Tyrese Maxey led the way with 28 points, while Buddy Hield contributed 23 in his second outing for Philadelphia, as the 76ers ended a four-game slide with a 119-113 win over the Washington Wizards during Saturday’s NBA action.
Rookie Ricky Council IV impressed with 19 points and 10 rebounds in the absence of Joel Embiid, the seven-time All-Star sidelined for the sixth game following left knee surgery. Council’s performance in his 11th NBA game, notably his first exceeding 12 minutes of play, drew high praise from Maxey for his contributions on both ends of the court and crucial late-game plays.
“He was big time,” Maxey said. “He balled. Defensively, offensively, energy-wise. He got some big buckets down the stretch. I’m proud of him.”
Maxey, who returned after missing a game due to illness, nearly achieved a triple-double with his scoring, rebounding, and assists. Hield, freshly arrived from Indiana via a three-team trade, has hit over 20 points in back-to-back games for the first time since late November, showcasing the dynamic potential of the Maxey-Hield duo, as noted by coach Nick Nurse.
“It’s just hard to guard when there’s speed on the ball and shooting and shooting off the ball,” Nurse said.
The 76ers dominated the boards with a 48-39 rebounding advantage. They secured critical offensive rebounds in the fourth quarter to maintain their lead, with Council playing a pivotal role in their effort to stay ahead in the Eastern Conference standings.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers, Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards Updates
Ricky Council IV expressed excitement about contributing to the team, emphasizing the simplicity of playing hard and being oneself on the court.
“It’s unreal right now,” Council said. “But once you out there, it’s pretty simple. Just play hard and be yourself.”
Tyus Jones had a season-best performance with 25 points and six 3-pointers for the Wizards, but the team’s losing streak extended to six under interim coach Brian Keefe. Despite Deni Avdija’s and Kyle Kuzma’s efforts, who added 21 points each, Washington couldn’t overcome an early deficit, even as they narrowed the gap to two points in the fourth quarter.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers, Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards Updates
Philadelphia countered Washington’s surge with crucial plays, including putbacks from Kelly Oubre Jr. and Council, to maintain a comfortable lead till the end. Council’s aggressive play and late free throws helped seal the victory for the 76ers. By embracing his role on the team, Council described himself as driven and focused, a mindset that shines through in his play.
“I just feel like I’m a dog,” Council said. “A lot of people say it, but not a lot of people about it. When I’m out there, I don’t know, I can’t really explain it. I don’t see nothing but the goal and my teammates.” UP NEXT
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers, Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards Updates
The 76ers are set to face the Cleveland Cavaliers, while the Wizards will take on the Dallas Mavericks, both games scheduled for Monday night.
