James Harden Highlights Joel Embiid’s Efficiency vs. Celtics

The Philadelphia 76ers needed Joel Embiid to go above and beyond to defeat a tough Boston Celtics team. With the Sixers struggling as a whole, the six-time All-Star didn’t have much help on the offensive end of the floor outside of the ten-time All-Star guard, James Harden.

Harden and Embiid combined for 42 shots from the field. The point guard knocked down seven of his attempts and drained four of his nine attempts from deep. Harden wrapped up the game with a double-double, scoring 20 points and dishing out ten assists.

While Harden was a critical helping hand to Embiid, who had to do a little bit of everything to will the Sixers to a win on Tuesday, Embiid was close to a one-man show. As the regular season winds down, and the MVP race isn’t decided during the final week, Embiid had one of his better performances of the year on Tuesday as he scored 52 points in 38 minutes.

“I don’t remember him missing a shot,” said Harden. “That’s an efficient 50. One of the most efficient 50s I’ve seen. For being at the elbow, sweet spot, he made the right decision the majority of the time. His shot was falling. He made some really good passes. We’re gonna need that consistency from him.”

After the game, Sixers head coach Doc Rivers declared the MVP race over, claiming that Embiid should have it locked up after his spectacular performance against Boston. Harden agreed with that sentiment after seeing his teammate put one of his most impressive performances on display.

“He should win it,” Harden said of Embiid. “He’s been in contention for these last few years. He was the leading scorer last year, and it looks like he’s gonna be the leading scorer this year. We’re third-seed in the East, and he’s been playing the best — consistent all year.”

Going into Tuesday’s game, Embiid was averaging 33 points, ten rebounds, four assists, one steal, and two blocks. Against the Celtics, he put up 52 points, came down with 13 rebounds, and produced six assists while blocking two shots.

The Sixers barely made it out of Tuesday’s game with a victory, but thanks to Embiid’s dominant showing, Philly defeated their rivals 103-101 to improve their record to 52-27.

Justin Grasso covers the Philadelphia 76ers for All76ers, a Sports Illustrated channel. You can follow him for live updates on Twitter: @JGrasso_.