In a thrilling matchup on Monday evening in Charlotte, Tyrese Maxey delivered a standout performance, amassing 40 points, while Paul George contributed significantly with 33 points, leading the Philadelphia 76ers to a decisive 121-108 victory over the Charlotte Hornets. This game marked LaMelo Ball’s return from a seven-game absence due to a calf strain, yet the Hornets were unable to capitalize on his presence.

 
Maxey and George exhibited remarkable shooting prowess, sinking 12 of 21 attempts from three-point range. In addition to their contributions, Kelly Oubre Jr. added 19 points for the 76ers, and Andre Drummond, stepping in for the sidelined Joel Embiid, secured 15 rebounds. The 76ers improved their record to 8-16 with this win.

 
Miles Bridges led the Hornets with 24 points, while Nick Richards made a notable impact off the bench, contributing 19 points. Ball, playing nearly 26 minutes, ended his night with 15 points and 11 assists, helping the team get some momentum. This game was the first chance for the Hornets to showcase their projected starting lineup this season. However, just over a quarter into the game, Brandon Miller suffered a left ankle sprain during a drive with 8:20 left, forcing him to exit.

 
Observations from the game highlighted the reliance of the 76ers on George and Maxey due to Embiid’s absence from a sinus fracture. Their explosive first half saw them combine for 44 points out of Philadelphia’s total of 54, with a commendable 9 of 16 shooting from three-point territory. Conversely, the Hornets struggled to find their rhythm throughout the game, facing difficulties in getting their offensive plays to connect, particularly with the 76ers effectively limiting Miller’s scoring opportunities.

 
One of the game’s pivotal moments occurred when the Hornets managed to trim the 76ers lead to just five points. George responded by sinking a fadeaway jumper in the lane and converting a three-point play after drawing a foul, helping to extend Philadelphia’s lead back to 13 points.

 
Statistically, the Hornets struggled at the free-throw line, finishing the game shooting only 11 for 19. Looking ahead, the 76ers are set to face off against the Hornets again on Friday, while the Hornets will be traveling to take on the Wizards on Thursday night.