Joel Embiid, who had been sidelined since Jan. 30 with a meniscus injury, finished with 24 points, including the game-sealing free throws after a late steal on Josh Giddey led to Embiid getting fouled in transition with 25 seconds remaining. That swipe was the center’s third of the night; he added seven assists and six rebounds while going a perfect 12-of-12 from the line in 29 minutes as the 76ers won 109-105.
The 76ers star seemed certain to miss Tuesday’s matchup until he was suddenly upgraded to questionable just hours ahead of the game. Embiid then confirmed his return.