Andre Drummond will not return to the Philadelphia 76ers' matchup against the San Antonio Spurs due to a left great toe contusion, according to reports from Austin Krell of USA Today. The center had only managed to log seven minutes on the court, finishing with two points (1-2 FG), three rebounds, and one assist before exiting.
This injury adds to the 76ers' woes as they aim to maintain their competitive edge. Drummond's timeout came just after he made his way back on the court following a contentious sequence. Earlier, he was ejected after receiving two technical fouls during the second quarter. With just over eight minutes left, Drummond was penalized when Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama fell hard, but upon review, it was deemed he exaggerated the fall, leading to Drummond's return. Unfortunately, this return was short-lived as the toe injury sidelined him once again.
The 76ers had to adjust quickly without both Drummond and fellow center Joel Embiid, who had been ejected after arguing with referees following his own technical fouls. Interestingly, the game continued without their two main big men, with Guerschon Yabusele and KJ Martin stepping up to fill the gap.
Despite the challenges and having to rely on younger players, the 76ers managed to pull out a 111-106 victory over the Spurs. Tyrese Maxey stood out significantly, scoring 32 points, alongside ten rebounds and five three-pointers. His leadership ensured Philadelphia remained competitive, even with the setbacks of losing their offensive key players. Maxey demonstrated his clutch ability at pivotal moments, especially down the stretch, where he executed important steals and decisive shots.
While reflecting on the game's atmosphere, it’s evident the Wells Fargo Center crowd was buzzing when Drummond made his brief entrance back onto the court. The applause welcomed him back, but the excitement quickly turned to disappointment as he left again. Fans expressed their frustration not just at the abrupt injury, but also at the ejections of both Drummond and Embiid, questioning whether the referees were too strict on both players. Many were left to wonder, is it Embiid’s temper or the unfairness from refs leading to these dismissals?
Even with Drummond and Embiid out, the 76ers’ performance showcased their depth. Their victory could be seen as not only getting one over the Spurs but also as a telling moment for the team’s resilient spirit. This win leaves them with determination, as they now prepare for the upcoming Christmas showdown against the Boston Celtics.
On the other hand, as the Spurs struggled with turnovers—19 throughout the game—their effort was commendable, showcased by impressive showings from players like Wembanyama and Stephon Castle. Wembanyama, who filled the stat sheets with 19 points, nine rebounds, four assists, and eight blocks, faced his own challenges but nevertheless highlighted his potential as he continues to develop. The Spurs displayed grit, but their inability to minimize turnovers cost them dearly.
After the game, the talk among fans and analysts alike remains whether the ejections of two of Philadelphia's key players will become a recurring theme this season. The 76ers face the constant challenge of keeping their temperaments checked, especially when their star players are involved.
With this match now behind them, the next focal point for the 76ers will be management of injuries as they move forward. Keeping both Drummond and Embiid healthy will be imperative not just for the upcoming games but for their overall success this season. Their depth did shine against the Spurs, and fans are sure to hope the same can be replicated against the Celtics on Christmas day, even when faced with tough competition.
