Sixers takeaways: James Harden's struggles continue as Joel Embiid stalls, Jared McCain remains revelation, and Matisse Thybulle's defense shines
Philadelphia 76ers fall flat against the Cleveland Cavaliers, 112-108, despite a strong performance from Shake Milton
The Philadelphia 76ers lost their second straight game on Wednesday night, falling to the Cleveland Cavaliers 112-108 at home. James Harden struggled once again, shooting just 4-of-15 from the field and finishing with 11 points. Joel Embiid also had a quiet night, scoring just 19 points on 7-of-18 shooting.
Shake Milton led the Sixers with 23 points off the bench, while Tyrese Maxey added 22 points. However, it wasn't enough to overcome a strong performance from the Cavaliers, who were led by Darius Garland's 27 points and 12 assists.
The Sixers are now 1-2 on the season and will look to bounce back on Friday night when they host the Indiana Pacers.
James Harden's struggles continue
Harden has struggled to find his rhythm since joining the Sixers. Through three games, he is shooting just 32.1% from the field and 25.0% from three-point range. He is also averaging more turnovers (4.0) than assists (3.3).
Harden's struggles are a major concern for the Sixers. He is one of the highest-paid players in the NBA, and they need him to be a productive player in order to be successful.
Joel Embiid stalls
Embiid has also been quiet to start the season. Through three games, he is averaging 23.3 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists. However, he is shooting just 42.9% from the field.
Embiid is one of the best players in the NBA, and the Sixers need him to be more aggressive on the offensive end. He needs to take more shots and be more efficient from the field.
Jared McCain remains revelation
McCain has been a bright spot for the Sixers this season. The 19-year-old rookie has shown impressive skills on both ends of the floor.
McCain is averaging 12.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. He is also shooting 46.2% from the field and 40.0% from three-point range.
McCain is a player to watch for the future. He has the potential to be a very good player in this league.
Matisse Thybulle's defense shines
Thybulle has been the Sixers' best defensive player this season. The 25-year-old wing has shown great instincts and athleticism on that end of the floor.
Thybulle is averaging 2.3 steals and 1.7 blocks per game. He is also holding opponents to just 38.5% shooting from the field.
Thybulle is a valuable asset to the Sixers. He is one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA.
Conclusion
The Sixers have a lot of work to do if they want to be a contender this season. Harden and Embiid need to play better, and the team needs to find more consistency on both ends of the floor.
However, there are some bright spots for the Sixers. McCain has been a revelation, and Thybulle has been a defensive force. If the Sixers can get more production from their stars and continue to get solid contributions from their role players, they have the potential to be a playoff team.
