A sluggish start plagued the Philadelphia 76ers, but thanks to Joel Embiid, they were able to overcome their own mishaps and beat the Cavaliers 112-108, sweeping the regular-season series. With the win, the Sixers clinched a playoff spot for the fifth straight year, with four games remaining.

Joel Embiid is the MVP

Joel Embiid finished the night with 44 points, 17 rebounds, five blocks and three assists. It was Embiid’s 11th game this season with 40+ points and 10+ rebounds. The only players with more in a season since the merger are Russell Westbrook (12) and Moses Malone (12).

Without Jarrett Allen or Evan Mobley, the Cavaliers had zero answers for Embiid and he made them pay from every corner of the court. Embiid also got to the foul line all night, making 17-of-20 from the charity stripe, sending Cavaliers and NBA casuals on Twitter into hysteria.

When will they learn that “Foul Merchant” is actually a cool nickname and not an insult. If you don’t want Embiid to go to the foul line then maybe stop fouling him. Pretty easy concept, right?

James Harden

Man, sometimes Harden really struggles to find his shot but he still manages to put together strong games. Harden finished the night 4-for-13 from the floor but ended the game with a triple-double, scoring 21 points with 10 rebounds, and 10 assists.

Harden’s shot will fall. Regardless, the most important part of his game is the way that he facilitates. The presence he brings as a passer, especially in the pick-and-roll, has liberated the entire team offensively.

76ers Game Notes

• Joel Embiid is the Most Valuable Player in the NBA
• Shoot more free throws (35-42 tonight)
• Matisse Thybulle was tremendous defensively
• Rough night for Harris and Maxey

Up Next

After completing a two-win, back-to-back, the 76ers will get a night off tomorrow, and return to action on Tuesday in Indiana against the tanking Pacers. The last matchup against Indiana came in November with the Sixers losing in disappointing fashion early in the season.

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Mandatory Credit: USA Today