After winning their first two NBA playoff games in convincing fashion, things got chippy between the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets. Following some plays that were deemed excessive in Game 3, updates have emerged regarding the status of Philly’s two stars.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the league will not be further punishing Joel Embiid or James Harden. On top of that, both players will be available in the possible series-ending Game 4.
Joel Embiid was under investigation for a play involving Nets big man Nick Claxton. The Brooklyn center attempted to step over the MVP finalist while he was on the ground. Embiid did not take a liking to this, and kicked Claxton in the groin area.
NBA NEWS & PLAYOFFS: Joel Embiid, James Harden & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Many around the league reacted to each play and feel that Harden should not have been tossed for his action. Players do what he did all the time, and it’s clear that he was trying to hit O’Neale.
Despite all the chaos that ensued throughout the game, the 76ers managed to walk away with a 102-97 victory. Tyrese Maxey came up big with 25 points, and Embiid sealed the win in the final seconds with a thunderous block at the rim.
NBA NEWS & PLAYOFFS: Joel Embiid, James Harden & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Now that a final decision has been made for the two stars, the 76ers are in a prime position to put the Nets away for good. With a commanding 3-0 lead, they are just one win away from reaching the Eastern Conference semifinals. Given that Philly has dominated the series thus far, it’s hard to imagine they won’t finish off Brooklyn in Game 4 with Embiid and Harden in the lineup.
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