By: Kylan Watson

The Philadelphia 76ers were riding high as they had won three straight games and were looking to push the streak to four. They faced a game Washington Wizards squad, but Philly used a dominant first quarter, strong shooting, and strong defense to wash Washington 127-101.

The Sixers got center Joel Embiid back tonight, and he immediately made his presence felt. He scored 19 of his 20-points by half-time. In the first quarter he was all over the court. He had an emphatic block to nuff out an easy opportunity for Washington. By the end of the first quarter Philly was up by 17. The first quarter really decided the game for the Sixers. They were able to limit the Wizards by effectively shutting down guard Bradley Beal.

On defense on Beal, “We trapped him a lot, and starting Matisse on him… We definitely put an x on him. I like how we defended and move the ball today,” said 76ers Head Coach Doc Rivers.

Despite Beal being relatively ineffective, the Wizards were able to cut Philly’s lead to ten in the third quarter. Thanks to guard Russell Westbrook. He scored 22-points and really kept the Wizards in the game with his scoring and defense. However, he did not get much help thanks to the strong perimeter defense of Philadelphia.

The Sixers won this game handedly, but it was not all good for them. Late in the third quarter Embiid landed awkwardly on his knee. He was down on the ground and will need an MRI on his knee. Philly collectively holds it breathe for this medical exam.

On Embiid’s injury, “I’m not going to speculate. Tomorrow we’ll have all of the information with you. Hope for the best,” said Rivers.

Philly now has a four-game win streak and will get another weapon back on Sunday as guard/forward Ben Simmons may be back if he tests negative. The Sixers will need another strong night on both sides of the ball.  To keep the San Antonio Spurs down on Sunday.