The Philadelphia 76ers took a commanding 3-0 lead in their first-round playoff series against the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday night, thanks in large part to a late-game block by star center Joel Embiid. With the game tied at 103 and just over a minute remaining, Embiid came up with a huge block on Nets rookie Tyrese Maxey, preserving the tie and giving the 76ers the momentum they needed to pull out the win.
The defensive play was just one of many highlights for Embiid, who finished with a team-high 32 points and 11 rebounds. He was also a force on the defensive end, as he had four blocks and three steals in the game. Embiid’s performance was especially impressive considering he had been dealing with an ankle injury that had kept him out of practice earlier in the week.
The Nets had their chances to take the lead late in the game, but were unable to capitalize on their opportunities. They had a chance to take the lead with just over two minutes remaining, but Maxey’s shot was blocked by Embiid. The 76ers then went on an 8-2 run to close out the game and take a commanding 3-0 lead in the series.
The 76ers have been led by Embiid all season long, and his performance in Game 3 was no exception. He has been a dominant force on both ends of the court, and his ability to make plays like the one he made late in the game is what sets him apart from other players. With the 76ers now up 3-0 in the series, it looks like they are well on their way to advancing to the second round of the playoffs.
Embiid’s performance in Game 3 was a reminder of why he is one of the best players in the league. His ability to make plays on both ends of the court is what makes him so valuable to the 76ers, and his late-game block on Maxey was just another example of why he is one of the best players in the NBA. With the 76ers now up 3-0 in the series, it looks like they are well on their way to advancing to the second round of the playoffs.
