Joel Embiid shines despite a clutch third-quarter collapse while Lakers rally behind Austin Reaves and LeBron James after Luka Doncic exits.
The Philadelphia 76ers' (29-22) five-game winning streak came to an end, as they fell to the Los Angeles Lakers in a 119-115 loss.
The 76ers were unable to take full advantage of the matchup, despite All-Star guard Luka Dončić going down with an injury in the first half. Still, there is plenty to take away from the 76ers' performance.
Here are four takeaways from their tussle with Austin Reaves and LeBron James:
Joel Embiid's Hot Hand Continues
If there were any doubt, Joel Embiid remains the Joel Embiid, which is why he is one of the best bigs in the league. Embiid had 35 points, seven rebounds, seven assists, and two blocks on 13-19 shooting. He picked up where he left off in January, continuing his dominant stretch of play.
The Lakers Found A Way Without Doncic
Doncic went down with a leg injury in the first half of the match. He did not return for the contest, forcing the Lakers to adjust for the remainder of the game. Doncic was seen kicking late in the first quarter and was eventually ruled out for the second quarter.
In Doncic's absence, the Lakers received stellar play from Austin Reaves, who recently returned from an injury and had 35 points off the bench, while LeBron James had 17 points, 10 assists, and four rebounds.
Doncic finished the game with 10 points, four rebounds, and two assists.
76ers' Backcourt Thrived
The 76ers' backcourt brought the energy throughout the night. Tyrese Maxey scored 26 points and dished out assists. VJ Edgecombe also had his presence felt, finishing the contest with 19 points, 10 rebounds, and four steals.
The duo continues to complement each other, emerging as one of the league's best backcourts.
Third Quarter Meltdown
At one point in the third quarter, the 76ers held a 10-point lead, but it quickly evaporated, and they found themselves down 10 entering the fourth. The Lakers took control with a strong offensive push led by Austin Reaves and LeBron James and began to pull away. Despite a comeback from the 76ers. Unfortunately, it would be too much for the Sixers, as the Lakers would hold on to win.
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