Nick Nurse Shares Thoughts on Joel Embiid's Debut vs. Hawks

The biggest story for the Philadelphia 76ers heading into their final preseason game was the return on Joel Embiid. After missing the team's first three matchups, the reigning MVP made his long awaited debut.

Embiid showed some signs of rust, but still put together a good outing in a win over the Hawks. Despite shooting 3-for-12, he managed to score 21 points thanks to 14 made free-throws. The All-Star center also posted five rebounds, two assists, two steals, and one block.

After the game, Sixers coach Nick Nurse was asked his thoughts on Embiid's debut. He cited that rhythm and conditioning were key points for him tonight, but was pleased with his play on both ends.

"Yeah listen, it was a real rhythm, conditioning night for him. I think it looked like his legs were not quite there a bit here and there. I thought he may come out in the second half, I thought he made it a conservative effort to be really hard to guard, right? I thought he kept really good energy on the defensive end," Nurse said. "I just thought he looked really active at that end considering, kind of, the game and how much he’s played in a game, all that kind of stuff. So, I thought his effort in the second half was really good."

With just one preseason game under his belt, Embiid now begins preparing for a big-time matchup on opening night. On Thursday night, the Sixers begin their regular season schedule on the road against Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks.