Key Takeaways: Maxey shines as Sixers hand Magic another loss
The Philadelphia 76ers continued their early-season surge with a 136-124 victory over the Orlando Magic, a win earned without Joel Embiid, who sat out to rest his surgically repaired left knee. Tyrese Maxey stole the show with a dazzling 43-point performance, including eight straight points during a pivotal stretch in the fourth quarter. The 76ers improved to 3-0 on the young season, proving they can win at both ends of the floor even when their superstar is sidelined.
Maxey’s night was defined by efficiency and late-game burst. After a decisive 3-pointer, he drove for a dunk with just over a minute left to stretch Philadelphia’s lead to 12. The reigning scoring champion look-alike in impact terms, Maxey is now averaging a remarkable 37.0 points per game through these early contests, signaling that his offensive rhythm is carrying the team as Embiid rests.
The youngster’s scoring surge paired with strong contributions from rookie guard/forward VJ Edgecombe created a balanced attack that kept Philadelphia ahead of Orlando most of the night. Edgecombe, the No. 3 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, added 26 points in his third game of the season. The smooth combination of shot creation and aggression on the floor has fans buzzing about his potential, as he continues to fill the void when Embiid sits.
Supporting cast steps up for Philadelphia
Kelly Oubre Jr. provided 25 points, showcasing his ability to contribute in multiple scoring windows. His readiness to step into a starter’s role while Embiid heals is a noticeable factor in Philadelphia’s early-season chemistry. Across the roster, the Sixers distributed minutes and looked for steady production, a necessity given the minutes restriction on Embiid’s knee and the need to preserve him for a deeper playoff push later in the year.
Orlando’s balanced attack and late charge
For the Magic, Paolo Banchero led the way with 32 points, his consistent scoring presence helping keep the game within distance for large portions. Desmond Bane added 24, and Franz Wagner chipped in 22 as Orlando tried to counter Philadelphia’s offensive firepower. The Magic opened the game with a confident start and remained competitive through three quarters, even pulling within seven at one point in the third after a late-quarter rally.
Anthony Black delivered a memorable moment with a three-quarter-court heave at the end of the third, cutting the Sixers’ lead to 101-94 and signaling that Orlando could mount a late push. Though the burst didn’t translate into a comeback, it underscored the Magic’s resilience and willingness to push the pace against a team missing its top center.
Historical note: Drummond reaches a milestone
Andre Drummond’s eight rebounds gave him the 32nd spot in NBA history for 11,000 rebounds, a milestone echoing the longevity and consistency he has shown across a storied career. It’s a reminder of how veteran presence can impact a young team, even in a game dominated by stars on the other side.
Looking ahead
Next up for Orlando is a road trip to Detroit on Wednesday as they continue their five-game, 10-day swing. The Sixers head to Washington for a Tuesday matchup, hoping to build on their early-season momentum and test their depth against a variety of defensive schemes. Embiid’s gradual ramp-back remains a talking point, but the team has shown that its chemistry and depth are capable of staying afloat in his absence.
In these early games, the Sixers have demonstrated that offense can be a catalyst even when a marquee player rests. Maxey’s explosive scoring and Edgecombe’s steady play give Philadelphia a blueprint for staying dangerous while managing Embiid’s workload.
