The New Orleans Pelicans weren’t supposed to make life as difficult as they did for the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday evening.
But they did.
With Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart, Jonas Valanciunas, Devonte’ Graham, Kira Lewis Jr. and Zion Williamson all unavailable, no one would have been surprised if Philly built a sizable lead early and then ran away with the game.
But they didn’t.
The Pelicans ultimately fell 117-107; however, the outcome of this contest was very much in doubt until the waning minutes. The 76ers seizing the victory required a highly focused effort throughout the entirety of the second half, and Joel Embiid performing like an MVP.