Embiid Returns to Action, But the Hawks Take the Victory in an Epic Duel
In a match marked by emotion and uncertainty, the 76ers’ Joel Embiid made his expected return to basketball, after a three-week absence. The game against the Atlanta Hawks, which went into double overtime, was full of unexpected twists and controversial refereeing decisions. The game, which ended with a score of 142-134 in favor of the Hawks, was a constant exchange of leads, with both teams feeling they had the victory secured at different times. The presence of Embiid, along with Paul George and Tyrese Maxey, for the first time this season, generated great expectation, although the development of the game overshadowed this initial milestone. The game was full of critical moments, including an “accidental” review that caused confusion at the end of the first overtime. At the end of the match, Embiid, George, and rookie VJ Edgecombe, who was also returning from an injury, were on the bench due to playing time limits. Jalen Johnson of the Hawks, with an outstanding performance of 41 points, 14 rebounds and 7 assists, surpassed Maxey, who scored 44 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists in 52 minutes.The 76ers’ comeback in the final minutes of regulation, with a 10-point run in 34 seconds, including a three-pointer by Quentin Grimes, a basket by Embiid, a layup and-1 by Dominick Barlow, and a three-pointer by Maxey, kept the game alive. “We just stayed in the fight,” commented George, who contributed 16 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists. The end of the first overtime was full of drama. After Johnson missed a shot, Maxey had the opportunity to secure the game from the free throw line, but missed both attempts. Then, a foul by Barlow on Johnson, with 0.3 seconds remaining, led to a confusing referee review. Coach Nick Nurse called for a timeout, but the referees interpreted that he had requested a review, which generated a significant delay.I think it was more about perseverance than about calmness.
Quin Snyder, Hawks coach
Finally, Johnson made both free throws, sending the game to a second overtime. By this time, Embiid could no longer play, having reached his minute limit, while Edgecombe and George were also unable to participate any further. Embiid, who had been out with knee discomfort, managed to score 18 points and stated he felt physically well after the game. Edgecombe also reported feeling well, with 7 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists. Andre Drummond, for his part, only played six minutes due to knee discomfort. On the Hawks’ side, Kristaps Porzingis missed his ninth game of the season due to illness.There was a lack of communication between the referees, and we thought that when Nurse called the timeout, he wanted to challenge the play.
James Capers, head of the officiating crew
