference standings. The overall construction of the roster around an aging and often-injured Embiid is being called into question. If Morey doesn’t find a way to patch the holes in this ship soon, the “Fire Morey” chants are only going to get louder.

The post 76ers fans demand Daryl Morey’s job after ugly loss to Pelicans appeared first on ClutchPoints.

With a momentary pause in the game right before the Pelicans were to shoot free-throws, Kelly Oubre was caught on the mic telling Scott Foster that he was a horrible ref.

“I wasn’t cursing… I said you are a horrible ref. ”

Kelly Oubre Jr. to Scott Foster pic.twitter.com/jbXEmolepa

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 22, 2026

That isn’t Oubre’s first run-in with the officials in his career. During the 2023-24 season, Oubre was fined $50,000 along with 76ers head coach Nick Nurse for an outburst after a perceived no-call during a loss to the LA Clippers. Back in 2019 when he was with the Phoenix Suns, Oubre was fined $10,000 for what was deemed inappropriate language directed towards an official.

The No. 15 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, Oubre is now in his third season with the 76ers after signing as a free agent ahead of the 2023-24 season. This season, Oubre has appeared in 33 games, including 28 starts, at a little over 32 minutes per game.

Oubre’s been averaging 14.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.3 steals with splits of 46.3 percent shooting from the field, 36 percent shooting from the 3-point line and 75.2 percent shooting from the free-throw line.

Overall, Oubre is in his 11th season in the NBA. He began his career with the Washington Wizards, and has also played for the Golden State Warriors and Charlotte Hornets.

The post Kelly Oubre drops hilarious ‘horrible ref’ quip during Pelicans clash appeared first on ClutchPoints.

However, the 76ers found the tax savings they’ve been looking for in an unexpected place. They traded Jared McCain, their first-round pick in 2024 who showed so much promise before tearing his meniscus, to the Oklahoma City Thunder for a 2026 first-round pick (from the Houston Rockets) and three second-round picks.

Now, McCain is hitting his stride for the reigning champions. On Friday night, he put up 21 points on 7-12 shooting from the field in a 105-86 win for the Thunder over the Brooklyn Nets. He starred for an OKC team that was missing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, and McCain’s emergence has given OKC more room to rest those key guys — much to the 76ers fans’ chagrin.

76ers fans cry about the loss of Jared McCain after big night for OKC

The 76ers’ decision to trade McCain was a stunning development, as it looked like he was going to be part of the team’s core for the foreseeable future considering how well he played in his rookie season.

Now, McCain is playing well for the Thunder, and 76ers fans’ hearts are broken that the man they drafted is hooping for a different team in just his sophomore campaign.

Sixers fans rn after trading Jared McCain https://t.co/50ysWG7DFf pic.twitter.com/QM3mv0TSnt

— ChillinVari (@ChillinVari) February 21, 2026

“Jared McCain playing so well shows how bad Nick Nurse is with this roster,” X user @Youdownwith_LNV wrote.

“Sixers gave Jared McCain away for practically nothing. Unserious organization,” @TimeoutSPORTS3 added.

“I was right about Jared McCain. I mean, SAM PRESTI traded for him,” @Glenjr1988 furthered.

76ers president Daryl Morey said that they were “selling high” on McCain. Only time will tell if that truly is the case. It’s not looking good for Philly at present, however.

The post Jared McCain’s monster game vs. Nets will have 76ers fans in tears appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Throughout the day, Barkley received many birthday messages. Among the first to celebrate was his 1992 Dream Team teammate, Magic Johnson.

“Happy birthday to my good friend and Dream Team teammate Charles Barkley! He’s the funniest man on TV!” Johnson posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Happy birthday to my good friend and Dream Team teammate Charles Barkley! He’s the funniest man on TV!

— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) February 20, 2026

Later, actor Samuel L. Jackson posted a video of himself and Johnson jointly wishing Barkley a Happy Birthday.

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR MAN, CHARLES BARKLEY” Jackson posted.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR MAN, CHARLES BARKLEY pic.twitter.com/RuOavhZOKc

— Samuel L. Jackson (@SamuelLJackson) February 20, 2026

Jackson appears with Barkley and Spike Lee in Capital One’s March Madness commercials.

Then, the Philadelphia 76ers, whom Barkley played for from 1984 to 1992, issued their celebratory post on Barkley’s birthday.

“a franchise and NBA legend. wishing a happy birthday to the one and only Sir Charles Barkley!”

a franchise and NBA legend.

wishing a happy birthday to the one and only Sir Charles Barkley! pic.twitter.com/WaIu6TVwKi

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) February 20, 2026

Unquestionably, Barkley is full of superlatives. Brash, controversial, beloved, unapologetic, and iconic. He was that both on and off the court. On the court, Barkley was one of the defining players of his generation. Although he never won an NBA title, he still captivated fans and contemporaries alike with explosive ferociousness.

He was a 5-time NBA All-Star, 1993 NBA MVP, 1988 rebounding champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist, Hall of Famer, and on the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.

Off the court, Barkley lets loose, especially when he is on television calling the NBA and NCAA basketball. Furthermore, he is not afraid to venture into politics and social issues.

At 63, Sir Charles remains an uquestionable icon who never ages. 

The post The NBA world wishes Charles Barkley a happy birthday appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Martin, 26, began the season with the Brooklyn Nets, appearing in 37 games with six starts. He averaged 7.3 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in 18.8 minutes per game while shooting 39.2% from the field. He scored in double figures 12 times, including a season-high 26 points on 7-of-14 shooting and 5-of-9 from three-point range against the Toronto Raptors on November 23. After clearing his January contract guarantee deadline and securing his full $2.2 million salary, Martin was waived on February 5 to create roster space for Brooklyn’s trade for Hunter Tyson.

Over the past two seasons with the Nets, Martin played in 97 games, making 17 starts and averaging 8.2 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in 20.7 minutes per game while shooting 34.6% from beyond the arc. For his three-year NBA career with the Atlanta Hawks and Brooklyn, he has appeared in 113 games, averaging 7.2 points on 40.1% shooting, along with 3.0 rebounds and 1.7 assists. He has six career 20-point performances, including a 30-point outing with eight three-pointers against the Phoenix Suns on November 27, 2024.

Originally selected 51st overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors, the Allentown, Pennsylvania native has also produced in the G League. Across 72 games with the Atlanta Skyhawks, Iowa Wolves, and Long Island Nets, Martin averaged 17.3 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 32.8 minutes, recording 25 double-doubles and 21 games of at least 20 points, including five 30-point efforts and one 40-point game.

Martin fills Philadelphia’s open two-way slot alongside MarJon Beauchamp and Dalen Terry after Jabari Walker’s elevation to the 15-man roster.

The 76ers enter the stretch run at 30-25, sixth in the Eastern Conference, looking to avoid the Play-In Tournament. With Paul George serving a 25-game suspension, Martin adds backcourt depth as the Sixers push toward the postseason.

The post 76ers sign former Nets guard to two-way deal appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Embiid has started to look more like the prime version of himself in recent weeks, hoping to recapture the form of the MVP award he won in 2022-23. Recently, the big man got 100% real on something he would trade that accolade for.

“I would honestly trade this MVP just for one healthy postseason run,” Embiid told NBA trainer Drew Hanlen, per Legion Hoops and Sideline Sources on Instagram.

Health has been a major concern for Embiid over the years, as the star has frequently gone down with or been severely limited by injuries at the worst possible time.

Embiid has largely been supplanted by young star guard Tyrese Maxey as the face of the franchise in Philadelphia, but if he were to look somewhat like hte primse version of himself in the postseason, the 76ers would be an opponent that no one would want to face off against.

Last year, the 76ers did not make it to the playoffs, largely falling apart from a health perspective down the stretch of the season, and the year prior, they were eliminated in the first round by the New York Knicks, with Embiid clearly not being anywhere close to 100% during that series.

Making matters worse in the short term for Philadelphia is the fact that Paul George is out for a few more weeks as he serves his league suspension.

However, for now, the 76ers are just hoping to have everyone in one piece by the time the playoffs roll around.

Tipoff vs the Hawks is set for 7:00 pm ET from Philadelphia.

The post 76ers’ Joel Embiid reveals one thing he would trade his MVP for appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Unfortunately, on Wednesday, the team got a rough update on Embiid for their upcoming home game against the Atlanta Hawks.

“Joel Embiid is OUT vs. Atlanta tomorrow,” reported Kyle Neubeck of PHLY Sports on X, formerly Twitter.

The 76ers reported that Embiid “reported soreness in his right shin” over the break, and that he “received daily treatment, while progressing through on-court work and strength and conditioning,” per Neubeck. The 76ers added that he will be reevaluated ahead of the team’s games this weekend.

Embiid has been in and out of the lineup all year for the 76ers as he looks to manage his chronic knee issues. Through it all, Tyrese Maxey has been playing at an All-NBA level for Philadelphia, and the team has also gotten some great contributions out of fellow guard, rookie VJ Edgecombe.

Any legit chances that the 76ers have of making noise in the Eastern Conference rise and fall with the health of Embiid, which is always a wild card, particularly toward the end of seasons. Philadelphia fans will certainly be hoping that this latest shin ailment is nothing serious.

The 76ers and Hawks are slated to tip off on Thursday at 7:00 pm ET from Philadelphia.

The post 76ers’ Joel Embiid will miss Hawks showdown with new shin injury appeared first on ClutchPoints.

And well, Drew Hanlen, widely considered to be the best skills trainer in the NBA, recently revealed details about the sheer determination Embiid has shown despite the constant injury absences.

“People didn’t realize, so the Olympics happens. Obviously, people know that he was, you know, kind of dragging himself through the Olympics, but it was a chance for him to actually win. You know, he won a gold medal. Of course, they were a loaded team, but they don’t win that, that gold medal without him in the Serbia game, you know?” Hanlen said per a post on X by ClutchPoints, referencing the Olympics semifinal which Team USA won 95-91.

"We got back in the lab. And he's like, 'I feel like myself again.' And the next game he had 39, and since then he's averaging like 30. That's how good he is."

NBA trainer Drew Hanlen on Joel Embiid looking like his old self again

(via @KevinOConnor)pic.twitter.com/HkuvvOYFl1

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 18, 2026

Hanlen revealed that Embiid simply decided to not do skill workouts after returning, instead prioritizing his health.

“After that, all the way until this season, mid-season, I think it was like December 10th, we didn’t work out one time. This is a guy that I’ve worked out more times than anybody else because he is obsessed with basketball, but he, he couldn’t work out because he was like: “You know what? I have to get my health right,” Hanlen said.

Embiid, who continues to be on a minutes restriction, effectively struggled due to a lack of basketball workout after being forced to take care of his knee. Hanlen referenced this behind-the-scenes work as one of the reasons why he struggled in the first part of the current campaign.

Drew Hanlen claims Embiid “feels like himself again.”

Hanlen went on to claim that Embiid was forced to use NBA games as a means to get back in shape, eventually deciding to grind it out like “old-school Joel.”

“And I remember at one point he was like: “Hey, I know I’m not really supposed to,” but, like, he’s like: “Come up, we gotta figure out my jump shot. My mid-range is off, which is never off. My three is off, which is never off.” And so we did a workout, one workout, and we, like, grinded, like, old school Joel, like, hour and a half, should not have probably done it, but it was like we got back in the lab, and he’s like, “I feel like myself again.” he said.

This led to him returning to his former levels, which also evidently has Hanlen convinced.

“And the next game, he had thirty-nine, and since then, he’s averaging, like, thirty. That’s how good he is,” he revealed.

With the 76ers also traversing through Paul George’s 25-game suspension, Embiid becomes even more important as they attempt to build on their current 30-24 record. The season is far from over, and despite Embiid’s latest absences, Hanlen’s claims surely give fans plenty of reason for optimism.

The post 76ers’ Joel Embiid draws honest admission from NBA trainer Drew Hanlen appeared first on ClutchPoints.

The 76ers are hoping for a healthy stretch out of Joel Embiid for the rest of the 2025-26 regular season, and recently, Edgecombe got 100% real on his relationship with the former league MVP.

“Yo, that’s my n**** dog… He cool as hell, bro. He just chill. He be in his own little world. Yo, I swear I never seen someone like really that good. I ain’t gon’ lie,” said Edgecomber, per the Club 520 Podcast on X, formerly Twitter.

Embiid has been in and out of the lineup for the 76ers all year as he attempts to manage chronic issues with his knees, which have been bothering him for the better part of his NBA career.

Meanwhile, the team also got some rough news recently when it was announced that wing Paul George would be suspended 25 games for violating the league’s banned substance policy.

With Embiid’s health always a wild card and George unable to play currently, Edgecombe and Maxey will be tasked with doing a lot of the heavy lifting down the stretch of the season for Philadelphia as they attempt to secure one of the top seeds in the Eastern Conference.

A top-four finish in the conference is not off the table for Philadelphia at this point, although they’ll want to shake off a recent 49-point loss at the hands of the New York Knicks quickly.

The 76ers will next hit the floor on Thursday evening at home against the Atlanta Hawks.

The post What 76ers’ VJ Edgecombe ‘ain’t gon’ lie’ about his ‘dog’ Joel Embiid appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Walker agreed to a two-year deal with the Sixers, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.

“The Philadelphia 76ers intend to sign forward Jabari Walker to a new two-year contract, sources tell ESPN. 76ers and Klutch Sports’ Rich Paul and Anthony Fields negotiated the new deal for Walker, who earned a rotation role after maxing out the games allowed on his two-way deal,” Charania reported.

Shortly after announcing Walker’s new deal, Cam Payne secured a deal for the rest of the season, Charania added.

“The 76ers are planning to sign Walker to the new two-year deal and veteran guard Cam Payne for the rest of the season in the coming days,” Charania added. “Payne spent part of the 2023-24 season with the 76ers.”

VJ Edgecombe’s championship aspirations with 76ers

After 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe won the MVP award at the Rising Stars game during All-Star weekend. Edgecombe won the award unanimously after scoring 23 points in two games, leading Team Vince over Team Melo in the final.

Edgecombe also declared another trophy he’d love to win for the 76ers.

“It feels great, man. It feels great, baby. For Philly, baby,” Edgecombe declared. “You know, hopefully that championship in the Rising Stars is the first I’m going to have this season.”

The Sixers will continue their regular-season schedule when they host the Hawks on Thursday.

The post 76ers rewards two-way player with two-year contract appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Joining the red, white, and blue as a 20-year-old rookie out of Baylor, Edgecombe has started all 50 games he’s appeared in alongside Tyrese Maxey and company in 2025-26, being tasked with spacing the floor, driving to the basket, and playing good defense on the other side of the court.

Discussing his early run through the NBA midway through his rookie season on Club 520 Podcast, Edgecombe broke down one particularly tough stretch of games where he was tasked with guarding some of the best players in the NBA.

“Bro, it was a stretch. I went to guard Luka, too, Curry sat out. I ain’t going to lie, I was low-key happy,” Edgecombe said. “Even though you want to compete, I was like, that ain’t too bad. I had to guard Luka, I had to guard Shai, D-Book, Brunson, I had to guard all of them, bro. So that was like my welcome to the NBA.”

So, who was the toughest player Edgecombe guarded over his “Welcome to the NBA” gauntlet? That would be Ja Morant, who dropped 40 on the 76ers despite Edgecombe’s best efforts.

“Toughest? I ain’t going to lie to you, Ja Morant bro,” Edgecombe said. “I ain’t going to lie, he had 40.”

Widely celebrated as one of the better athletes in the 2025 NBA Draft class, Edgecombe made it clear that he wanted to be a force on both ends of the court, with defense just as important to his personal game as his offensive production. Despite often being the youngest player on the court every time Nick Nurse checks him into a game, Edgecombe’s desire to play both ways has largely come to pass, with “The Generator” only getting better as his mettle gets tested night in and night out.

The post 76ers’ VJ Edgecombe drops blunt Ja Morant toughest player claim appeared first on ClutchPoints.

And well, the player himself had a pretty straightforward reason for his team’s win.

“We won because we young and turnt!” he hilariously explained, per a post on X by ClutchPoints.

Tyrese Maxey on why Team Stars won the All-Star Game

“We won because we young and turnt!”

pic.twitter.com/zwDc4xg2zQ

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 16, 2026

Team Stars won the round-robin tournament, beating Team World in the opener, falling narrowly to Team Stripes, and then dominating the championship rematch. Maxey’s best performance came in that final, where he scored nine points on 4-of-8 shooting, added three steals, and helped fuel a decisive 47–21 victory.

During his time on the floor, Team Stars outscored Team Stripes by 22 points. The second game against Team Stripes was quieter statistically, as Maxey scored two points in nearly eight minutes during a narrow 42–40 loss decided by De’Aaron Fox’s buzzer-beating three.

Still, the short 12-minute game structure meant individual production was often limited, and the scoring load was carried primarily by Anthony Edwards and Cade Cunningham. Maxey’s most influential stretch came in the title game.

He scored on multiple isolation drives, hit a deep three after forcing a turnover, and delivered a key defensive stop on Jalen Brunson that led to a teammate’s triple. His burst helped Team Stars build a 26–9 advantage midway through the contest, a gap that ultimately decided the championship.

From a broader perspective, the weekend also reinforced Maxey’s rising status around the league. He entered the break ranked sixth in the NBA in scoring at 28.9 points per game, along with 6.8 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.0 steals.

The post 76ers’ Tyrese Maxey’s simple reason for Team Stars smashing old heads – ‘Young and turnt!’ appeared first on ClutchPoints.

This was Maxey’s second All-Star nod of his career, having previously made the team back in 2024, and recently, the star got 100% real on the differences he noticed between this time and his first go around.

“I feel a lot less out of place,” Maxey said, per Gina Mizell of the Inquirer. “[Two years ago, I] was nervous. It’s your first time. You don’t know when to talk, when not to talk. Now I walk into the locker room of my team, I was the second-oldest. “I played against those guys growing up as kids, and it was really fun to be in the locker room.”

Indeed, Maxey has embraced more of a veteran role not only at the All-Star game but also on the 76ers, serving as a mentor for rookie sensation VJ Edgecombe so far this year.

Maxey and Edgecombe have combined to form one of the most explosive backcourts anywhere in the NBA, torching opposing defenses with their lightning speed and tough shot-making ability from the perimeter.

Maxey and the 76ers will be hoping that Joel Embiid is able to stay at least somewhat healthy down the stretch of the 2025-26 season, and that Paul George is able to return to form after serving out the rest of his 25-game suspension.

If those things happen, and Maxey and Edgecombe continue their torrid paces from the first half of the year, the 76ers will not be an opponent that anyone wants to see come playoff time.

The 76ers will next hit the floor on Thursday evening at home against the Atlanta Hawks.

The post 76ers’ Tyrese Maxey makes brutally honest confession about 2nd All-Star appearance appeared first on ClutchPoints.

“Cam Payne is signing a rest-of-the-season deal to join the 76ers, league sources say. It has been reported in Europe that the veteran guard is securing a buyout from Partizan Belgrade in Serbia to come back to the NBA,” Stein wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

Payne played with the 76ers during the 2023-24 season, appearing in 31 games and averaging 9.3 points per game. He was a key piece off their bench, and he continued to show it following that year when he was with the New York Knicks.

Payne has been able to keep his game sharp playing overseas, and he should be able to make some type of impact with the 76ers again. When Tyrese Maxey goes to the bench, he can come in for however many minutes they need him and get the offense going, as well as his own.

The 76ers also have other guards that Payne will be competing with for minutes, such as VJ Edgecombe and Quentin Grimes. They also traded away Jared McCain, which will give Payne a chance to fill the minutes that he had. It will be interesting to see what kind of role he has when he gets to the team, but in all, it’s good to have another guard in the rotation.

Right now, the 76ers are trying to manage most of the remainder of the season with Paul George, as he was suspended for 25 games.

The post 76ers reuniting with ex-lottery pick who made waves in 2023-24 season appeared first on ClutchPoints.

For his strong performance in the mini-tournament, Edgecombe was the runaway winner as MVP. In two games, he tallied 23 points on 8-of-13 shooting, including 6-of-7 from three-point range, and seven rebounds.

He also drained the game-winners in both games, underscoring his willingness to perform in pressure-packed moments.

Fans lauded the 20-year-old guard for his impressive showing at All-Star Weekend.

“VJ has that clutch gene that you can’t teach. When the lights are brightest, he’s at his best,” said @PhillySports_V.

“VJ just put his name next to legends,” added @iamibtaihaj08.

“We drafted Valdez Edgecombe Jr. Real tears in my eyes right now,” wrote @lukatroncic23.

“Got Vince a ring before Melo and T-Mac,” posted @SeahawksNicca, referring to Vince Carter, Carmelo Anthony, and Tracy McGrady, who were chosen as coaches of the Rising Stars, along with Austin Rivers.

“VJ Edgecombe hit the game-winner in BOTH Rising Stars games. This man chose All-Star Weekend to announce himself to the world,” commented @K1utchSzn.

Edgecombe joined Allen Iverson and Andre Iguodala as the only 76ers players to be named MVP of the Rising Stars.

“Vince, you know, he just wanted me to be aggressive the whole time. I showed him. I just tried to show him why he picked me as his first pick, which was a blessing,” said Edgecombe in the postgame conference.

"I just tried to show him why picked me as his first pick." @CastrolUSA Rising Stars MVP VJ Edgecombe on playing for Vince Carter! pic.twitter.com/ZjcAjuZolp

— NBA (@NBA) February 14, 2026

The former Baylor standout also honored Carter with a t-shirt before the Rising Stars.

Maybe the Slam Dunk Contest should be next for Edgecombe at All-Star Weekend.

The post 76ers fans celebrate VJ Edgecombe for Rising Stars MVP performance appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Taking the court for Team Vince Carter, Edgecombe hit game winner after game winner and clearly looked like the best player on the court every time he threw on a jersey, which, considering players like Derrick Queen were also participating in the event, is pretty high praise indeed.

And yet, while securing the tournament is certainly sweet for Edgecombe, as was the MVP trophy that came with it, Edgecombe wasn’t ready to rest on his laurels. No, asked about his win after the game, Edgecombe let it be known that he’s happy to secure his first championship win of the calendar year, even if he’d like to add another one to his resume in a few months’ time.

“It feels great, man. It feels great, baby. For Philly, baby,” Edgecombe declared. “You know, hopefully that championship in the Rising Stars is the first I’m going to have this season.”

On paper, Edgecombe’s confidence his warrented, both in terms of his personal performance and the quality of his team. While Daryl Morey famously didn’t add a player to his roster before the trade deadline, opting instead to move on from Jared McCain for four draft picks and Eric Gordon alongside a pick, the 76ers are still a top-6 team in the Eastern Conference and could theoretically punch their ticket to the NBA Finals for the first time in the Joel Embiid era if things break their way this spring. Considering Edgecombe ranks second on the team in minutes, it’s safe to say he will be relied on early and often to get Philly to the promised land in May and June.

“Hopefully that championship win in Castrol Rising Stars is the first I’m gonna have… This season.”

VJ Edgecombe after winning Rising Stars MVP

(via @NBA)pic.twitter.com/9qygMltJk2

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 14, 2026

The post 76ers’ VJ Edgecombe drops NBA Championship desire after Rising Stars win appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Edgecombe drained the game-winning free throws to lift Team Vince over Team Melo, 25-24, in a nail-biting affair. The first team to reach 25 points was the winner.

The 20-year-old rookie finished with six points, two rebounds, and one steal.

VJ Edgecombe wins the Castrol Rising Stars MVP for his performance over both games

23 points
7 rebounds

8-of-13 FG
6-of-7 3PT
4-of-4 FT pic.twitter.com/HTaILWr3JG

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 14, 2026

He also buried the game-winning basket in their win over Team T-Mac, 41-36, in the semifinal. It was a race to 40 points. He single-handedly took control of the game, scoring 17 points on 6-of-8 shooting. He also had five rebounds and an assist.

Before the Rising Stars, Edgecombe paid a cool tribute to NBA legend Vince Carter, who was the coach of Team Vince. It proved to be a good omen.

Edgecombe, the third overall pick, has shown that he can hold his own despite his size, utilizing his speed, quickness, and athleticism. With the NBA’s pace getting faster every year, the 6-foot-4 guard should only be more lethal as he progresses.

He will be a fixture in the 76ers’ future, along with backcourt mate Tyrese Maxey. If the Sixers, especially star center Joel Embiid, can stay healthy for the rest of the season, they will be a real problem in the Eastern Conference.

Edgecombe became the third 76ers player to be named MVP of the Rising Stars after Allen Iverson in 1997 and Andre Iguodala in 2006.

He is averaging 14.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.5 steals.

The post 76ers’ VJ Edgecombe wins Rising Stars MVP after dominant performances for Team Vince Carter appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Team Vince was first to reach 40 points, with Edgecombe hitting the game-winning jumper, setting up a date with Team Melo for the title in the mini-tournament.

VJ Edgecombe DRILLS the game winning bucket to send Team Vince to the Castrol Rising Stars Championship Game

pic.twitter.com/qbhisZGDs6

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 14, 2026

NBA legends Vince Carter, Tracy McGrady, and Carmelo Anthony were picked to coach the said squads. Ex-NBA guard Austin Rivers, meanwhile, called the shots for Team Austin, a group of players from the G League.

Before the Rising Stars, Edgecombe wore a shirt featuring Carter. He said it was only appropriate to honor the Hall of Famer.

“After he drafted me, I remembered (the shirt). I had the shirt before he picked me though. I was just, like, why not wear it? I’m saying, show love to the coach, man. To the OG,” said Edgecombe.

“Show love to the coach, man. The OG.”

VJ Edgecombe representing Vince Carter for his arrival fit @CastrolUSA Rising Stars I 9:00pm/et on Peacock pic.twitter.com/xCWpjvCbhl

— NBA (@NBA) February 14, 2026

Edgecombe is expected to carry Team Vince against Team Melo, who advanced to the final courtesy of San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper’s game-winner.

The first team to reach 25 points will take home the trophy.

The fast-paced game is perfect for the 20-year-old Edgecombe, who has been a whirling dervish in his rookie season. His backcourt duo with 76ers star Tyrese Maxey has been a thrill to watch. It’s like they were born to play alongside each other.

Some of Edgecombe’s aerial assaults were probably inspired by Carter, who had some heated battles with the 76ers during his prime, including the conference finals in 2001.

The post 76ers’ VJ Edgecombe shows love to ‘The OG’ Vince Carter before Rising Stars win appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Joel Embiid has managed to play 31 of the 76ers’ 54 games thus far, already on pace for his most active campaign in two years. Tyrese Maxey has elevated himself into elite company with MVP consideration, while VJ Edgecombe makes his own case for Rookie of the Year.

Still, there’s always work to be done from a roster-building perspective, and the 76ers looked to maximize during the 2026 trade deadline with a number of deals to ensure future success.

Philadelphia 76ers move on from Jared McCain, Eric Gordon

Second-year guard Jared McCain was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for a 2026 first-round pick and three second-round picks through 2027 and 2028. Before joining the defending champions, McCain was averaging 6.6 PPG, 2.0 RPG, and 1.7 APG with the 76ers, notably missing a chunk of his rookie year due to injury.

Considering a budding talent for the Sixers, his role has been slightly diminished with the emergence of VJ Edgecombe at the shooting guard slot, cutting into McCain’s minutes (16.8 per game) and potential. As the Oklahoma City Thunder continue to grow their depth behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the 76ers believe they could score on the draft capital in the near future.

Offloading Eric Gordon to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for a 2032 second-round pick swap was also a necessary move, freeing up space to sign two-way forward Dominick Barlow. Gordon was averaging just 12.3 minutes per game behind Maxey and Edgecombe, making him a more desirable asset for the Memphis Grizzlies, who have been active at the deadline. Overall, both moves were necessary for the 76ers to make space for future talent and capital through the draft.

76ers sign Dominick Barlow, add Dalen Terry on two-way

Dominick Barlow was elevated from his two-way contract by the 76ers, finally able to contribute full-time after averaging 8.5 PPG, 5.0 RPG, and 0.6 BPG in 43 games played. He’s notched scoring totals of 26-13-10-13 in four of his last five games, so he’ll immediately make an impact for their interior play in games where Joel Embiid may be on the bench.

The move also opened up a slot for the 76ers to sign former Chicago Bull Dalen Terry to his own two-way deal, offering a chance for them to add more depth with another forward. Terry was averaging 3.5 PPG and 1.9 RPG in his final season with the Bulls.

Final 76ers 2026 NBA Trade Deadline Grade

Overall, for how close to contention Philadelphia is in the East, they presented a rather lackluster trade deadline, perhaps already feeling confident about their team. Moving Eric Gordon was necessary as Dominick Barlow provides an immediate upgrade at the intermediate forward slot for the team with Paul George out.

While some fans may not share the same sentiment, the 76ers’ front office truly believes they sold high on Jared McCain, and they must be confident in their drafting abilities over the next two years. They’ve hit big on players like Maxey and Edgecombe in recent years, so they’re looking forward to building the roster around them and Embiid through the draft.

While they could have been more aggressive in signing a player like Ivica Zubac or Tari Eason to bolster their center position, they’re hoping to capitalize on the draft, believing they’re still 1-2 years away from contending for a title.

Overall 76ers 2026 NBA Trade Deadline Grade: C

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After the 76ers’ 49-point loss, Maxey had advice for his team, per Sixers Wire’s Ky Carlin.

“Just relax,” Maxey said. “It’s going to be a big push for us. We determine our own fate right now, and I think we feel we’re in a good position. Tonight is what it is, and we’ll be alright.”

Tyrese Maxey’s message to the #Sixers for the All-Star break: pic.twitter.com/9tnDAKmghL

— Ky Carlin (@Ky_Carlin) February 12, 2026

Tyrese Maxey finished with 32 points on 9-of-21 shooting, including three threes, and 11-for-13 from the free-throw line for the 76ers. Rookie VJ Edgecombe added 14 points, and Dominick Barlow chipped in 13 points, four rebounds, and two steals.

Jose Alvarado’s 26 points, including eight threes, and five steals off the bench led five Knicks players in double figures. Miles Bridges finished with 22 points, six assists, and two steals, and Karl-Anthony Towns added 21 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists.

Quentin Grimes talks about 76ers’ Paul George’s suspension

76ers veteran Paul George’s surprising 25-game suspension will open up playing time for his teammates, including Quentin Grimes, who addressed the recent suspension. Between the 76ers trading Jared McCain to the Thunder and George’s absence, Grimes will look to make the most of his opportunities between now and the end of the season.

Grimes addressed what George’s suspension means for his role and the rest of his 76ers teammates, he explained, per Essentially Sports’ Mark Medina.

“I’m staying ready. That was uncertain and unexpected. But that’s why I put in the work all summer and throughout the season,” said Grimes, per Mark Medina of Essentially Sports. “That way, I would stay ready for more opportunities and more shots. That’s a tough position for the team. But you have to be ready when your name is called and step up.”

Grimes and the 76ers are expected to reach a contract extension during the offseason.

The post 76ers’ Tyrese Maxey says quiet part out loud about All-Star break after 49-point loss to Knicks appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Funny enough, three of their top five wins in franchise history have come against the 76ers, with the other two being in 1994 and 1972.

In this latest game, it wasn’t the starters who led the way; it was Jose Alvarado, who finished the game with 26 points and made eight three-pointers. He also finished with five steals, which is no surprise with his nickname being Grand Theft Alvarado.

After the game, Alvarado was more focused on talking about the three-pointers than the steals.

“I always thought I was a great shooter, a good shooter. Obviously, it’s getting better, and I’m going to keep getting better,” Alvarado told MSG Network. “I’m just getting in rhythm with the system, the plays, the coaching staff. But they’re doing a great job making it super easy. Today went my way.”

The Knicks are going into the All-Star break with some momentum, and the hope is that they can come into the second half of the season with that same energy.

Currently 35-20 and third in the Eastern Conference, the Knicks have a chance to climb as high as the No. 2 seed, but they’ll have to pass the Boston Celtics, who have also played well this season.

It will be an important second half for the Knicks, but they’ve been in this position before with the same players. It will be up to Jalen Brunson to lead the way, and others such as Karl-Anthony Towns to help him in the process.

The post Where Knicks’ 49-point win over 76ers ranks among biggest in franchise history appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Initially landing in San Antonio as the ninth overall pick out of Baylor, Sochan was a major project of Greg Popovich before he transitioned out of coaching into the front office. He played minutes as a point guard in an attempt to become a Ben Simmons-style supersized guard in a positionless basketball system, found success in the full court as an athletic finisher around the hoops, and ultimately transitioned into a sparkplug off the bench for Mitch Johnson when Victor Wembanyama became the unquestioned focal point of the team.

While Sochan’s development largely plateaued between 2023-25, with the Spurs opting to use him as a deep reserve in 2025-26, there were still teams that showed an interest in his services earlier this month, even if a deal couldn’t be agreed to before the deadline passed.

Now free to sign with any team he pleases, Sochan will not only be looking for a landing spot for the remainder of the season but a potential long-term destination for 2026-27 and beyond. Will he sign with a team with clear NBA Finals aspirations? Or will he instead look for fit over Finals odds, knowing that an impressive stat line to close out the season will help his cause in free agency? Needless to say, his mid-season free agency has the potential to be fascinating.

Jeremy Sochan could finally join the New York Knicks

For a time, it looked like the Knicks were going to leave the 2026 NBA trade deadline with Sochan in their rotation, with San Antonio reportedly not interested in taking back Guerschon Yabusele as compensation due to his 2026-27 player option.

Fortunately for the Knicks, not only were they able to pivot and ultimately leave the deadline with Jose Alvarado, who torched the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night off the bench, but now, they might just be able to have their cake and eat it.

Unlike in seasons past, when Tom Thibodeau would run his starters into the ground during the regular season, the Knicks actually are far more willing to share the load under Mike Brown, with 10 players on the roster having recorded at least 600 minutes of action before the All-Star break. Of those 10 players, however, only four are natual front court players: Mikal Bridges, Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, and Mitchell Robinson, with Josh Hart having to play up as a 6-foot-5 forward at times due to the team’s sheer volume of quality backcourt options.

What kind of role would Sochan play for the Knicks? Is he good enough to guarantee himself a spot in their playoff rotation, when regular contributors like Tyler Kolek and Landry Shamet could be relegated to the bench? That remains to be seen, but he would be afforded a multi-month runway to show what he can do as a forward with some ball-handling abilities, which could then breed playoff opportunities if everything falls his way.

Could Jeremy Sochan find a long-term home with the Phoenix Suns? 

Despite having moved on from two multi-time All-Stars in Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, the Phoenix Suns would still be playoff-bound if the season ended today, with the seventh seed in the Western Conference guaranteeing the team a spot in the Play-In Tournament.

With four players who have started at least 40 games for the team in 2025-26, and a fifth, Collin Gillespie, falling just short of that mark at 34, the Suns are building a quality program that can succeed for years to come if everything shakes out in their favor.

What the Spurs don’t have, however, is a young forward who can build alongside players like Gilespie, Mark Williams, Khaman Maluach, and Devin Booker into the future, with Dillon Brooks currently 30, and Royce O’Neale the elder statesman of the group at 32. Sochan could immediately benefit from playing alongside floor generals like Booker and Gillespie, who are averaging 6.3 and 4.7 assists per game, respectively, and could form a quality two-man game with Jalen Green on the second unit when the former Houston Rockets guard is afforded a chance to run the offense.

Is Jeremy Sochan the ultimate Philadelphia 76ers reclamation project?

And last but not least, after leaving the trade deadline with just 13 players on standard NBA contracts, could the Philadelphia 76ers be the team that brings in Sochan as the ultimate high-energy guy at the four spot?

After largely looking to fill out their power forward spot with floor spacers during the Joel Embiid era, the 76ers made a conscious effort to change up their gameplan in 2025 in order to take some of the rebounding pressure off of “The Process,” signing Dominick Barlow and Jabari Walker on two-way contracts to provide rebounding and hustle on the offensive glass, especially when Tyrese Maxey is driving to the hoop.

So far, the results have been very encouraging, with Barlow earning a standard NBA contract for his efforts and Walker potentially following suit before the end of the regular season, but neither player – nor Trendon Watford, the team’s other power forward – is a particularly effective shooter when the ball lands in their hands outside of right under the basket.

While Sochan was never able to become a 3-point shooter in San Antonio, capping out at just 30.8 percent from 2023-25, he did shoot over 50 percent from the field last season, and averaged over 11 points per game over his first 184 games of professional action.

With Maxey and VJ Edgecombe a pair of highly athletic combo guards capable of doing serious damage in the open court, maybe Sochan could become a power forward who splits the difference between Watford and Barlow, all the while providing some pop in the pick and roll as both a screener and ball handler.

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On Wednesday night, the Philadelphia 76ers will hit the floor for the final time before the All-Star break for a home game against the New York Knicks. Joel Embiid is on the injury report for this one, currently listed as questionable due to right knee injury management. Here’s everything we know about Embiid’s injury situation and his playing status vs the Knicks on Wednesday.

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Joel Embiid’s playing status vs the Knicks

Given his questionable designation on the injury report, there is currently some doubt as to whether or not Joel Embiid will be able to suit up on Wednesday evening against the Knicks. Embiid has been in and out of the lineup all year as the team tries to manage his chronic knee issues, but his stats and overall production have started to pick up over the last month or so when he has been able to play.

Joining Embiid on the injury report is guard Quentin Grimes, who is also questionable due to an illness, as well as Dominick Barlow, who is questionable for the same reason. Paul George will remain out of the lineup as he serves his 25-game suspension.

Meanwhile, the Knicks have not yet submitted their injury report, as they are on the second night of a back-to-back, having lost to the Indiana Pacers at home on Tuesday night.

The 76ers have enjoyed considerable success against the Knicks so far this season, having won two games in Madison Square Garden, with rookie VJ Edgecombe seeming to save some of his best basketball for New York.

The 76ers will certainly be hoping that Embiid is able to go on Wednesday night, especially considering that the team will have a week off following this game due to the All-Star break.

In any case, the 76ers and Knicks are slated to tip off at 7:30 pm ET.

The post Joel Embiid will not play vs. Knicks in 76ers’ final game before All-Star break appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Okay, in the opinion of Daryl Morey, Philadelphia is in a better spot than the day before, as he was able to sell high on Jared McCain to the reigning and defending NBA Champions and was then able to promote Dominick Barlow to a standard NBA contract to help fill his place on the roster, but did fans really buy that? The 76ers already had a roster spot available before the trade deadline closed, and Morey was also able to trade Eric Gordon and a second-round pick to open up another one for good measure.

Considering Joel Embiid explicitly asked for the 76ers to not only keep their team together but also add extra firepower heading into the playoffs, are the 76ers really better off playing Kyle Lowry real minutes, as they did against the Portland Trail Blazers due to a Quentin Grimes illness, and having Dalen Terry on a two-way contract than when they had a Rookie of the Year finalist on the bench who could shoot the heck out of a 3-pointer?

While opinions on that question will certainly vary, it’s hard to imagine too many fans will agree with how Morey addressed the 76ers’ needs at the deadline.

But how should the 76ers have handled the trade deadline? Is there a position they should have targeted? A move they shouldn’t have made? Or one sitting right there that Morey missed? Well, while it’s impossible to know what was available at the deadline and for what kind of return they would have commanded, the 76ers decided to go light at both guard positions when they really should have added another quality player on the wings like Saddiq Bey from the New Orleans Pelicans, who checked many of the team’s boxes heading into the playoffs.

The 76ers should have traded for Saddiq Bey before the  trade deadline

On paper, it’s hard to imagine a player that 76ers fans would have liked to acquire more than Saddiq Bey.

Bey is a product of Villanova, where he played on a pair of Big East Champions from 2018-20, a double-digit scorer in each of his first seven NBA seasons, and the kind of 6-foot-8 combo forward who can play up or down rosters alongside players like Kelly Oubre, Paul George, and Barlow.

Drafted into the association by the Detroit Pistons with the 19th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, two spots before Tyrese Maxey went off the board to Philadelphia, Bey has had a remarkably similar career after a pair of seasons on the Main Line. Routinely cast as a fifth/sixth man, Bey has never averaged less than 11.6 points per game over a full season, with his career total sitting at 14.4 points per game to go with 5.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and .9 steals.

After missing all of the previous season recovering from an ACL tear, Bey silenced any doubts about what kind of player he could be for New Orleans over his first 48 games of action, averaging a career-high 16.6 points to go with 5.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and .9 steals over just 30.4 minutes of action per game. Bey has moved well on the court playing alongside a variety of other frontcourt players like Derik Queen and Zion Williamson, and has really picked things up in 2026, recording at least 30 points on three occasions, including a season-high 36 against the Memphis Grizzlies on January 23rd.

Which other teams did Bey drop 30 on? Well, that would be the Minnesota Timberwolves and the 76ers, who saw the local college product score 34 on them right before the trade deadline.

When the 76ers welcomed the Pels to town, Bey seemingly had something to prove every time he had the ball in his hands, at one point yelling something to Philadelphia’s bench after a particularly impressive shot.

What did he say? Trade for me? We may never know, but it’s not hard to see how Bey would fit on the 76ers.

On the court, Bey could be the 76ers’ fifth starter for the remainder of the season regardless of whether or not PG is available to play. He could serve as a small forward next Barlow in the short term, play power forward next to George in the long-term but either way, would fill a very clear role: knock down open 3-pointers better than Barlow, Trendon Watford, and Jabari Walker at the four spot, run in for rebounds after missed shots, and occasionally take over a random game when his team needs a spark.

On the books, Bey fits the 76ers even better. Now on his third NBA contract, Bey signed a three-year, $20 million contract with the Washington Wizards in free agency despite his injury in the summer of 2024 and is still under contract next season at just $6.4 million. That’s just $1.4 million more than Andre Drummond makes this season and in line with the two-year, $16.3 million deal the 76ers signed Oubre during his last round of free agency.

Considering Bey averages more points per game at a younger age than Oubre, that’s the kind of value most teams with three players on max contracts would kill for, especially considering the 76ers had a trade exception from last year’s KJ Martin contract he could have slid into without gaving up a sinlge player, even if Drummond likey would have been in the deal anyway for cap purposes.

Had the 76ers traded McCain for Bey, fans wouldn’t have been happy but likely would have understood the rationale, taking the team’s fourth guard and transforming him into their best power forward with upside for next season too, thanks to his age and his contract. But had the 76ers used the three second-round picks they acquired from the McCain deal – though crucially not the Rockets’ 2025 first-round pick – plus the pick they traded alongside Gordon to bring the Villanova back to the greater Delaware Valley? Now that would have been the kind of move Embiid would have been proud of, as it would have allowed the team get better now, get better in the future, and most crucially of all, prove to everyone in the 76ers sphere that this is a team worth investing in, which isn’t exactly the impression left by the actual trade deadline results.

The post 76ers’ biggest 2026 NBA trade deadline mistake appeared first on ClutchPoints.

You never know which teams will kick things into a higher gear coming out of the NBA All-Star break, but both the Philadelphia 76ers and Charlotte Hornets are surging and drawing the attention of the entire league.

The last time the Hornets won 10 straight games, Allen Iverson was leading the league in scoring, and LaMelo Ball wasn’t even two years old yet. Charlotte can possibly accomplish this feat with a win on Monday against the Detroit Pistons, which would put them on a list with the Pistons and the Oklahoma City Thunder as the only teams in the NBA this season to win at least 10 straight games.

Over their last nine games, the Hornets rank second in offensive rating and third in defensive rating, and they have outscored their opponents by an average of 12.7 points per game. It is not hard to say that Charles Lee’s team has completely flipped the script on their season and become one of the most dangerous teams in the Eastern Conference.

Maybe the Hornets aren’t real title contenders like others, but nobody, including the Pistons, New York Knicks, and Boston Celtics at the top of the East standings, will want to see this young, emerging group in a seven-game playoff series.

The Philadelphia 76ers have also been kicking things into a higher gear right before the All-Star break, as they’ve won six of their last seven games and now find themselves inside the top 10 of the NBA power rankings.

Perhaps the most notable aspect of this run for the Sixers is that star big man Joel Embiid has only missed one game during this stretch. Embiid is the key to the 76ers’ success and postseason aspirations, which is why it’s certainly good news to see him playing at an MVP-like level with a full week’s worth of rest approaching.

However, can Embiid continue this level of play for the next two months, especially regarding his overall knee health? This will be the biggest question in Philadelphia that their fans will continue to ignore and simply focus on the success they see on the court.

But overall, there is no denying that the 76ers are right behind the hierarchy of the East and certainly have a chance to make a run for home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs during the stretch run of the season. As for the Hornets, this team is playing playoff-quality basketball right now and is only three games back from the 7-seed in the East.

That is why these are the two featured teams making the biggest jump in the latest NBA power rankings.

Previous 2025-26 NBA Power Rankings: Week 15 | Week 14 | Week 13 | Week 12 | Week 11 | Week 10 | Week 9 | Week 8 | Week 7 | Week 6 | Week 5 | Week 4 | Week 3 | Week 2 | Week 1 | Week 0 (Preseason) | Offseason

1. San Antonio Spurs (+2)

2025-26 Record: 36-16 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. OKC (W10), at DAL (W12), vs. DAL (W13)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at LAL (2/10), at GSW (2/11)

With the Thunder struggling and losing for the fourth time this season to them, the San Antonio Spurs have jumped back into the pole position in the NBA power rankings. Between their physicality on defense and steady play on offense, the Spurs have cemented themselves as true title contenders in the Western Conference.

As good as Victor Wembanyama is, especially when he steals the show with his dazzling dunks or monstrous blocks, Stephon Castle has been the biggest difference for the Spurs this season. Recently, the second-year guard recorded a 40-12-12 game, becoming the youngest player to produce such a game in NBA history.

2. Oklahoma City Thunder (-1)

2025-26 Record: 40-13 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. ORL (W36), at SAS (L10), vs. HOU (L6)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at LAL (2/9), at PHX (2/11), vs. MIL (2/12)

Amid several injuries, notably to Jalen Williams, the Thunder have dropped five of their last eight games. Now, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is out through the All-Star break with an abdominal injury, which opens the door in the West.

Earlier this season, it seemed like the defending champions were far better than the rest of the league. That is something nobody is discussing now, as the Thunder’s lead for the best record in the NBA is seriously in jeopardy, especially with the Spurs just 3.5 games back of them. This is danger time for Oklahoma City before the All-Star break, as they are very vulnerable right now.

3. Detroit Pistons (-1)

2025-26 Record: 38-13 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. DEN (W3), vs. WAS (L9), vs. NYK (W38)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at CHA (2/9), at TOR (2/11)

After a shocking loss to the Washington Wizards right after the trade deadline, the Pistons responded in a huge way with a 38-point win against the New York Knicks. This team has not dropped back-to-back games in 2026, and the Pistons have ranked among the best in the league offensively since the start of the new year.

Daniss Jenkins, who has been a breakout performer for the Pistons on a two-way contract this season, recently had his deal converted to a two-year, $8 million contract, the highest single-season conversion amount for a two-way player in league history.

4. New York Knicks (+1)

2025-26 Record: 34-19 | Last Week’s Schedule: at WAS (W31), vs. DEN (W7/2OT), at DET (L38), at BOS (W22)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. IND (2/10), at PHI (2/11)

Ever since their skid at the end of December and start of January, the Knicks have been one of the hottest teams in the league. If it weren’t for their blowout loss in Detroit, this team would find itself on a 10-game winning streak right now.

Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, and Mikal Bridges have all been playing exceptionally well on offense during this stretch of success, and the Knicks have only allowed over 100 points four times in their last 10 games. If New York plays with this type of intensity on defense, it will win the Eastern Conference.

5. Denver Nuggets (-1)

2025-26 Record: 34-19 | Last Week’s Schedule: at DET (L3), at NYK (L7/2OT), at CHI (W16)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. CLE (2/9), vs. MEM (2/11)

Nikola Jokic is back for the Denver Nuggets, which is good news given how many injuries this team has dealt with all season. However, Jokic’s return has only led to someone else hitting the injury report, and this time it’s Peyton Watson.

Watson suffered a hamstring injury in the team’s double-overtime loss to the Knicks last week, and he will now miss at least a month with a hamstring strain. This is a major blow to the breakout wing and the Nuggets as a whole, especially since they are still without Aaron Gordon and Cam Johnson.

6. Boston Celtics (+3)

2025-26 Record: 34-19 | Last Week’s Schedule: at DAL (W10), at HOU (W21), vs. MIA (W2), vs. NYK (L22)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. CHI (2/11)

Will Jayson Tatum actually return to the court this season? It seems like such a decision would be rushed, even if he is cleared by medical personnel by the end of the regular season, but Tatum has been working hard and is progressing in his rehab.

The Boston Celtics’ star still doesn’t have a timetable for his eventual return, yet ESPN reported on Sunday that Tatum has started controlled 5-on-5 scrimmaging with coaches. Without Tatum, Jaylen Brown continues to play at an All-Star level, as he has scored at least 20 points in 15 straight games, including five double-doubles and a triple-double during this stretch.

7. Houston Rockets (-1)

2025-26 Record: 32-19 | Last Week’s Schedule: at IND (W4), vs. BOS (L21), vs. CHA (L10), at OKC (W6)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. LAC (2/10), vs. LAC (2/11)

Back-to-back double-digit losses to Boston and Charlotte were leading the Houston Rockets down a dark path. However, Kevin Durant and his team got back on track with a six-point win on the road against the Thunder, becoming just the fifth team this year to beat Oklahoma City on their home floor.

The Rockets have struggled over the last few weeks on offense, as they surprisingly rank 26th in offensive rating over their last eight games. On the other side of the court, Houston ranks ninth in defensive rating during this stretch.

8. Cleveland Cavaliers (+2)

2025-26 Record: 32-21 | Last Week’s Schedule: at LAC (W33), at SAC (W6)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at DEN (2/9), vs. WAS (2/11)

James Harden is the newest member of the Cleveland Cavaliers, forming a strong-looking one-two punch with Donovan Mitchell in the backcourt. Even before Harden arrived, the Cavs have been one of the hottest teams in the league, as they have now won 15 of their last 20 games and have just one loss in their last nine games.

Mitchell has been sensational this season, and he’s scored over 25 points in six of his last eight games. Cleveland is just two games back of Boston for the 3-seed in the East.

9. Los Angeles Lakers (+3)

2025-26 Record: 32-19 | Last Week’s Schedule: at BKN (W16), vs. PHI (W4), vs. GSW (W6)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. OKC (2/9), vs. SAS (2/10), vs. DAL (2/12)

Luka Doncic will miss his second straight game on Monday night against Oklahoma City due to a left hamstring injury, which will mark his 10th absence of the season. In order to qualify for end-of-season honors, the Los Angeles Lakers star must miss no more than 17 games.

The Lakers have been finding their groove on offense lately, averaging 116.9 points per game over their last eight games. Doncic and LeBron James have obviously contributed to this success, but as a team, Los Angeles is shooting 51.9 percent from the floor during this stretch, the best shooting percentage in the NBA.

10. Philadelphia 76ers (+3)

2025-26 Record: 30-22 | Last Week’s Schedule: at LAC (W15), at GSW (W19), at LAL (L4), at PHX (W6)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at POR (2/9), vs. NYK (2/11)

Since a rough stretch where they went 3-6, the 76ers have won six of their last seven games and are just 1.5 games back of the Cavs for the 4-seed in the Eastern Conference. As long as they remain healthy, the Sixers can contend not just for a top-4 spot in the East standings, but potentially a spot in the Eastern Conference championship.

However, health remains a concern for this group, as Paul George’s suspension leaves little room for error. Embiid is essential to this team’s success, and they will need him available for almost every game down the stretch to have a shot at claiming home-court advantage for the first round of the playoffs.

11. Phoenix Suns (-3)

2025-26 Record: 31-22 | Last Week’s Schedule: at POR (W5), vs. GSW (L4), vs. PHI (L6)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. DAL (2/10), vs. OKC (2/11)

Both Jalen Green and Devin Booker have missed some games lately due to injury, leaving the Phoenix Suns without their two best dynamic scorers. Even so, Dillon Brooks and Collin Gillespie have stepped up in a big way to prove that the Suns are more than just their standout guards.

Phoenix ranks inside the top 10 defensively this season, and head coach Jordan Ott has really set the tone for Suns basketball. This team is gritty, physical, and wear down their opponents for 48 minutes every night. No team will want to face the Suns come playoff time.

12. Minnesota Timberwolves (-5)

2025-26 Record: 32-22 | Last Week’s Schedule: at MEM (L9), at TOR (W2), vs. NOP (L4), vs. LAC (L19)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. ATL (2/9), vs. POR (2/11)

One week, the Minnesota Timberwolves go on a hot streak. and they rise into the top 10 of the NBA power rankings. The next week, as was illustrated in their last few games, the Wolves look like a completely different team that gives no effort and drops three games to those with a losing record.

That is why it’s really hard to view Minnesota as a legit title contender this year, and this team’s lack of effort some nights is concerning. It seems like this frustration has reached the locker room too, as Rudy Gobert recently called out some of his teammates by stating head coach Chris Finch needs to bench those not giving an effort.

13. Toronto Raptors (-2)

2025-26 Record: 32-22 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. MIN (L2), vs. CHI (W16), vs. IND (W18)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. DET (2/11)

Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram continue to pave the way to success for this growing Toronto Raptors organization, as they have now won seven of their last 10 games to move a half-game behind the Cavs for the 4-seed in the East.

The Raptors are beginning to find their form on offense, scoring at least 120 points in four of their last five games. A win over the Pistons before the All-Star break would build a lot of confidence for this group, which currently finds itself 10 games over .500 on the season.

14. Golden State Warriors (-)

2025-26 Record: 28-25 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. PHI (L19), at PHX (W4), at LAL (L6)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. MEM (2/9), vs. SAS (2/11)

Stephen Curry has missed three straight games as a result of right knee soreness, and the Golden State Warriors’ offense has been abysmal without him. However, the Warriors were able to steal a game on the road in Phoenix as a result of their defense and fast-paced transition play.

Without Curry, Golden State has no chance to win any games or be a real threat in the postseason. That is why the Warriors are making sure he is 100 percent ready to go before returning this season, and they will take a similar approach with newly acquired Kristaps Porzingis. Even with all of their ailments, the Warriors are a team nobody will want to see fully healthy in the postseason.

15. Charlotte Hornets (+2)

2025-26 Record: 25-28 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. NOP (W7), at HOU (W10), at ATL (W7)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. DET (2/9), vs. ATL (2/11)

How good are the Hornets? This team currently owns the league’s longest active win streak at nine games, and all of a sudden, Charlotte is in the play-in discussion. Gives Charles Lee a ton of credit for what he’s done with this young group, as the Hornets are one of the most exciting teams to watch in the NBA.

During their current nine-game win streak, the Hornets rank second in offensive rating and third in defensive rating. It’s not like the Hornets are beating up bad teams either, as wins over San Antonio, Philadelphia, and Houston stand out. If Charlotte can keep this momentum going in Detroit on Monday night, then look out!

16. Miami Heat (-)

2025-26 Record: 28-26 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. ATL (L12), at BOS (L2), at WAS (W31)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. UTA (2/9), at NOP (2/11)

The Miami Heat did not make a move for Giannis Antetokounmpo at the trade deadline, nor did they strike a deal for Ja Morant. In fact, this team didn’t make any moves whatsoever, and it seems like the Heat are content being a play-in tournament team yet again.

Without Tyler Herro, who continues to deal with injuries this year, Norman Powell has been Miami’s only consistent source of scoring. He alone is not enough to make the Heat a real threat, which is why this franchise is stuck in a purgatory-like state in the NBA power rankings.

17. Los Angeles Clippers (-2)

2025-26 Record: 25-27 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. PHI (L15), vs. CLE (L33), at SAC (W3), at MIN (W19)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at HOU (2/10), at HOU (2/11)

It is quite remarkable to look at the LA Clippers being just two games below .500 this year when they were 6-21 before the holidays in December. Tyronn Lue and Kawhi Leonard deserve a lot of credit for turning things around, and now the Clippers seem to have a new direction.

After trading Harden and Ivica Zubac at the deadline, the Clippers are entering a new era, one highlighted by young, dynamic talents like Darius Garland, Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, and others. Although many think this team will take a step back for the remainder of the year, the Clippers may actually be better with more depth and speed to push the pace in transition.

18. Atlanta Hawks (+1)

2025-26 Record: 26-28 | Last Week’s Schedule: at MIA (W12), vs. UTA (W2), vs. CHA (L7)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at MIN (2/9), at CHA (2/11)

As good as Jalen Johnson has been, this has been a disappointing year for the Atlanta Hawks. Dyson Daniels has not really built off his Most Improved Player campaign, and Zaccharie Risacher has yet to really emerge either. These two must be focal points alongside Johnson for the Hawks to take that next step as a franchise.

Now that Jonathan Kuminga is entering the mix, it should be interesting to see what this team looks like at full strength. Kuminga has a lot of potential and explosiveness, but is he the right fit for this team? We will soon find out after the All-Star break.

19. Orlando Magic (+1)

2025-26 Record: 27-24 | Last Week’s Schedule: at OKC (L36), vs. BKN (W20), vs. UTA (W3)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. MIL (2/9), vs. MIL (2/11)

Unfortunately, the Orlando Magic have yet to prove they are anything threatening because they haven’t been whole this entire season. When Paolo Banchero is healthy, Franz Wagner is not. When Wagner has been healthy, Jalen Suggs has not. And the cycle goes on and on and on.

Finally, Wagner is back, and the Magic’s injury report is clean, so hopefully this is the case for the remainder of the regular season. At full strength, Orlando can be a sneaky threat in the East.

20. Portland Trail Blazers (+1)

2025-26 Record: 25-28 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. PHX (L5), vs. MEM (W20), vs. MEM (W7)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. PHI (2/9), at MIN (2/11), at UTA (2/12)

The Portland Trail Blazers snapped their recent six-game losing streak, and they picked up back-to-back wins over the Memphis Grizzlies. Still, Portland seems like a lock to be one of the final teams in the West’s play-in tournament this season, and that is likely its ceiling.

However, the Blazers have proven to grow in a lot of ways this season outside of just Deni Avdija and Shaedon Sharpe. One example is second-year center Donovan Clingan, who ranks second in rebounding this season and is averaging 14.0 rebounds per game over his last 12 games, the most in the league during this span.

21. Milwaukee Bucks (+4)

2025-26 Record: 21-29 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. CHI (W16), vs. NOP (W4/OT), vs. IND (W6)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at ORL (2/9), at ORL (2/11)

Giannis is still with the Bucks past the trade deadline, which adds more drama to all the questions about his future in Milwaukee. The Bucks are in a weird spot because while they could punt this season and try to lose games, Giannis will want to come back and play, as he isn’t one to sit out games when healthy and available.

What the next few months look like in Milwaukee entering the summer is the biggest mystery in the NBA, as GM Jon Horst and his staff will need to be very creative to persuade Antetokounmpo not to leave.

22. Chicago Bulls (-4)

2025-26 Record: 24-29 | Last Week’s Schedule: at MIL (L16), at TOR (L16), vs. DEN (L16)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at BKN (2/9), at BOS (2/11)

What are the Chicago Bulls doing? Not only did this organization trade away Nikola Vucevic, Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu, and Kevin Huerter, but they got like six or seven guards for these guys and no first-round picks.

At this point, we might as well expect to see the Bulls near the bottom of the NBA power rankings moving forward. This franchise has no sense of direction, and they have been trapped in a rebuild since Michael Jordan retired in 1998.

23. Memphis Grizzlies (-)

2025-26 Record: 20-31 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. MIN (W9), at SAC (W4), at POR (L20), at POR (L7)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at GSW (2/9), at DEN (2/11)

Now that Ja Morant will finish the 2025-26 season with the Memphis Grizzlies, will they shut him down for the remainder of the season? The Grizzlies are clearly entering a rebuild, and they will focus on developing their young talents for the remainder of the season.

Do not expect to see many wins from here on out, as the Grizzlies would love to land a high lottery pick and escalate their rebuild, one that is likely to result in Morant being traded in the summer.

24. Dallas Mavericks (-2)

2025-26 Record: 19-33 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. BOS (L10), vs. SAS (L12), at SAS (L13)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at PHX (2/10), at LAL (2/12)

The Dallas Mavericks have now lost seven straight games, their longest losing streak of the season. Many more losses are coming for the Mavs, as they have hit the reset button after their failed Anthony Davis experiment.

Cooper Flagg is the future of this organization, and the Mavs now have plenty of cap space to sort through their mess in the summer.

25. Utah Jazz (+4)

2025-26 Record: 16-37 | Last Week’s Schedule: at IND (W9), at ATL (L2), at ORL (L3)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at MIA (2/9), vs. SAC (2/11)

Keep an eye on the Utah Jazz. Although they are clearly tanking and will throw games to keep their draft pick this year, the Jazz have a really strong-looking core after adding Jaren Jackson Jr. next to Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George.

In his debut against the Magic, before he was benched so the Jazz could throw the game, Jackson had 22 points, three rebounds, and three steals in 25 minutes. Jackson will fit in just fine in Will Hardy’s system.

26. New Orleans Pelicans (-)

2025-26 Record: 14-40 | Last Week’s Schedule: at CHA (L7), at MIL (L4/OT), at MIN (W4)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. SAC (2/9), vs. MIA (2/11)

Trey Murphy III is a rising star for the New Orleans Pelicans, and he proved this on Wednesday night when he had 44 points with 12 made threes in a 141-137 overtime loss to the Bucks.

Before Murphy, there had only been 13 times in league history that a player had made at least 12 threes. Stephen Curry has done so five different times, and the Pelicans’ forward added his name to this illustrious list.

27. Indiana Pacers (-3)

2025-26 Record: 13-40 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. HOU (L4), vs. UTA (L9), at MIL (L6), at TOR (L18)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at NYK (2/10), at BKN (2/11)

The Indiana Pacers aren’t “bad” this season. Well, they kind of are, but the fact of the matter is that the Pacers have dealt with a lot of injuries, and without Tyrese Haliburton, they have lost a lot of games late in the fourth quarter.

Looking ahead, there is a lot to like about the Pacers’ chances of regaining relevance during the 2026-27 season, especially now that they have their long-term center in Ivica Zubac. He will fit in perfectly as a double-double machine who can elevate the Pacers’ defense.

28. Brooklyn Nets (-)

2025-26 Record: 14-37 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. LAL (L16), at ORL (L20), vs. WAS (W14)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: vs. CHI (2/9), vs. IND (2/11)

Now that Cam Thomas is gone, the Brooklyn Nets will continue to let Michael Porter Jr. perform at his All-Star level, while also giving elevated opportunities to breakout rookie guard Egor Demin.

It is clear that the little spurt of success the Nets had in December was simply a glimpse into the future of this franchise. For the remainder of the 2025-26 season, Jordi Fernandez’s job is keep developing his youthful talents while also only winning a few more games to maintain draft position.

29. Washington Wizards (-2)

2025-26 Record: 14-38 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. NYK (L31), at DET (W9), at BKN (L14), vs. MIA (L31)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at CLE (2/11)

Trading for Trae Young and Anthony Davis were two fantastic moves by the Washington Wizards, simply because they gave up nothing of value. With these two stars and plenty of young, athletic talents on their roster, it’s not hard to believe that the Wizards can become threats in the East next season.

As far as this season goes, the Wizards have been very competitive as of late, winning four of their last eight games, with wins over Detroit and Portland in this stretch.

30. Sacramento Kings (-2)

2025-26 Record: 12-42 | Last Week’s Schedule: vs. MEM (L4), vs. LAC (L3), vs. CLE (L6)

Upcoming Week’s Schedule: at NOP (2/9), at UTA (2/11)

The Sacramento Kings are what their record says: bad.

At this point, the Kings need to shut down Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Domantas Sabonis for the rest of the season, as this organization literally has no incentive to win any more games.

Doing so would simply cost this franchise draft lottery odds, which is something they cannot afford since the Kings need a lot of good luck to avoid a four-to-five-year rebuild.

The post ClutchPoints’ 2025-26 NBA Power Rankings Week 16: 76ers, Hornets becoming real threats in East appeared first on ClutchPoints.

In the wake of George’s suspension, some players have had to step up into bigger roles, including Quentin Grimes, who recently got 100% real on his reaction to the news.

“I’m staying ready. That was uncertain and unexpected. But that’s why I put in the work all summer and throughout the season,” said Grimes, per Mark Medina of Essentially Sports. “That way I would stay ready for more opportunities and more shots. That’s a tough position for the team. But you have to be ready when your name is called and step up.”

Grimes has had a bit of a rough season for the 76ers this year after his breakout stretch to close out the 2024-25 campaign, but his teammates are certainly not giving up on him.

“We’re going to get to a point where he’s really going to take off,” said center Joel Embiid. “I think a lot of it his confidence. I know that he hasn’t been playing as well as he wishes. But I think there will be a point in time where he’s really going to take off.”

Grimes is still a certified threat from beyond the arc whom teams have to pay attention to on defense, even if his shots aren’t falling as often as he’d like.

This naturally provides more space for Embiid and 76ers star Tyrese Maxey to operate on offense, which is key to making Philadelphia as difficult to defend as possible.

In any case, the 76ers will hope that George doesn’t miss a beat when he returns from his suspension later on this season.

The post 76ers’ Quentin Grimes gets 100% real on increased role after Paul George suspension appeared first on ClutchPoints.

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Joel Embiid injury status vs. Blazers

Given that Joel Embiid is questionable on the injury report, it’s difficult to gauge whether he’ll be suiting up or not. Embiid has been a fixture on the injury report these days, which could evolve into him playing agianst the Blazers. Considering his questionable status for Monday’s game, Embiid could turn out to be a game-time decision. 

Ahead of the final two games before the All-Star break, the 76ers could elect to sit him for Monday’s matchup. The 76ers will host the Knicks on Wednesday, which will be their final game before the break. If Embiid doesn’t face the Blazers, Wednesday’s matchup will be his next opportunity to suit up for Philly.

The 76ers have won six of their last seven games, including victories against the Phoenix Suns, the Golden State Warriors, and the Los Angeles Clippers amid their four-game road trip. At the same time, the Blazers are hoping to extend their winning streak to three, coming off a pair of wins against the Grizzlies without All-Star Deni Avdija.

Avdija is on the verge of missing his fifth consecutive game for the Blazers. Still, he could make a return for Monday’s matchup against the 76ers. Is Deni Avdija playing tonight vs. the 76ers has a 50/50 response in terms of his chances of making a return from his back injury.

As for the question is Joel Embiid playing tonight vs. Blazers, the answer is maybe.

76ers injury report

Joel Embiid — Questionable — Right knee injury management

Paul George — Out — League suspension

Kelly Oubre Jr. — Available — Left knee injury recovery; brace

Blazers injury report

Deni Avdija — Questionable — Low back strain

Scoot Henderson — Probable — Left hamstring strain injury management

Damian Lillard — Out — Left Achilles tendon; injury management

Kris Murray — Out — Lumbar strain

Shaedon Sharpe — Out — Left calf soreness

Matisse Thybulle — Out — Right knee tendinopathy

Robert Williams III — Questionable — Left knee; injury management

The post Are Joel Embiid, Deni Avdija playing tonight? 76ers vs. Blazers injury report appeared first on ClutchPoints.

The 76ers took the win, and Embiid finished the game with 33 points and nine rebounds. The one complaint from many who have talked about Embiid is his flopping, and Dillon Brooks didn’t shy away from it. After the game, he was asked about what it was like guarding Embiid.

“I can guard the flopping and all that. Went to the line 13 times. It’s a lot, especially for stuff that’s not even a shooting foul. It’s a great crew of refs that were reffing the game for Philly tonight,” Brooks said.

“I can guard the flopping and all that. Went to the line 13 times. It’s a lot, especially for stuff that’s not even a shooting foul. It’s a great crew of refs that were reffing the game for Philly tonight.”

Dillon Brooks speaks on what it was like guarding Joel Embiid tonight … pic.twitter.com/a2R2N66oiA

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 8, 2026

Just about a week ago, Sacramento Kings analyst Kayte Christensen spoke about Embiid’s flopping and didn’t seem to be a fan of how he was playing the game.

“I think sometimes there’s a little bit of flopping going on… throwing yourself into a defender and getting the benefit of a whistle, you’re too good for that,” Christensen said.

Unfortunately, Embiid has been playing that way since he came into the league, and honestly, it could be a reason why he seems to be injured often.

The referees still have not found a way to call the flopping, because he usually gets away with it more times than not. In Embiid’s case, whatever he’s doing on the court is working, so he’s not going to stop.

Brooks can feel justified in his comments after the game because he probably isn’t the only person who thinks that way, and if you have to guard him, you just have to be prepared for what’s going to happen.

The post Suns’ Dillon Brooks calls out ‘flopper’ Joel Embiid appeared first on ClutchPoints.

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Devin Booker injury update

After Suns forward Devin Booker made his fifth All-Star selection, he is hoping to play in his first game since January 23. While Booker’s upgraded status from out to questionable is encouraging, it’s difficult to predict if he’ll be suiting up in Saturday’s matchup against the 76ers.

Amidst another All-Star campaign, Booker is averaging 25.4 points on 45.6% shooting, 6.2 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game this season. The Suns have won four of their last six games, improving to 31-21, which is the seventh-best record in the Western Conference.

As for the question of whether Devin Booker is playing tonight against the 76ers, the answer is maybe.

Joel Embiid injury update

76ers veteran Joel Embiid finished with 25 points, seven rebounds, seven assists, two blocks, and one steal in a 119-115 win against the Lakers. The 76ers won four consecutive games before losing two straight heading into Saturday’s matchup against the Suns.

In his first two games in February, Embiid is averaging a combined 29.5 points on 55.3% shooting, including 2-for-4 from deep, 6.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.0 blocks. He led the 76ers to a 128-113 win against the Clippers.

However, when it comes to the question of whether Joel Embiid is playing tonight vs. the Suns, the answer is maybe.

Suns injury update

Allen Grayson — Out — Right knee sprain

Devin Booker — Questionable — Right ankle sprain

Jalen Green — Questionable — Right hamstring strain; injury management; left hip contusion

Isaiah Livers — Out — Left shoulder strain

76ers injury update

Joel Embiid — Quesitonable — Right knee; injury management

Paul George — Out — League suspension

Kelly Oubre Jr. — Left knee injury; injury recovery

The post Are Devin Booker, Joel Embiid playing tonight? 76ers vs. Suns injury report appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Lowry would be on the “NBA on Prime” broadcast, where Taylor Rooks would ask about how the team is dealing with the trade of McCain. The 39-year-old point guard would speak on how it’s a “tough situation,” and the value he has as the team got a first-round pick and three second-round picks.

“Jared is, like, one of the most lovable guys out there,” Lowry said about McCain recently. “The trade deadline sucks for individuals like him because he’s an asset…I told him, basically, ‘Listen, a team wanted to give up that much for you, that means you’re worth something…’ We just miss him; he’s always laughing, he’s always joking, he does TikToks when we’re not looking. And then posting them. He’s just a great kid.”

"It's a tough situation… Jared is like one of the most lovable guys out there… He's always laughing. He's always joking. He does TikToks when we're not looking… He's a great kid."

Kyle Lowry on Jared McCain getting traded

(via @NBAonPrime)pic.twitter.com/Qm66SydhlL

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 7, 2026

Kyle Lowry on how 76ers are dealing internally with Jared McCain trade 

With McCain sending his goodbyes to the 76ers after playing 60 games for the franchise over the past two seasons, he now takes his talents to the defending champions in the Thunder. Though there’s no doubt that the connection built within Philadelphia will always be there.

“So internally, we’re dealing with it. We understand the business of basketball,” Lowry said. “So for me personally, you know, I told him, ‘Listen, I’m big brother. No matter what, no matter what team, what uniform you have on, what city you’re in, give me a call.’ And I think we had such a tight-knit crew that, you know, we’ll still be in touch with him. And I know he’s looking forward to, you know, seeing us whenever they come into town.”

At any rate, McCain returns to Philadelphia with Oklahoma City when the two teams face off on March 23.

The post Jared McCain 76ers-Thunder trade draws honest Kyle Lowry admission appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Now sure, most of what Morey said was obvious; he didn’t see a needle-moving move, that the team will be active in the buy-out market, etc, but one note above the others stood out to many: the 76ers sold high on McCain.

“I’m quite confident we were selling high. Obviously, time will tell, but the only other high point, and we weren’t looking to sell, I’ll be frank,” Morey said. “Teams came to us with aggressive offers for him, and you could say, yeah, that’s because he’s a good player. I agree with that. We thought this return was above, for the future value for our franchise, what we could get. So the only higher point would have been during his run last season. But otherwise, we feel like we did time this well.”

“I’m quite confident we were selling high. Obviously time will tell… Teams came to us with aggressive offers for him.”

— Daryl Morey on the Sixers trading Jared McCain to the Thunder at the deadline

(via @NBCSPhilly)pic.twitter.com/j2syfjCtOC

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 6, 2026

Understandably, this quote caught the attention of fans across the association, including in Oklahoma City, where McCain himself was asked if Morey was correct. While he didn’t go too in-depth with his response, his admission regarding the trade conversation with Morey doesn’t paint a very flattering picture of the President of Basketball Operations.

“Yeah, I mean, I didn’t get to talk to him much at all when he called me, so I don’t know,” McCain said.

Locked in as the 76ers’ fourth guard for the foreseeable future behind Tyrese Maxey, rookie VJ Edgecombe, and Quentin Grimes, McCain’s ceiling in Philadelphia may never have been higher than in February of 2026 if he continued to play occasional bench minutes in injury situations. Now, he’ll join a Thunder team without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the next few weeks and potentially improve his stock even more before a long and healthy playoff run, a situation that could make Morey’s words look really bad in relatively short order.

Jared McCain on Daryl Morey saying he’s confident the Sixers sold high on him at the trade deadline: “I didn’t get to talk to him much at all.” pic.twitter.com/hxHauigU7K

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) February 6, 2026

The post How Jared McCain feels about 76ers GM Daryl Morey’s ‘confident’ take on selling high appeared first on ClutchPoints.

For Morey, the 76ers are a team that can still compete with the Eastern Conference’s upper echelon, he said, per ESPN.

“We like our chances in the East. We feel like we’re in the mix with the top teams there, obviously, we have to prove that on the court,” Morey said. “I’m just reiterating. We were hoping to add, but we didn’t add. But we still believe in this team. It’s still the team that people believe in. Folks have speculated on the improvements of our East competitors.

“I don’t see it, personally. I think all the teams made moves at the deadline. But there weren’t any needle movers in my opinion.”

Daryl Morey says there weren’t any ‘needle movers’ involved in any Eastern Conference trades at the deadline

“Folks have speculated on the improvements of our East competitors, I don't see it personally… There weren’t any needle movers in my opinion.”pic.twitter.com/EnFNTV83V6

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 6, 2026

76ers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey’s comments come on the heels of the Cleveland Cavs’ trade for future Hall of Fame guard James Harden and the Boston Celtics’ acquisition of Nikola Vucevic from the Los Angeles Clippers, among others. The Celtics traded their sixth man of the year candidate, Anfernee Simons, to the Bulls in exchange for Vucevic.

The Cavs sent Darius Garland to the Clippers, while adding guards Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder from the Sacramento Kings in a separate deal for De’Andre Hunter. The 76ers, 29-22, have the sixth-best record, trailing the Toronto Raptors by 1.0 game for fifth-place in the Eastern Conference.

Jared McCain posts heartfelt goodbye for 76ers

While his trade to the Thunder came as a shock, Jared McCain thanks the 76ers and their fans in a heartfelt farewell message.

McCain addressed fans in Philadelphia in his Instagram post.

“Philly, I’m so grateful for everything, the love the city showed, my teammates and staff becoming family. It will always be a home for me and incredibly blessed to be drafted here. So much more to say but just want to say thank you, Philadelphia ,” McCain wrote.

View this post on Instagram

In his first media availability with Thunder reporters since the trade, a reporter asked McCain if he saw his trade from the 76ers coming.

“No, not at all,” McCain said. “We were all on the bus to the airport, and I just got a call. I had no feeling. I didn’t think it was going to happen, to be honest. There was nothing, and I got the call, and just went and told everybody. I went to Tyrese [Maxey] first, and it was pretty emotional.”

No official word on whether McCain will make his Thunder debut in Saturday’s matchup against the Rockets.

The post 76ers Daryl Morey’s ‘needle movers’ declaration will have fans rolling their eyes appeared first on ClutchPoints.

McCain returned to the Thunder practice facility for the first time since his draft workout on Friday. During his first media availability since his move, a reporter asked whether he first learned about Wednesday’s trade from the 76ers before it was announced, per The Oklahoman’s Justin Martinez.

“No, not at all,” McCain said. “We were all on the bus to the airport, and I just got a call. I had no feeling. I didn’t think it was going to happen, to be honest. There was nothing, and I got the call, and just went and told everybody. I went to Tyrese [Maxey] first, and it was pretty emotional.”

For McCain, it’s been an emotional transition from the 76ers to the Thunder. However, he’s confident that processing the trade won’t take long, and he’ll make his Thunder debut.

“I allow myself to feel all the emotions. It’s natural. Give myself grace through this process,” McCain added. “But you move quick. I touched down in LA and then had to come straight here. It’s a little bit of both. It’s a balance you’ve got to work through. I’m definitely still going through it, and still trying to cope with it.”

Here’s Jared McCain speaking to the media for the first time as a Thunder player pic.twitter.com/NC1yu5xJoC

— Justin Martinez (@Justintohoops) February 6, 2026

Daigneault says he’s unsure if McCain will make his Thunder debut in Saturday’s matinee against the Rockets.

Jared McCain’s positive approach to Thunder tenure

The Thunder acquired Jared McCain for four draft picks, including a 2026 first-round pick, and three future second-round picks that are headed to the 76ers between now and 2028. Amid an injury-riddled sophomore season, with most of his setbacks in the rearview mirror ahead of his first game as a member of the Thunder, McCain says he’s gone through many obstacles in his first two NBA seasons, but wouldn’t trade it for anything else.

“I’ve had a lot of experience in a small amount of time,” McCain said. “I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. I’ve gone through the highs and lows. And there’s going to be more to come. Just trying to stay even and trying to stick with it. Stick with it. Just continue to work hard, and just know that it’s all going to come together. I would summarize, I think it’s been amazing. My life is amazing. I get to play basketball and get paid to do it.

“So, I try to keep that in perspective at all times when there’s obviously little things that are going to happen that definitely could mess up that. You just gotta stay even and try to talk with your family, talk with the people around you that you care most about,” McCain concluded.

McCain says he and 76ers GM Daryl Morey “didn’t talk much at all” when he received the phone call about his trade. The Thunder will host the Rockets on Saturday.

The post Thunder’s Jared McCain feeling ‘all emotions’ after 76ers trade appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Now granted, the 76ers have held an empty roster spot all season long, and could have signed Barlow at any point after he looked like a certified player for Nick Nurse, but Philadelphia made sure it was known that converting Barlow was their top priority at the deadline and in their game against the Los Angeles Lakers, the Overtime Elite product vindicated that decision right away.

Taking the court in his usual starting power forward spot, Barlow was a two-way force for Philadelphia, scoring 13 points over 26 minutes to go with a block, two steals, and three rebounds. Barlow flew up and down the court as a full-court weapon for Tyrese Maxey and company, and when the ball came his way around the bucket, he made sure to come down with points more often than not.

Considering the 76ers not only lost the game but are widely considered losers of the trade deadline, it’s safe to say Barlow’s efforts provided the lone silver lining to an otherwise disappointing day.

A true success story of Daryl Morey’s scouting department, the 76ers famously only promised Barlow one thing before signing his two-way contract: if he brought effort, he would play. Fast forward to February, and Barlow has not only brought the effort but has taken it all the way to the bank, as he’s now on a full-time NBA contract once more and looks like a serious piece for the 76ers for years to come.

The post 76ers’ Dominick Barlow makes immediate impact vs. Lakers after signing new contract appeared first on ClutchPoints.

McCain saw his stint with the 76ers come to a close after two seasons, seeing Philadelphia sent him to Oklahoma City in exchange for draft compensation. He garnered serious attention with strong performances as a rookie before suffering a season-ending MCL injury.

His return to form remains a work in progress this season, not having the same efficiency he had last year. Even though Philadelphia departs from its standout guard, McCain made a post on social media thanking the community for the appreciation they gave him.

“Philly, im so grateful for everything, the love the city showed, my teammates and staff becoming family. It will always be a home for me and incredibly blessed to be drafted here. So much more to say but just want to say thank you Philadelphia ,” McCain wrote.

What’s next for 76ers after trading Jared McCain

Jared McCain will look forward to the next chapter of his career with the Thunder, moving on from the 76ers after two years.

McCain displayed a willingness to score the ball prior to the injury, being a microwave off the bench. Throughout 60 total appearances, he averaged 10 points, 2.2 rebounds and two assists per game throughout his time in Philadelphia. Oklahoma City will look forward to getting back on the right track with his development prior to the injury.

Philadelphia has a 29-21 record on the season, holding the sixth spot in the Eastern Conference standings. They are above the Orlando Magic and the Miami Heat. However, they trail the Toronto Raptors and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Following their Feb. 5 matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers, the 76ers remain on the road for their next contest. They take on the Phoenix Suns as tip-off will commence on Feb. 7 at 9 p.m. ET.

The post Jared McCain pens heartfelt farewell message after 76ers’ trade to Thunder appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Following the deal Wednesday, Maxey explained that the move struck a personal chord because it marked the end of his first meaningful veteran-rookie relationship. Gina Mizell of The Philadelphia Inquirer shared Maxey’s comments on BlueSky after speaking with him at shootaround Thursday.

“Howdy from Sixers shootaround, where we just spoke to Tyrese Maxey about the Jared McCain trade. He said the team was on the bus when it broke yesterday, and that it was emotional for him because it was his first rookie-vet relationship.”

The 76ers agreed to send McCain to Oklahoma City in exchange for a 2026 first-round pick and three second-round selections. The framework later expanded into a three-team deal involving the Chicago Bulls and Charlotte Hornets, according to ClutchPoints NBA insider Brett Siegel.

“Bulls get Dieng along with Collin Sexton, while Mike Conley and Coby White go to Charlotte with three second-round picks,” Siegel reported. He also noted that “the Thunder make this work by moving Dieng for Plumlee, waive Plumlee, and then finalize the trade for Jared McCain.”

Howdy from Sixers shootaround, where we just spoke to Tyrese Maxey about the Jared McCain trade. He said the team was on the bus when it broke yesterday, and that it was emotional for him because it was his first rookie-vet relationship.

— Gina Mizell (@ginamizell.bsky.social) 2026-02-05T18:09:12.380Z

McCain, 21, was selected No. 16 overall in the 2024 NBA Draft and made an immediate impression during his rookie season. He emerged early as a frontrunner for Rookie of the Year before tearing his UCL, an injury that abruptly ended his campaign during an injury-plagued season for Philadelphia.

Jared McCain trade to Thunder hits home for Tyrese Maxey, 76ers

Despite the promising start to his career, McCain has struggled to replicate that level of production in his sophomore season. He is averaging 6.6 points, two rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game while shooting 38.5 percent from the field and 37.8 percent from three-point range across 37 games, including one start, while playing 16.8 minutes per contest.

That output marks a notable dip from his rookie numbers. Last season, McCain averaged 15.3 points, 2.6 assists, and 2.4 rebounds per game while shooting 46 percent from the field and 38.3 percent from beyond the arc. He appeared in 23 games with eight starts, logging 25.7 minutes per game as the 76ers navigated a season defined by injuries throughout the roster.

For Maxey, the trade represented more than a shift in personnel or draft capital. As one of the team’s established leaders, he had taken McCain under his wing, making the move a reminder of the business realities that come with life in the NBA.

Philadelphia, now 29-21, continues its season Thursday night with a road matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers (30-19) at 10 p.m. ET. Oklahoma City, meanwhile, sits at 40-12 and will look to rebound from a 116-106 loss to the San Antonio Spurs when it hosts the Houston Rockets (31-18) on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC.

The post Why 76ers star Tyrese Maxey got so emotional after Jared McCain trade to Thunder appeared first on ClutchPoints.

“The Philadelphia 76ers are trading Eric Gordon and a 2032 second-round pick swap to the Memphis Grizzlies, sources tell ESPN,” reported ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania on X, formerly Twitter.

Charania also noted what the 76ers’ line of thinking was with this move.

“This gives the 76ers the flexibility to complete conversion of two-way Dominick Barlow,” reported Charania.

Gordon has played sparingly for the 76ers so far this year, finding himself well below several other guards in the rotation, including rookie standout VJ Edgecombe.

Meanwhile, as Charania noted, Barlow has been a revelation for the 76ers this year, having turned into a legitimate rotation player for head coach Nick Nurse and putting together some big minutes, especially in games that Joel Embiid has been forced to sit out due to injury.

Converting Barlow to a standard NBA contract was a move that many anticipated might happen, considering his solid play, and it appears that Gordon was a casualty of that move.

It remains to be seen whether or not the 76ers will look to make any other moves prior to the deadline, which is set for Thursday at 3:00 pm ET.

In any case, the 76ers will next take the floor on Thursday vs the Los Angeles Lakers on the road.

The post 76ers trade Eric Gordon to Grizzlies to upgrade contract of breakout star appeared first on ClutchPoints.

“Justin Edwards and VJ Edgecombe posted Instagram stories of Jared McCain. Edwards recently raved to me about McCain, his 2024 rookie classmate. Edgecombe has known him dating back to when McCain hosted his visit at Duke,” Aaronson wrote on X.

In addition to the Edwards and Edgecombe tributes, Aaronson also posted more from others who played with McCain.

Adding to the list of Jared McCain tributes on Instagram: Tyrese Maxey, Kelly Oubre Jr., Johni Broome, Dominick Barlow… https://t.co/lYVFwI0Ebx pic.twitter.com/QPzDSdFS19

— Adam Aaronson (@SixersAdam) February 4, 2026

More from Trendon Watford and Jabari Walker: https://t.co/QRMSvM3VtB pic.twitter.com/uSWiunG8FH

— Adam Aaronson (@SixersAdam) February 4, 2026

https://t.co/x0uvyAVYq7 pic.twitter.com/h7gHvsmP3f

— Adam Aaronson (@SixersAdam) February 5, 2026

The 76ers’ trade of McCain netted them a 2026 first-round pick from the Houston Rockets, a 2027 second-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick from the Milwaukee Bucks, and a 2028 second-round pick from the Thunder. In addition to tributes from his teammates, McCain also posted about his new team, while also honoring his old team.

Jared McCain on Instagram: pic.twitter.com/tfHEw3wZw9

— Adam Aaronson (@SixersAdam) February 5, 2026

McCain has played well for the 76ers, averaging 10.1 points per game while shooting 41.7% from the field, including 36.3% from the triples. Ultimately, he was a solid player off the bench and was coming into his own after struggling to start the season. McCain had a brilliant rookie season, averaging 15.3 points per game. While his fall from grace has been alarming, it did not affect how his teammates felt about him.

McCain will now join the defending champion Thunder. Now, he will act as one of the backup point guards to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Being in this role will allow him to grow while also playing with an elite team. Currently, there is no telling when McCain will make his Thunder debut. But there is a chance he could make his debut Saturday against the Houston Rockets.

The post Jared McCain’s old teammates flock to IG with tributes after surprise 76ers trade to Thunder appeared first on ClutchPoints.

“BREAKING: The Philadelphia 76ers are trading guard Jared McCain to the Oklahoma City Thunder for a 2026 Rockets first-round pick and three second-round picks, sources tell ESPN,” reported Charania on X, formerly Twitter.

McCain was a former 2024 first round pick of the 76ers who got off to a great start to his first season in the NBA and was on pace to win the Rookie of the Year award last season before ultimately going down for the season with a shoulder injury.

This season, McCain has returned from the injury, but has struggled to find minutes in head coach Nick Nurse’s rotation, thanks in large part to the emergence of rookie VJ Edgecombe.

Meanwhile, the Thunder get another young guard to add to their seemingly never-ending rotation of elite two-way players, and McCain figures to provide a much-needed dose of outside shooting to a Thunder team that has had a propensity to go cold at times so far this season.

ClutchPoints NBA insider Brett Siegel also reported on X that, “In addition to the Thunder trading a 2026 first and three seconds to the 76ers for Jared McCain, OKC is also finalizing a deal to send (Ousmane) Dieng to the Hornets for Mason Plumlee.”

That deal was later revealed to be a part of a three-team trade that also involved the Charlotte Hornets.

“Bulls get Dieng along with Collin Sexton, while Mike Conley and Coby White go to Charlotte with three second-round picks,” reported Siegel, who also noted that “the Thunder make this work by moving Dieng for Plumlee, waive Plumlee, and then finalize the trade for Jared McCain.”

Overall, it was an interesting move that will give the 76ers some extra draft capital moving forward and the Thunder another piece ready to contribute right away.

The post Thunder acquire Jared McCain from 76ers in trade that involves 4 draft picks appeared first on ClutchPoints.

There has been zero indication that the Clippers are entertaining Kawhi Leonard trade talks, but the idea that was floated around was Paul George and the Clippers’ own 2028 first round pick, as per Tony Jones of The Athletic. Jones makes it clear that discussions between the 76ers and Clippers regarding Leonard have not taken place, but that it’s a suggestion if the 76ers are keen on potentially making a huge splash at the deadline.

Another scenario that Jones floats around is the 76ers offering Andre Drummond, Quentin Grimes and draft capital to the New Orleans Pelicans for Herb Jones.

As far as the first suggested scenario, it’s difficult to envision the Clippers agreeing to a reunion with George. Not to mention that George is currently suspended for 25 games for violating the league’s anti-drug policy. That and the fact that Leonard doesn’t appear to be on the table in regards to a trade. But James Harden wasn’t rumored to be on the block and look what happened there.

Leonard would certainly vault the 76ers into the upper echelon of the Eastern Conference. Presently, the 76ers are 29-21 and in sixth place in the East standings. A potential Leonard addition arguably vaults them into contender status.

Leonard as appeared in 36 games this season, at a little over 32 minutes per game. He’s been averaging a career-high 27.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 2.1 steals with splits of 49.7 percent shooting from the field, 39.1 percent shooting from the 3-point line and 91.3 percent shooting from the free-throw line.

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Embiid made it clear he does not expect to play on back-to-back nights too often (or perhaps at all), and the squad will stick to the plan in the Bay Area. The 2023 All-NBA First-Team selection and three All-Defensive Second-Teamer will sit out due to right knee injury management. Dubs legend Stephen Curry will also be sidelined for the matchup, so perhaps the 76ers can rise above Embiid’s absence.

While Paul George’s 25-game suspension is obviously a big blow to the team, management is not going to let this unforeseen setback affect how it handles its difference-making center. Embiid’s long-term status is integral to the franchise’s postseason ambitions. The 31-year-old may never be able to carry a large workload again — has played in only 29 of 49 games this season — but he can still propel Philly forward if he is active for the playoffs.

The Sixers (28-21) will accept a lower seeding if it means they have Joel Embiid when it matters most. He certainly appears to be fresh at the moment. The two-time scoring champion averaged 29.7 points, 8.4 rebounds and 4.6 assists while shooting 53.7 percent from the field and 36.2 percent from 3-point range in 14 January games.

He will watch on from the bench inside Chase Center and try to come back strong for Thursday’s face-off with the Los Angeles Lakers (29-19).

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The league posted the video to its official X (formerly known as Twitter), showcasing the 76ers guard rising through traffic and finishing emphatically over John Collins with the left hand.

“QUENTIN GRIMES. ONE-HANDED POSTER SLAM ”

QUENTIN GRIMES.

ONE-HANDED POSTER SLAM pic.twitter.com/RQvd1K7UqE

— NBA (@NBA) February 3, 2026

The highlight quickly spread across social media as fans reacted to the power and timing of the dunk, with the NBA amplifying the moment in real time and cementing it as one of the night’s defining plays.

The dunk occurred much earlier in the night, setting an aggressive tone before the game settled into its later phases. The 76ers built on that energy over the next two quarters, turning an assertive second-quarter stretch into sustained control as the contest moved toward its closing minutes.

By the midpoint of the fourth quarter, the 76ers held a 117–104 advantage, maintaining a double-digit lead while managing pace on the road vs. the Clippers. The margin reflected balance and physicality rather than reliance on a single scoring run.

Tyrese Maxey paced the offense with 29 points and a team-best plus-minus, while Barlow made his impact on the interior with 20 points and 16 rebounds, including 10 offensive boards that generated extra possessions. Joel Embiid added 24 points and remained a flawless seven-for-seven at the free-throw line, helping stabilize the 76ers whenever L.A. showed signs of momentum.

The Clippers attempted to respond with short spurts, including a fourth-quarter finish from Leonard and a perimeter make from Lopez, but the 76ers consistently answered. Within that broader context, the early poster dunk functioned as a tone-setter—an emphatic moment that previewed a road performance defined by control, effort, and execution as the game moved toward its conclusion.

The post 76ers guard Quentin Grimes catches a body with huge dunk over John Collins appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Fragile core

At 31-18, the Knicks enter deadline week as one of the East’s most complete teams on paper. They are also one of its most volatile in practice. Winning the NBA Cup in December validated the Mike Brown hire. It also confirmed that this is no longer a “cute” Knicks team but a real contender. The offense has been elite, ranking third in efficiency. They are driven by Jalen Brunson’s control of tempo and Karl-Anthony Towns’ spacing and rebounding.

Defensively, the Knicks remain strong, but cracks have appeared. The early-January 2-9 skid exposed a rotation stretched too thin and overly dependent on the starters to win non-Brunson minutes. When the shots stop falling, New York doesn’t have a pressure release valve.

Bench problem

Despite the summer addition of Jordan Clarkson, the Knicks remain near the bottom of the league in bench scoring. Injuries to Mitchell Robinson have compounded the issue. This has forced Towns into exhausting defensive assignments and limited lineup creativity. The result is a team good enough to win 50 games. That said, this unit may not be resilient enough to win four playoff rounds.

This is where the Knicks’ season will be decided. Detroit has depth. Boston has depth. Even Cleveland’s regression still comes with waves of playable bodies. New York has six men it trusts. That just isn’t enough in May.

Less Giannis, more pragmatism

While Giannis remains the fantasy, league insiders have cooled expectations around a Knicks mega-bid. Draft capital is tight, and there is real reluctance to disrupt a group that already lifted hardware. Instead, the whispers have shifted toward rotation fixes and internal tension management.

Towns’ name popping up in summer talks has reportedly left scars. Robinson’s injury cycle has reopened debates about durability versus reliability. Leon Rose’s recent behavior, which hasbeen quiet, methodical, and value-driven, suggests the Knicks are preparing a Plan B that strengthens the roster without blowing it up.

The one trade New York must make

The “Second unit salvation”

Knicks receive: Ayo Dosunmu, Andre Drummond, Trendon Watford, Eric Gordon

76ers receive:, Mitchell Robinson, 2026 first-round pick (via Bulls), 2026 second-round pick (Knicks), 2028 second-round pick (Knicks)

Bulls receive: Guerschon Yabusele, Justin Edwards, 2027 second-round pick (via 76ers)

This is not a headline trade. It’s a championship-grade three-team trade.

The financials: Escaping the apron trap

The Knicks are operating just inches below the Second Apron. This deal is engineered with surgical precision.

Outgoing:
Mitchell Robinson ($12.9M)
Guerschon Yabusele ($5.5M)
Total: ~$18.4M

Incoming:
Ayo Dosunmu ($7.5M)
Andre Drummond ($5.0M)
Eric Gordon ($2.3M)
Trendon Watford ($2.4M)
Total: ~$17.2M

The result: compliance with hard-cap rules and additional breathing room. That margin matters when every 10-day contract and injury replacement could trigger penalties.

Why the Knicks must do it

Depth over dreams:
If Giannis doesn’t come, New York’s title path depends on surviving non-Brunson minutes. This deal turns two rotation players into four playable postseason pieces. The Knicks stop bleeding when the starters sit.

The Dosunmu-Watford defensive punch:
Dosunmu gives New York elite point-of-attack defense and off-ball intelligence. Watford is the quiet gem. He is 6’8, switchable, and capable of initiating offense from the elbow. Together, they transform the second unit from passive to predatory.

Drummond as structural insurance:
Robinson’s availability is always theoretical. Drummond’s rebounding and physicality are not. He allows Tom Thibodeau to protect Towns, experiment with jumbo lineups, and survive foul trouble without panic.

Eric Gordon’s playoff gravity:
Gordon’s numbers may be modest, but his reputation isn’t. If he’s healthy, defenses still hug him. That spacing alone unlocks cleaner looks for everyone else when games slow down.

Why Philadelphia and Chicago agree

Philadelphia finally gets a true rim protector behind Joel Embiid. They also secure a 2026 Bulls first-rounder. That’s one of the most valuable non-lottery-adjacent picks on the market.

Chicago continues its youth pivot. They will convert an expiring Dosunmu into developmental upside and future seconds that align with a longer timeline.

Here’s an uncomfortable truth for Nw York, though: the pick hurts Giving up the 2026 Bulls first-rounder is painful. In a deep draft, that could be a top-10 selection. Still, this is the cost of contention. The Knicks are chasing Detroit now. Depth is the currency of playoff survival, and this trade buys it in bulk.

Championships are built in margins

If Giannis Antetokounmpo doesn’t become a Knick, the season doesn’t end. It may actually clarify. This potential three-team trade doesn’t chase a fantasy. Instead, it’s meant to fix reality.

The Knicks must remember that they don’t need another star to win the East. They need just eight players they trust.

This deal gives them nine.

The post 1 trade Knicks must make at 2026 NBA trade deadline if they don’t get Giannis Antetokounmpo appeared first on ClutchPoints.

While some, like ESPN’s Bobby Marks, believe a deal centered around Edgecombe could be very attractive to the Bucks, according to Kyle Neubeck of PHLY’s sources, that’s unlikely to happen, as Daryl Morey and company view the third overall pick out of Baylor as a foundational player who should be a “Sixer for life.”

“If you think that Giannis is on the trade block and there is not going to be a call between the Sixers and Bucks at some point between now and the trade deadline on Thursday, I don’t think you’ve been paying much attention. I think that they are interested,” Neubeck said during an appearance on The Kevin O’Connor Show

“Anytime a player like Giannis is on the market, Daryl  Morey is a guy who wants stars. He cares about stars. But I do believe when you hit to the degree they did on VJ, what VJ is doing is being productive and actively driving winning. Every single night, his role changes. One night, he’s got to score 20. One night, he’s got to guard Jalen Brunson and maybe take five shots the whole game. He’s a foundational building block in Philadelphia. And I would be stunned if he goes anywhere in the short to medium term. They want him to be a Sixer for life.”

Now granted, as O’Connor noted, trading for a proven player like Antetokounmpo, who has a list of accolades a mile long, is a hard deal to pass up, as there’s no guarantee Edgecombe ever becomes an All-NBA player, let alone an MVP. And yet, after watching Edgecombe make incredible plays at both ends of the court for the 76ers, why would Philadelphia want another team to roll the dice on his upside? If the Bucks are eager to land Edgecombe, it’s because he’s already really good and has the potential to be the best player in the trade a few years down the line when Antetokounmpo is out of his prime.

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However, should things change between now and this week’s deadline, Edgecombe could give the 76ers a legitimate edge in trade offers made to the Bucks for Antetokounmpo, per ESPN’s insiders.

“The 76ers might well decline to discuss Edgecombe in any trade package, given the strong start to the No. 3 pick’s career. They could opt to build around Edgecombe and Maxey as a long-term backcourt partnership,” Marks said. “But GM Daryl Morey has always chased after stars, and he might not turn down the chance to build a contender with, arguably, three of the best half-dozen players in the East.

“Assuming they maintain their health, Antetokounmpo, Maxey and Joel Embiid could lead Morey to his first Finals appearance — and the 76ers to their first conference finals since 2001.”

Trading for Antetokounmpo as part of a packaged deal that includes Edgecombe, Paul George, a 2028 first-round pick, and a 2030 first-round pick would also drop the 76ers below the luxury tax and open a roster spot. Plus, ahead of George’s 25-game suspension for violating the anti-drug policy, which could work in Philadelphia’s favor in its offer to Milwaukee.

“For Milwaukee, the math of this deal works out to Edgecombe and one pick for Antetokounmpo and then a second pick to take back the two years and $110.7 million on George’s deal that remain after this season,” Marks added. “George is eligible to be traded despite starting a 25-game suspension over the weekend for violating the NBA’s drug policy.

“His absence might actually be a bonus for Milwaukee, which would presumably want to lose as many games as possible over the rest of the season if it trades Antetokounmpo.”

76ers shut down VJ Edgecombe for Giannis Antetokounmpo talk

76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe has proven he has a bright future ahead of him in the NBA, which makes it a difficult decision to trade the third overall pick, even if it is for Bucks All-Star Giannis Antetokounmpo. It’s easy to assume why the 76ers would deep Edgecombe as untouchable, per Sixers reporter Kyle Neubeck.

“Spoke to a league source this morning who completely shot down the idea that the Sixers would trade VJ Edgecombe in any move, including in speculative deals people are talking about for Giannis,” Neubeck reported. “Should go without saying, but he’s part of the foundation in Philly.”

Along with its All-Star Tyrese Maxey, it’s easy to see why letting Antetokounmpo go is a difficult move to agree to.

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With how they’ve been playing, it wouldn’t be a surprise if they decided to make a trade before the deadline to try to add a piece to the team, and that might be the best move. The 76ers also have some movable contracts on their roster, which could make facilitating a trade even easier.

The same names have floated around trade talks for a while, with the main one being Giannis Antetokounmpo, but there’s no way the 76ers try to get into those talks right now. You then have Zion Williamson, who the 76ers don’t particularly need.

Staying with the New Orleans Pelicans, they do have some players on their team that could help contenders now, but it’s uncertain if they’re willing to sell ahead of the deadline, unless they’re getting a pick in return (the Pelicans don’t own their 2026 first-round pick).

The one player on the Pelicans that the 76ers should go after is Saddiq Bey. After being out last season as he recovered from an ACL injury, Bey has come back this year and played at a high level. He’s averaging a career-high 16.5 points per game and has been doing his part on the court, even though the Pelicans aren’t winning many games.

If the 76ers wanted to make a deal with the 76ers, they could trade Andre Drummond and a future pick. Drummond has pretty much fallen out of the rotation for the 76ers, and maybe he could get some minutes with the Pelicans. He’s also on an expiring contract worth $5 million, while Bey has two years left on his contract worth $6 million per year.

This deal could work for both sides, and it will be interesting to see if the 76ers explore something ahead of the deadline.

The post The trade 76ers must make after Paul George’s 25-game drug suspension appeared first on ClutchPoints.

The injury occurred during a contest against Zion Williamson, and head coach Ime Udoka initially described the issue as a severely sprained ankle. Udoka later added that it was likely a Grade 3 sprain and noted that he did not think Adams would be back anytime soon.

This loss is a significant blow to a team already missing Fred VanVleet due to an ACL injury. While Alperen Sengun and Kevin Durant have kept the Rockets competitive in the Western Conference, the team must now look to bolster its depth behind Clint Capela to sustain its momentum.

As a result of this vacancy in the frontcourt, Houston has reportedly registered interest in Philadelphia 76ers veteran Andre Drummond. The 76ers are currently in a position where they may need to shed salary to move below the luxury tax threshold.

While Paul George’s 25-game suspension for violating the league’s anti-drug policy has hindered the team’s on-court performance, it provides a unique financial opportunity. The 76ers received a $5.8 million tax credit due to the suspension, leaving them approximately $1.2 million above the tax line.

Consequently, moving a player like Drummond, who is on a $5 million expiring contract, presents the clearest path for the organization to achieve its financial goals while navigating the season without a key superstar.

Drummond has recently seen his role diminished in Philadelphia, falling behind younger contributors like Adem Bona and Dominick Barlow in the rotation. Because of this shift and the Rockets’ sudden need for interior size, a trade appears increasingly likely before the February deadline.

With only a few days left before the market closes, the synergy between Philadelphia’s financial needs and Houston’s roster requirements makes this one of the most intriguing situations to monitor in the league.

The post NBA rumors: Rockets interested in 76ers trade after Steven Adams injury appeared first on ClutchPoints.

The 76ers enter the matchup at 27–21, No. 6 in the East, riding a three-game winning streak. The Clippers come in at 23–25, No. 9 in the West, hoping to build off a dominant 117–93 win over the Phoenix Suns. Here’s everything we know from the injury report about Joel Embiid and his playing status vs. the Clippers.

Embiid remains the 76ers’ anchor whenever he is on the floor. Through 28 games this season, he is averaging 26.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.9 assists while shooting 49.0 percent from the field and 85.0 percent from the free-throw line.

Even with his workload carefully managed, Embiid continues to dictate matchups in the paint and command constant defensive attention. His ability to draw double teams creates space for teammates, and his scoring touch still sets the tone for Philadelphia’s offense. When he plays, the 76ers operate with far more structure and confidence.

Joel Embiid injury status vs. Clippers

The 76ers’ injury report makes Embiid’s availability especially important. Philadelphia is trying to extend its winning streak and strengthen its position in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. The injury report lists some players as questionable because of G-League assignments. A league suspension has sidelined Paul George. Kelly Oubre Jr. continues to recover from a left knee injury. Philadelphia’s margin for error shrinks if Embiid is limited.

The Clippers will view this matchup as a chance to build momentum at home. For the 76ers, it is about proving their surge is real. For Los Angeles, it is an opportunity to stack wins. And at the center of it all is Embiid’s right ankle.

Just before the start of the Clippers game, the 76ers announced that Embiid will be part of the team’s starting unit, a clear sign that he’ll be ready to go for the contest.

tonight’s starting 5:

@TyreseMaxey
@vj_edgecombe
@JoelEmbiid
@KELLYOUBREJR
@Dominickbarlow_ pic.twitter.com/hh1NjkJj9h

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) February 3, 2026

So when it comes to the question of is Joel Embiid playing tonight vs. the Clippers, the answer is  yes.

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The arena itself seemed to speak in the dialect of the past it was summoned to celebrate. The vintage Sixers logo with the retro comet tail was displayed on the court, the team wore throwback black jerseys, and Hip-Hop, the mascot from the early 2000s, returned for the occasion. The reunion orbited Iverson, the No. 1 overall pick in the 1996 NBA Draft, whose presence embodied the team that reached the 2001 NBA Finals.

Iverson was named NBA MVP and led Philadelphia to the Finals, where the 76ers lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in five games. The 2001 playoff run included a Game 1 victory over a Los Angeles team led by Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. Iverson was also recognized for his early career achievements, including Rookie of the Year honors and his status as an 11-time NBA All-Star.

Multiple members of the 2000-01 squad were in attendance for the ceremony, including Eric Snow, Rodney Buford, Theo Ratliff, Todd MacCulloch, Jumaine Jones, and George Lynch. Former team president Pat Croce and former general manager Billy King were also present. Croce served as the guest bell ringer to open the night, and the entire group was honored at center court during halftime before Iverson’s entrance sent the crowd into a frenzy.

A SIX FOOT GUARD FROM GEORGETOWN. pic.twitter.com/aQ1t9sR4zn

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) February 1, 2026

The night was made whole by the Sixers’ 124-114 win over the New Orleans Pelicans. Joel Embiid put up a season-high 40 points and 11 rebounds in 39 minutes, shooting 13-of-27 from the field, 3-of-5 from three-point range, and 11-of-14 at the free-throw line. He added four assists, two blocks, and one steal.

The 76ers outscored New Orleans 36-21 in the second quarter and held a 13-point halftime lead entering the championship ceremony. The Sixers finished with five players in double figures as Kelly Oubre Jr. recorded 19 points and 10 rebounds, Tyrese Maxey 18 points and eight assists, VJ Edgecombe 15 points and five assists, and Jared McCain 12 points and one assist.

The win completed a 3-0 homestand and improved Philadelphia to 27-21, sixth in the Eastern Conference. New Orleans fell to 13-38 despite 34 points from Saddiq Bey and 19 from Trey Murphy III. Zion Williamson finished with 11 points after being scoreless at halftime.

The Sixers will next hit the road to face the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday.

The post Watch 76ers legend Allen Iverson get introduced during 2001 Eastern Conference Championship celebration appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Embiid, in his 12th NBA season and 10th active year with the 76ers, finished with 40 points, 11 rebounds, four assists, two blocks, and one steal in 39 minutes. He shot 13-of-27 from the field, including 3-of-5 from three-point range, and made 11-of-14 free throws. The performance was his first 40-point game of the season.

The night featured a heartwarming moment for Embiid. His five-year-old son, Arthur, joined his father on the court while he was giving an interview after the win, and asked innocently:

“How much did you get?”

Embiid proudly responded with a huge smile on his face:

“I got 40!”

Joel Embiid's son Arthur: "How much did you get?"

Joel Embiid to his son: "I got 40!"

This postgame moment in Philly https://t.co/h9dyLXycJo pic.twitter.com/qumMloIQsH

— NBA (@NBA) February 1, 2026

The Sixers received strong support from their supporting cast. Kelly Oubre Jr. recorded a double-double with 19 points and 10 rebounds, adding four assists. Tyrese Maxey added 18 points, eight assists, and five rebounds, while VJ Edgecombe contributed 15 points and five assists. Second-year guard Jared McCain also scored 12 points, including four three-pointers and provided an assist. Dominick Barlow and Trendon Watford provided secondary scoring and defensive support. Philadelphia shot 17-of-36 from three-point range and outrebounded New Orleans 52-46.

The Pelicans, now 13-38 on the season and 14th in the Western Conference,, were led by Saddiq Bey, who scored 34 points and grabbed six rebounds. The defensive gaze of the 76ers kept Zion Williamson in check, and he labored to 11 points on six field-goal attempts with five rebounds. Nineteen points and nine rebounds flowed from Trey Murphy III, with Jeremiah Fears chiming in 12 off the bench.

Meanwhile, Philadelphia improved to 27-21 on the season, holding the sixth spot in the Eastern Conference. The Sixers have won three straight and will look to extend their streak Monday on the road against the Los Angeles Clippers.

The post 76ers’ Joel Embiid shares special moment with son Arthur after dropping 40 appeared first on ClutchPoints.

The NBA announced Saturday that George was suspended for violating the league’s anti-drug policy, a decision that will sideline the nine-time All-Star until March 25 and remove him from nearly the entirety of Philadelphia’s playoff push. However, Tyrese Maxey is standing firm behind his teammate.

Tyrese Maxey on Paul George: “First of all, we stand with Paul. We appreciate him.”

When the news broke, Maxey reached out to Jared McCain, Trendon Watford & Justin Edwards to let them know they needed to be ready (and he knew he didn’t need to give Kelly Oubre Jr. that message)

— Adam Aaronson (@SixersAdam) February 1, 2026

“First of all, we stand with Paul. We appreciate him,” he said when asked about the suspension, per a clip posted on X by Sixers beat writer Adam Aaronson.

The suspension is effective immediately and comes with both competitive and financial consequences. George is set to forfeit approximately $11.7 million in salary, or roughly $469,700 per game, during the ban. While the league did not disclose the specific substance involved,

George later clarified that the positive test stemmed from an improper medication taken while seeking treatment for a mental health issue.

“I take full responsibility for my actions and apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates and the Philly fans for my poor decision making during this process. I am focused on using this time to make sure that my mind and body are in the best condition to help the team when I return,” he had said about the suspension, per OnPattinson.

On the court, George’s absence creates a substantial void. In 27 games this season, the 35-year-old has averaged 16.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in just over 30 minutes per game.

Philadelphia’s performance metrics underscore his impact: the Sixers hold a +4.7 net rating with George on the floor, compared to a -1.9 rating when he is off it. Philadelphia now faces a familiar challenge.

George had already missed 20 games earlier in the season due to injury, with the suspension now adding further issues for a roster that has already struggled this campaign.

The post 76ers’ Tyrese Maxey stands with Paul George after 25 game suspension appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Embiid is halfway through the 12th season of his NBA career with the 76ers, his 10th year as an active player. He has helped the franchise enjoy its best years in the modern era following the Iverson era in the early 2000s.

Speaking of Iverson, the franchise legend was in attendance as well as the memorable 2000-01 squad. Philadelphia dedicated an event to celebrating Iverson and that year’s team, who made the 2001 NBA Finals and had the iconic Game 1 win to stun the Los Angeles Lakers. Iverson also took home the MVP Award that season, adding onto the allure of his legendary status in the community.

Embiid made sure to deliver a performance that Iverson and the team would be proud to witness. In 39 minutes of action, he finished with a stat line of 40 points, 11 rebounds, four assists, two blocks, and one steal. He shot 13-of-27 from the field, including 3-of-5 from beyond the arc, and 11-of-14 from the free-throw line. It marked his first 40-point game of the season.

How Joel Embiid, 76ers played against Pelicans

It was a marvelous performance for Joel Embiid to have for Allen Iverson and the 2001 squad’s special night, leading the 76ers to the 124-114 win over the Pelicans.

Both teams were competitive throughout most of the game, trading 3-pointers all night. Despite this, Philadelphia had a big performance in the second quarter after outscoring New Orleans 36-21 throughout the period. This proved to be the difference as the hosts secured the victory.

Five players scored in double-digits for Philadelphia in the win, including Embiid. Kelly Oubre Jr. followed suit with a display of 19 points, 10 rebounds and four assists. He shot 7-of-13 overall, including 3-of-7 from downtown, and 2-of-4 from the charity stripe. Tyrese Maxey came next with 18 points and eight assists, VJ Edgecombe put up 15 points and five assists, while Jared McCain provided 12 points and two rebounds.

Philadelphia improved to a 27-21 record on the season, holding the sixth spot in the Eastern Conference standings. They are 1.5 games above the Orlando Magic and two games above the Miami Heat. However, they trail the Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors by one game.

Rolling with three consecutive wins, the 76ers will look forward to their next matchup. They are on the road when they face the Los Angeles Clippers on Feb. 2 at 10 p.m. ET.

The post 76ers’ Joel Embiid drops 40 in front of Allen Iverson on 2001 Conference Championship reunion night appeared first on ClutchPoints.

The NBA announced on Saturday that George sustained a 25-game ban for violating its anti-drug policy. This means that when he comes back into the rotation, there will be 10 games remaining in the regular season.

Nurse reflected on the news during Saturday’s pregame press conference ahead of the 76ers’ matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans. When media asked him about the adjustments he will make with George’s absence, the head coach made his thoughts on the situation very clear.

“We gotta figure out who’s gonna filter where, and I think it’s probably going to be like it always is: who are we playing, what do the matchups look like, who’s playing well at the time, what combinations look good together,” Nurse said.

Nick Nurse on how the rotations change without Paul George:

“We gotta figure out who’s gonna filter where, and I think it’s probably going to be like it always is: who are we playing, what do the matchups look like, who’s playing well at the time, what combinations look good… pic.twitter.com/IEwOW8b7uK

— PHLY Sixers (@PHLY_Sixers) January 31, 2026

What lies ahead for Nick Nurse, 76ers

It is an unfortunate setback for Nick Nurse and the 76ers to have with Paul George’s suspension. Finally making progress from a disastrous 2024-25 campaign, the team has placed itself into the playoff conversation prior to George’s ban.

Philadelphia is 16-11 when George plays and 10-10 when he does not this season. In the 27 games he took part in, he has been averaging 16 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. He is shooting 42.4% from the field, including 38.2% from beyond the arc, and 85.5% from the free-throw line.

Philadelphia has a 26-21 record on the season, holding the sixth spot in the Eastern Conference standings. They are above the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat while trailing the Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors.

After their matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday, the 76ers will be on the road for their next contest. They face the Los Angeles Clippers as tip-off will commence on Feb. 2 at 10 p.m. ET.

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“I stand with you,” the two-time All-Star center posted on X. George issued a statement in the aftermath of the league’s punishment, revealing that he mistakenly took “improper medication” while seeking treatment for a mental health issue. Obviously, Drummond is concerned for his fellow NBA veteran’s well-being.

Although the two men have shared a locker room for less than two seasons, they have spent well over a decade in the NBA together. There is a certain kinship that forms during that time, even from afar. Sixers head coach Nick Nurse will trust Drummond and other experienced members of the team like Joel Embiid and Kyle Lowry to keep the players focused amid this setback.

George has endured injury problems and a decline in production during his short tenure in Philadelphia, but he is still leaving his mark from 3-point range. The 2019 All-NBA First-Team selection is shooting 38.2 percent from distance and drained nine treys in Tuesday’s 139-122 victory versus the Milwaukee Bucks. He is also a solid rebounder, averaging 5.1 through 27 games. Fortunately, Drummond has that department covered.

The 32-year-old big man is averaging 8.7 boards in just 19.6 minutes per contest. He continues to attack the glass with ferocity and is a vital backup for the injury-prone Embiid. Andre Drummond will stay ready and activate his superpower when needed.

Judging by his latest message, he will also be there for his friend.

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Following the NBA’s official announcement that Paul George had been suspended over the league’s anti-drug policy, the 76ers’ wing released a statement via Shams Charania of ESPN explaining the situation and taking responsibility for his actions.

“Over the past few years, I’ve discussed the importance of mental health, and in the course of recently seeking treatment for an issue of my own, I made the mistake of taking an improper medication,” George wrote. “I take full responsibility for my actions and apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates and the Philly fans for my poor decision making during this process.”

“I am focused on using this time to make sure that my mind and body are in the best condition to help the team when I return.”

Looking ahead at the 76ers’ upcoming schedule, a 25-game suspension would put George’s probable return around March 25 as the 76ers host the Chicago Bulls. That would give the team a little less than one month to re-integrate George back in the lineup before a potential playoff push.

The 76ers are currently in the No. 6 spot in the Eastern Conference standings at 26-21. They are only one game ahead of the No. 7 Orlando Magic who are also on a two-game win streak.

George is in his second season with the 76ers after signing as a free agent in the 2024 offseason. He made a return this year after having last season cut short due to injury. He’s appeared in a total of 27 games so far, at a little over 30 minutes per game. He’s been averaging 16.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.5 steals with splits of 42.4 percent shooting from the field, 38.2 percent shooting from the 3-point line and 85.5 percent shooting from the free-throw line.

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Although Kelly Oubre Jr. and Quentin Grimes appeared on the 76ers’ injury report for their game against the Pelicans, they will likely have both available. Oubre was listed as available, while Grimes was listed as probable, as per the NBA’s official injury report. Oubre made his return to the lineup this month after being sidelined due to a knee injury. Grimes missed the last two games due to an ankle injury, but he is expected back in the lineup against the Pelicans.

The 76ers will be without rookie Johni Broome, as well as MarJon Beauchamp and Charles Bassey, all of whom are on G League assignment with the Delaware Blue Coats. Broome was the No. 35 overall draft pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Beauchamp is on a two-way contract, and Bassey is on a 10-day contract.

In the case of Oubre and Grimes, they have been among the 76ers top role players this season.

Oubre has played in 25 games, including 20 starts, at just about 32 minutes per game. He’s been averaging 14.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.2 steals with splits of 49.2 percent shooting from the field, 36.5 percent shooting from the 3-point line and 74.2 percent shooting from the free-throw line.

Grimes has appeared in 43 games, including seven starts, at a little over 30 minutes per game. He’s averaging 13.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.0 steals with splits of 43.3 percent shooting from the field, 34.4 percent shooting from the 3-point line and 85.9 percent shooting from the free-throw line.

The 76ers are 26-21 and hold the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference standings. They are coming off a win against the Sacramento Kings in which Tyrese Maxey dropped in the game-winner.

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Yes, some of these moves have worked out very well for the 76ers, as few will argue that Daryl Morey should have kept Caleb Martin over Quentin Grimes last February, but the team hasn’t made a massive swing in the middle of a season since Ben Simmons was moved to the Brooklyn Nets in a monster deal for James Harden.

For Joel Embiid, these marginal moves have just been the nature of the beast, maneuvers made because he himself was unable to stay healthy, but after taking care of business against the Sacramento Kings with an impressive showing by, well, basically everyone, the 76ers’ center declared that he wants to see Morey make a move of note to go all-in on winning right here and now.

“Obviously, we’ve been ducking the tax past couple of years, so hopefully, we’ll keep the same team. I love all the guys that are here. I think we got a shot,” Embiid said via Liberty Ballers. “I don’t know what they’re gonna do, but I hope we get a chance to just go out and compete because we’ve got a good group of guys in this locker room. The vibes are great. Like I said, in the past we’ve been I guess ducking the tax, so hopefully we think about improving because I think we have a chance.”

On paper, Embiid’s assertion is right on the money: Though they currently sit in sixth place, the Eastern Conference is wide open. Factor in the vibes around the team being at an all-time high and the impressive showings from Embiid, Maxey, Paul George, VJ Edgecombe, Kelly Oubre, and beyond, and the 76ers really might be a player or two away from being a legit Eastern Conference Finals team.

Unfortunately, the 76ers do have one issue: the salary cap.

Because the 76ers are just under $1 million below the first apron, they can’t add too much more money without landing in the tax, with roughly half of the teams around the NBA already having some sort of restrictions on their trade abilities because of the aprons.

If the 76ers want to trade for a huge star and are willing to put PG’s contract in the proverbial trade machine, then sure, they can make pretty much any move they’d like, but if the team wants to hold onto their top-8 players, Embiid, Maxey, George, Edgecombe, Oubre, Grimes, Dominik Barlow, and Adem Bona, and keep Jared McCain around as well as he looks to recapture his shot after a UCL tear, their options become limited, especially if they aren’t willing to surrender a first round pick for a bench player. Fortunately, there is a player who fits the bill and won’t cost too much to acquire either.

The 76ers should bring back Haywood Highsmith

Before Haywood Highsmith was a member of the Brooklyn Nets, the Miami Heat, or even the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018-19, he was a former Division III prospect taking part in a local tryout for the Delaware Blue Coats after a successful career at Wheeling University.

Highsmith was able to make the team, then the 76ers, and then the Heat – with a stint in Europe in between – because of hard work and dedication to his 3-and-D craft, and while he hasn’t played yet in 2025 or 2026 after being acquired by the Brooklyn Nets, he should be fully healed from a meniscal surgery last year and capable of playing for a new team after the trade deadline.

Standing 6-foot-5, 220 pounds, Highsmith is a two-way combo forward who can average almost a steal a game, bring in 3.1 rebounds, and a half-dozen points per game on .449/.374/.605 shooting. He’s athletic enough to be a weapon in the full-court press alongside players like Maxey and Edgecombe, is a plus switch defender, and can consistently knock down open 3-pointers at an above-average NBA clip, which isn’t always the case when players like Barlow, Trendon Watford, or Jabari Walker throw up a shot.

Considering the 76ers’ power forward spot has mostly been used as a rebounder who can ease the tension on Embiid in the painted area when he isn’t spacing the floor, Highsmith would fit that role without having to surrender too much to acquire.

Now granted, maybe Daryl Morey has something massive up his sleeve. Maybe he does have a Giannis Antetokounmpo trade up his sleeve that keeps Maxey, Embiid, and Edgecombe on the roster long-term, and the 76ers will never have to worry about the power forward spot again. But if the 76ers instead want to build around the edges and keep a very cohesive core intact, all it would likely take to land Highsmith would be a second-round pick and matching salary, as he was acquired effectively for free in a salary dump from Miami during the offseason, and they could have the marginal upgrade needed to make some noise in the Eastern Conference. Add another center in free agency, convert Barlow to an NBA contract, and the 76ers might just be in business heading into the summer.

76ers acquire: Haywood Highsmith

Nets acquire: Andre Drummond, 2028 second-round pick

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Breaking down the situation at the Philadelphia Inquirer, Ryan W. Briggs and Max Marin revealed that Harris and Epstein had communicated on multiple occasions over the years, even if the conversations were not of an explicit nature.

“Jeffrey Epstein and Sixers co-owner Josh Harris had an ongoing business relationship that included numerous phone calls and at least one visit to Epstein’s home in Manhattan, according to emails released Friday by the U.S. Department of Justice,” Briggs and Marin wrote.

“The emails do not contain any indication that Harris was involved with sexual misconduct. The records — buried within the three million documents made public Friday as part of the congressionally ordered release of the Epstein Files — shed light on a yearslong correspondence that occurred after Epstein’s 2008 guilty plea for solicitation of prostitution with a minor, but before his 2019 arrest on child sex trafficking charges.”

In a statement on Harris’ behalf, Jonathan Rosen noted that the pair’s relationship was solely about business, with Harris attempting to keep Epstein out of dealings with his business.

“Harris sought to prevent Epstein’s attempts to develop a corporate relationship with Apollo,” he said. “As these emails indicate, Harris sought to avoid meeting with Epstein, canceling meetings and having others return his calls.”

With over 3 million emails released to the public and more to come in the forthcoming weeks, months, and years, this is a developing story.

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With Antetokounmpo in sight, many teams are ready to move heaven and earth to get the former MVP. That includes the Philadelphia 76ers, who could use a Giannis-sized boost. However, there’s one player that the Sixers are unwilling to move in any trade, even for Antetokounmpo: rookie VJ Edgecombe.

“Spoke to a league source this morning who completely shot down the idea that the Sixers would trade VJ Edgecombe in any move, including in speculative deals people are talking about for Giannis,” Kyle Neubeck reported on X. “Should go without saying, but he’s part of the foundation in Philly.”

A report from Marc Stein and Jake Fischer linked Giannis to 76ers star guard Tyrese Maxey.

“League sources say Philadelphia, furthermore, has not contacted Milwaukee about a possible Antetokounmpo deal in the wake of a better-than-expected first half, but The Stein Line has learned that the prospect of teaming up with Tyrese Maxey — who, like Giannis, works with prominent NBA trainer Drew Hanlen — does have the 76ers on Antetokounmpo’s radar.“

That leaves any talks of a Giannis-to-76ers trade in a weird spot. If Philadelphia plays the negotiations right, they will absolutely ask for Edgecombe in a trade. One of the most promising rookies from his class, Edgecombe will be the draft compensation Milwaukee needs. However, it’s for that same reason the Philly will not want to trade the rookie.

Edgecombe is averaging 15.1 points per game this season while shooting 42.6% from the field and 36.9% from deep. He’s also added 5.4 rebounds and 4.1 assists per contest. The third overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the rookie has been a crucial part in Philadelphia’s campaign this season. They survived a bad start the season to sport a 26-21 record and the sixth seed at the time of writing.

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But the 76ers are under pressure to win now considering the big contractual obligations they have towards Joel Embiid and Paul George. And Embiid, who’s fallen short in the second round of the playoffs five times in his career, is asking the front office to make some moves prior to the trade deadline and not pinch pennies the way they’ve been doing in the past.

“In the past we’ve been ducking the tax, the last couple of years. So hopefully, we’ll keep the same team. I think we got a shot,” Embiid told reporters, via Derek Bodner of PHLY Sports. “I don’t know what they’re going to do. But I hope that we get a chance to just go out and compete.”

“Hopefully we think about improving [the team at the deadline], because we got a chance.”

Joel Embiid, asked about keeping the team together at the trade deadline:

"In the past we've been ducking the tax, so hopefully we think about improving [the team at the deadline], because we got a chance."

"I hope that at least we get a chance to just go out and compete,… pic.twitter.com/QdCz3HlbL9

— Derek Bodner (@DerekBodnerNBA) January 30, 2026

What can the 76ers do to improve the team prior to the trade deadline?

Embiid, George, and Maxey are making a total of around $144 million this season, leaving not much room down the roster. But they have at least a few solid trade assets to dangle, such as Quentin Grimes and Kelly Oubre Jr., to try and acquire a player or two can help them mount a deep playoff run.

If anything, the 76ers need more size on the wings and at the power forward position. Their guard depth is solid, with Jared McCain backing up Maxey, but they’re going to need a lot more 3-and-D juice to keep up with the other giants in the association.

The post Joel Embiid calls out 76ers front office, seeks improvement at trade deadline appeared first on ClutchPoints.

After tying the score at 111 on the free throw line, the two-time All-Star point guard dashed to the basket for a strong finish at the rim with just 1.3 seconds left on the game clock. He pushed through the contact and lifted the Sixers to a 113-111 win. Fans probably anticipated a more straightforward outing, but they got their money’s worth.

TYRESE MAXEY IS THAT GUY

The Sixers star hits the game winner and finishes with 40 points!pic.twitter.com/iWOE5D0K0V

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 30, 2026

Maxey posted 40 points on 12-of-18 shooting to go with eight assists and four rebounds versus the Kings. Fellow franchise pillar Joel Embiid dropped 37 points and eight assists of his own. It is a bit alarming that the 76ers needed their two best players to combine for almost 80 points in order to survive one of the worst teams in the NBA, but head coach Nick Nurse will have all of Friday to scrutinize Philly’s performance. He is probably just relieved to get out of the building with a W.

Philadelphia remains two games behind the surging Cleveland Cavaliers for fifth place in the Eastern Conference. The 76ers boast solid depth, but they obviously need Tyrese Maxey to remain in attack mode if this season is going to end in genuine jubilation. Ideally, he will not need to unload 40 points to beat the New Orleans Pelicans this Saturday.

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