Sixers Game 4 observations: Ben Simmons not responsible for loss

Sixers observations from Game 4: Tobias Harris fell into bad habits

On the surface, Tobias Harris put forth a strong Game 4 effort with 21 points, 13 rebounds, and five assists. In reality, it was his worst game in a long time. He was way to eager to dribble and freelance, a tendency Doc Rivers has mostly done a good job curbing this season. Harris bogged down the offense and shot a ghastly 8-for-24 from the field.

All night, Harris was predictable, which led to an alarming number of his 16 misses coming in the form of a blocked shot. Even Ish Smith, a 6-foot guard who Harris made an effort to target all night, got his hand on a couple shots.

Harris cannot let an injury to Embiid lead to some false air of self-importance on the basketball court. He cannot and will not lead this team to victories if he’s playing outside himself. Quick shots, quick passes, and quick drives are Harris’ bread and butter. As soon as he tries to Kobe a bunch of shots from mid-range, the Sixers’ offense is dead in the water.

The Wizards have struggled to handle Harris all series. There isn’t a defender on that roster who should be able to contain him. If Harris plays his game and plays it well, the Sixers are in good shape. He simply cannot do what he did last night again.