Jerami Grant led the charge with 27 points as the Portland Trail Blazers capitalized on Joel Embiid’s absence to secure a 130-104 victory against the Philadelphia 76ers during Monday’s NBA action. Malcolm Brogdon and rookie Scoot Henderson also played key roles, scoring 24 and 22 points, respectively, helping the Blazers snap a recent losing streak.
The 76ers, missing their star player Embiid due to a sore left knee, struggled to maintain their momentum, marking their third consecutive loss. Kelly Oubre Jr. stepped up for Philadelphia with 25 points, but the team’s performance was hampered without Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
The Blazers’ offense came alive, particularly in the second half, extending their lead significantly and showcasing their potential for synergy and cohesive play, as Blazers coach Chauncey Billups noted.
“I just think our guys are starting to get some synergy with each other,” Blazers coach Chauncey Billups said. “They’re starting to get to know each other, and it’s fun to watch. We just keep talking about moving it, moving it, moving it. I don’t know who’s shot it’s going to be.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers, Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
This game also saw Portland achieving their largest victory margin of the season, a significant feat given it was the second game of a back-to-back.
Embiid’s absence was particularly felt, as the reigning MVP has been a pivotal player for the 76ers, contributing significantly to their success this season. His eligibility for awards this season is contingent on his participation in upcoming games, adding another layer of complexity to Philadelphia’s challenges.
“Had a good start to the game, first quarter defensively was excellent. Pretty much through the second quarter too until about four minutes to go,” 76ers coach Nick Nurse said. “They went on a big run, a lot of stuff at the rim and dunks and things like that. We just never really got back to guarding the ball.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers, Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Despite an initial defensive stronghold, the 76ers couldn’t sustain their guard, allowing the Blazers to dominate and pull away decisively in the third quarter. The game’s outcome left Philadelphia reflecting on their defensive lapses and needing to adapt without key players.
“It was too easy for them coming out in the third quarter,” 76ers forward Tobias Harris said. “That hurt us. That gave them a lot of momentum, and that was when the game slipped away.”
As the teams move forward, the 76ers look to regroup against the Golden State Warriors, while the Trail Blazers anticipate hosting the Milwaukee Bucks and facing former teammate Damian Lillard.
