Sixers takeaways: Paul George's struggles with Joel Embiid, 3-point barrage

Keith Pompey, The Philadelphia Inquirer on Dec 20, 2024

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PHILADELPHIA — Paul George went back to being a nonfactor in regards to scoring while playing with Joel Embiid. The 76ers showed they can come out on fire from the 3-point line, and Ricky Council IV needs more minutes. Those three things stood out in the Sixers’ 108-98 victory over the Charlotte Hornets at the Wells Fargo Center.

George’s game alongside Embiid

George scored a season-high 33 points while making 13 of 20 shots in the Sixers' win in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday with Embiid sidelined. Many wondered if his offensive output playing alongside Embiid on Friday could be replicated.

Let’s just say it’s still a work in progress. George finished with five points on 2-for-12 shooting. The forward had just three points on 1-for-7 shooting in the first half. George did finish the game with 11 rebounds, eight assists and three steals. But he continues to struggle playing alongside the 7-foot-2 center.

George had 12 points while missing all five of his 3-pointers against the Chicago Bulls on Dec. 8 when Embiid returned after missing seven games with knee swelling. Then George basically was an offensive bystander before Embiid suffered his sinus fracture before halftime in a Dec. 13 loss, 121-107, to Indiana.

First-quarter snipers

Philly was a sharp-shooting machine in the first quarter, making 9 of 15 3-pointers. It tied the franchise record for the most 3s made in a single quarter. The Sixers made nine 3-pointers in a quarter two other times since 2022.

In the first quarter against the Washington Wizards on Dec. 11, 2023, and in the second quarter vs. the Pacers on April 5, 2022, the Sixers made nine 3s. Their 3-point success enabled them to build a 41-23 lead after one quarter. Friday night's 41 points tied for the most the Sixers have scored in a quarter in 2024.

Council’s minutes

This game was another example of why Council needs more minutes. The reserve forward had a solid impact, finishing with 11 points on 4-for-5 shooting — including making his lone 3-point attempt — along with two rebounds.

Council nearly hit his head on the rim on two of his dunks during the Sixers' win over Charlotte. He provides the energy, athleticism and grit the Sixers need off of the bench.