Player grades: Joel Embiid returns to lead Sixers past Bulls at home

PHILADELPHIA -- The Philadelphia 76ers got a bit healthier on Wednesday as they played host to the Chicago Bulls. The Sixers welcomed Paul George back after he missed 25 games due to a league suspension while Joel Embiid made his return after missing 13 games due to a right oblique strain. Embiid was dominant from the jump and he finished with 35 points, six rebounds, and seven assists to lead the Sixers to a 157-137 win over the Bulls at home.

Embiid played 28 minutes and was able to find his rhythm early for Philadelphia and help the Sixers get back in the win column as they look to make a push into the top 6 and earn a guaranteed playoff spot. VJ Edgecombe added 22 points, six rebounds, and six assists, George had 28 points, six rebounds, and four assists, and Justin Edwards added 12 points off the bench while Cam Payne had 15 points. Quentin Grimes had 13, six boards, and five assists, and Dominick Barlow had nine points, five rebounds, five assists, and two blocks.

Here are the player grades after the win: VJ Edgecombe: A-plus The rookie was aggressive with his offense early. He had a nice drive to the basket for an easy hoop and he continued to stay aggressive with his paint touches as he was able to draw fouls and get to the foul line to keep the scoreboard moving. He was efficient with his overall offense, knocked down some 3s, and was able to get into a rhythm early and often.

His playmaking and rebounding were on display in this one as well. There were a few moves he put on in this one that make one go “he shouldn’t be able to do that this early”. Edgecombe continues to be impressive in a number of aspects.