First Quarter Fuel: Sixers Take Charge Early
The Philadelphia 76ers moved to 3-0 with a 136-124 win over the Orlando Magic, despite resting star center Joel Embiid. The absence of Embiid meant more minutes for veteran leaders and a larger workload for the younger core. Tyrese Maxey wasted no time showing he was ready to shoulder an even bigger scoring load, starting the game with aggressive drives and precise shooting. The Sixers established an early rhythm behind Maxey’s scoring burst and timely baskets from role players, setting the stage for a dynamic offensive showing.
Maxey’s Masterclass: 43 Points, Fourth-Quarter Run
Tyrese Maxey finished with a staggering 43 points, showcasing a full offensive repertoire that kept the Magic on their heels. The scoring included a crucial stretch in the fourth quarter where he rattled off eight consecutive points, a sequence that sealed Philadelphia’s control of the game. With Embiid resting a surgically repaired left knee, Maxey stepped up as the focal point and delivered in crunch time, reinforcing his status as one of the league’s most prolific scorers when the game is on the line. His scoring average remains eye-popping, underscoring his role as the primary catalyst for Philadelphia’s attack.
Rookie Rising: Edgecombe Makes His Mark
Rookie guard VJ Edgecombe continued to turn heads in his early NBA career, pouring in 26 points in the win. Through three games, Edgecombe has amassed 75 points, a promising sign for the 76ers’ backcourt depth and development pipeline. His ability to create, shoot, and attack in transition gave Philadelphia another reliable option when Embiid wasn’t on the floor, helping stretch the Magic’s defense and opening driving lanes for Maxey and Oubre.
Supporting Scorers: Oubre and the Bench Deliver
Kelly Oubre Jr. contributed 25 points, adding another dimension to Philadelphia’s balanced attack. The Sixers leaned on a mix of reserves and veterans to maintain tempo while still preserving Embiid’s minutes for the high-leverage games later in the campaign. Andre Drummond added six rebounds, reaching a career milestone while continuing to provide interior presence and rebounding juice—his 11,000th career board placing him among NBA’s elite rebounders in history.
Magic’s Counterpunch: Banchero, Wagner, and Bane
For Orlando, Paolo Banchero led the way with 32 points, staying aggressive and showcasing his all-around scoring ability. Desmond Bane chipped in 24, and Franz Wagner added 22 as the Magic kept Philadelphia within striking distance for stretches. A late-quarter three from Anthony Black—far beyond the arc—buzzed through the air as he knocked down a shot at the third-quarter buzzer to pull Orlando within 101-94, signaling a potential momentum swing before the final push by the Sixers.
What It Means Moving Forward
Philadelphia’s performance without Embiid proves they can win consistently with a deep, versatile lineup when Maxey is firing on all cylinders. Edgecombe’s burgeoning confidence provides a hedged route for the backcourt, ensuring the Sixers won’t miss a beat in the early stretch of the season. The combination of Maxey’s elite scoring, Oubre’s reliable wing scoring, and the developing presence of Edgecombe gives Philadelphia a blueprint for success this year, especially in games where Embiid is on a limited minutes plan.
Upcoming Schedules
Magic: At Detroit on Wednesday. Sixers: At Washington on Tuesday. The early-season schedule will test both teams in different ways, but Philadelphia’s current form — especially with Embiid sidelined — offers a positive outlook for how they can approach road trips and back-to-back contests.
