Sixers vs Cavaliers Player Grades:
Sixers Fall to Cavaliers 121-132
Philadelphia 76ers Player Grades
Starters
Tyrese Maxey
Maxey was the primary engine of the Sixers' offense, putting up 27 points and 9 assists to keep Philadelphia in the game. He showed great scoring versatility but the 5 turnovers were costly in a close contest.
Despite his efforts, Cleveland's defense was too stingy down the stretch as the Sixers couldn't quite close it out.
VJ Edgecombe
Edgecombe had a rough night shooting the ball, going just 3-for-14 from the field and 0-for-5 from three. While he contributed 4 assists, the lack of offensive efficiency was a major problem.
This was one of his worst performances as a pro, and the Sixers couldn't afford that kind of shooting with Maxey as the only consistent scorer.
Kelly Oubre Jr.
Oubre stayed consistent with 19 points and a solid 50% from three (4-for-8). He hit key shots throughout the game and gave solid two-way effort on both ends of the court.
However, he couldn't quite carry enough of the offensive load alongside Maxey to overcome Cleveland's dominant defensive effort.
Adem Bona
Bona had just 4 points in 18 minutes and shot a poor 40% from the free throw line. While he chipped in with 2 blocks defensively, that's not enough offensive production from the starting center.
The Sixers needed more from him in this tight game, especially given how much Cleveland's bigs were contributing.
Jabari Walker
Walker played 8 minutes and didn't even attempt a shot. He contributed nothing offensively, and in a game where every possession matters, this is a grade he wants to forget.
The Sixers couldn't afford a non-contributor in the lineup during such a close contest.
Bench
Quentin Grimes
Grimes was an absolute spark plug off the bench with 27 points on efficient 60% shooting. He was aggressive attacking the rim and knocked down 8 of 9 free throws at a high volume.
This was one of the best performances by a reserve in recent memory, and he single-handedly kept the Sixers alive in a game they nearly won.
Trendon Watford
Watford was perfect from three and the free throw line, scoring 16 points efficiently. His 6 assists were crucial for the second unit's playmaking, and he provided solid perimeter defense.
Another strong contribution from the bench that helped keep this game competitive.
Andre Drummond
Drummond put up another double-double with 13 points and 13 rebounds, shooting an impressive 85% from the field. His 4 offensive rebounds were instrumental in keeping possessions alive.
Consistent production from the backup big, though even his strong performance wasn't enough to overcome the deficit.
Justin Edwards
Edwards contributed 8 points and hit a couple of threes in limited action. He played solid defense and gave the team a spark when called upon.
Good effort in 16 minutes, though his limited minutes meant he couldn't have a bigger impact on the game.
Johni Broome
Broome appeared in just 1 minute with no offensive production. Hard to assess much from minimal playing time, but the Sixers simply didn't need him in this matchup.
Hunter Sallis
Sallis had a rough showing in his 1 minute of action, recording a turnover with no other contribution. Limited opportunity meant he couldn't make an impact.