To prepare for the resumption of the NBA season, Philadelphia, deprived of Joel Embiid, was beaten by Oklahoma City (97-102). In Boston, the return of Kemba Walker brought the confidence to beat Phoenix (117-103).
Preparation for the end of the NBA season continues and franchises are forced to adjust to the absences of their stars. In the first game this Sunday, an all-star was missing. Joel Embiid’s forfeit was noticed on the Philadelphia side. Without the Cameroonian pivot, affected in the calf, the Sixers were surprised by Oklahoma City (97-102). The match shifted in favor of Chris Paul’s teammates in the last quarter. With 16 points, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has established himself more as the Thunder’s number 1 offensive weapon. But for a long time this was not enough. Philadelphia was able to count on Ben Simmons to don the leader costume and stay alive. If the Australian did not dare to take the slightest 3-point shot, he did not go far from the triple-double: 14 points, 11 rebounds, 9 assists. Shifted to post 4, he made his versatility speak while Shake Milton is increasingly required to lead. When Joel Embiid returns, Philadelphia could be really dangerous with this new system.
Kemba Walker has played!
In Boston, Kemba Walker was able to play his first minutes in the bubble despite a painful knee. The leader was satisfied with 9 minutes of play for six small points. It’s not much but it was enough to help the Celtics achieve great success (117-103). The young Boston guard stood out in the wake of Jaylen Brown still as efficient (21 points). With a better address, Brad Stevens’ men straightened the bar after a disappointing first outing against OKC. With 17 points, Devin Booker was the leading scorer for Suns who only competed for one period. Two French players were involved in this match: Elie Okobo did not play for Phoenix while Vincent Poirier took four rebounds in just over five minutes.
NBA / PREPARATION MATCHS
Sunday July 26, 2020 (in Orlando, in camera)
Philadelphie – Oklahoma City : 97-102
Boston – Phoenix : 117-103
>>> Vincent Poirier (BOS): 4 rebounds in 6 minutes
>>> Elie Okobo (PHX) did not play
Dallas – Indiana
Toronto – Portland
Memphis – Houston
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