Joel Embiid powered the Philadelphia 76ers to another win on Thursday night, as they steamrolled past the Los Angeles Lakers, 105-87.
Embiid finished with another all-around performance to the tune of 26 points, nine rebounds, seven assists, and two blocks. With the win over the LeBron James-less Lakers, the Sixers improved to 29-19. While most players would be pleased with the numbers Embiid produced, the talented big man is his own's toughest critic (via ESPN).
“I was not very good tonight, so I was happy my teammates were able to pick me up.”
Embiid was probably citing his 9-of-20 shooting from the field and four turnovers. It's apparent that since putting up monster numbers for the Sixers for the past two weeks, the recently named All-Star starter now has even higher expectations of himself.
In terms of numbers, Lakers big man Anthony Davis outplayed Embiid. AD, in his second straight outing since his return from injury, had 31 points, 12 rebounds, two steals, and four blocks. He also shot 14-of-21 from the floor.
After the game, Davis only had good words for Embiid.
“It's always fun playing against another great big. He's been on a tear. Putting the team on his back. We knew it was going to be a tough matchup going in.”
For sure, Embiid would be appreciative of Davis' compliments. But to him, he didn't put the Sixers on his back against the Lakers and deflected credit to his teammates instead. Maybe he needs to smile a bit and not be too hard on himself.
One thing cannot be refuted though: Watching Embiid and Davis battle will always be a treat.
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