The Philadelphia 76ers continued their west coast swing Friday night as they faced off against the Los Angeles Clippers. Being without their top players in Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, Joel Embiid and the Sixers went on to take care of business rather handily. They broke out to a big lead early and never let the Clippers get back within striking distance. 

At this point in the season, performances like this are essential. The Sixers came out, took care of business, and got their key players an early exit. When all was said and done, they walked out of Crypto.com arena with a 122-97 victory. Here are some grades from the matchup. 

Sixers grades

Tobias Harris: B

Friday was far from a flashy night for Tobias Harris but was another solid outing for the veteran forward. In 24 minutes of action, he tallied 12 points, two rebounds, two assists, and one steal. 

The numbers don't jump off the page, but what should stand out is how well Harris shot the ball. He connected on five of his ten attempts from the field, including going 2-for-5 from beyond the arc. It is also worth noting Harris continues to confidently take open catch-and-shoot three when the ball swings his way. 

On a night like this, Harris was not asked to do much. With James Harden and Joel Embiid putting up big numbers, all he had to do is fill in the gaps. That being said, Harris being able to pick his spots and have an efficient night shooting-wise lands him a B on tonight's report card. 

Matisse Thybulle: A- 

The main discussion regarding Matisse Thybulle is will he ever be effective enough on the offensive end to play long stretches. Outings like he had Friday are a testament to why the Sixers are undefeated when the defensive specialist breaks double figures. 

In terms of output on offense, this is what the Sixers need from Thybulle consistently. He doesn't have to score an absurd amount of points, just enough for Doc Rivers to be able to keep him on the floor. Thybulle tallied 13 points in the win over the Clippers while shooting an impressive 5-for-6 from the field. 

Rivers has preached about getting Thybulle in different positions to score, and they were on full display against LA. Between transition baskets, easy breakaways off steals, and even stepping out to make his only three-point attempt, he found multiple ways to do damage offensively. When Thybulle is being this effective on offense, he becomes one of the Sixers' biggest X-factors. 

James Harden: A+ 

Easily the biggest standout of the night for the Sixers was James Harden. After a minor injury scar last game against the Lakers, the All-Star guard put on a masterclass against the Clippers. He finished the night as the team's leader in points (29), rebounds (15), and assists (7). 

This is the former MVP the Sixers made a big splash for at the trade deadline. Harden got it going early, played a key role in running away with this game early. His strong play even carried over to the defensive end, where he racked up a pair of steals and a block. 

Friday was by far one of Harden's best all-around performances in a Sixers uniform. Rivers has urged him to be more aggressive on offense, and nights like this are why. When Harden starts scoring in bunches, it opens up more passing lanes for him to get others involved with his playmaking. 

Finding the proper balance between scorer and facilitator has been tricky for Harden. But based on this outing, he seems to be finding his comfort zone.