Sixers’ duo of Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey finally show full potential

Recently I wrote about what the full potential of a Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey pairing would look like for the Philadelphia 76ers. In that piece, I outlined that both players would be playing at an All-Star level if they reached that potential.

When I wrote that article, both players hadn’t played at that level at that point in this season at the same time. However, in the Sixers’ recent win against the Brooklyn Nets, it did happen. It was easily the best game this season in which both players shined.

Embiid and Maxey show full potential for Sixers in the win against the Nets.

In the 110-102 victory, Embiid dominated the Nets’ frontcourt as expected for the All-Star big man who has a history of doing this against Brooklyn. He finished with 34 points, seven rebounds, and three steals, while making 11-23 from the field, 3-5 of his 3-pointers, and 9-12 of his free throws.

Embiid wasn’t the only 76ers’ player who dominated in this game. Maxey had a fantastic performance as he ended the game with 25 points, seven rebounds, and four assists while not making a single turnover. He also shot 10-18 from the floor and 5-8 from downtown.

Both players needed to have a big game to bet the Nets as Kevin Durant and James Harden combined for 66 points, 20 rebounds, and 14 assists. Not only did Embiid and Maxey have great individual games, but it was clear they are starting to learn how to play with each other.

If this becomes a trend then the Sixers can become a threat in the Eastern Conference. This also makes the need for a point guard in return for a Ben Simmons trade even less than it was it already was.