Following a quick one-game road trip, the Philadelphia 76ers were back on their home floor to face the New Orleans Pelicans. This matchup was originally supposed to take place in mid-December but was postponed due to health and safety protocols. 

Despite being without multiple key players, the Pelicans managed to make things interesting Tuesday night. They even carried an eight-point lead into halftime. The second half didn't go as they may have hoped. Thanks to big performances from two Sixers, Philadelphia was able to come away with a 117-107 victory. Here are some observations from the matchup. 

1) Tale of two halves 

The opening two quarters did not go as scripted for the Sixers. They appeared to be sleepwalking at times, and New Orleans managed to take full advantage. Being shorthanded did not faze them as they took it right to Joel Embiid and company. 

Similar to their meeting with the Orlando Magic last week, the Sixers used halftime as an opportunity to sharpen their focus. It did not take long for them to lock in and both ends and take complete control of the game. The Pelicans attempted to pull off a run or two in hopes of getting back within striking distance, but it was of little use. 

Playing down to lesser opponents has been an issue for the Sixers at times. But they are learning from past mistakes. Even with lackluster performances in opening halves, the group has managed to flip the switch and take care of business when needed. 

2) Tobias Harris keeps rolling along

After a lot of up-and-down play to open the season, Tobias Harris continued to piece together strong performances. Tuesday is among his best of the year as he posted 33 points and 11 rebounds in 39 minutes of action. 

Along with posting big numbers, Harris is also back to shooting the ball with great efficiency. He connected on 13 of his 19 shot attempts against the Pelicans, including a stellar 3-for-3 from beyond the arc. 

Whatever was troubling Harris at the beginning of the season seems to be a non-factor now. His recent stretch of games continues to resemble the player we grew accustomed to seeing last year. This return to form has provided a tremendous boost for the Sixers as they look to keep their momentum rolling. 

3) Joel Embiid's continued dominance 

At this point, it's impossible to discuss a Sixers' game without mentioning the other-worldly play of Joel Embiid. The All-Star center ripped off another dominant performance Tuesday as he slowly climbs up the MVP ladder. In 33 minutes of work, he tallied 42 points, 14 rebounds, and four assists.

No matter what is needed on a nightly basis, Embiid is there to lead the Sixers. Whether it's delivering a big shot in the final minutes or getting a stop on defense, there is nothing he cannot do. Embiid's rim protection was on full display against New Orleans as he tied his season-high with four blocked shots. 

Embiid has cemented himself as the NBA's most unstoppable force over the last two seasons. The run he has put together over the last month is a level of dominance we have not seen from the center position in quite some time.