Paul George delivered a standout performance, scoring 29 points to lead the Philadelphia 76ers to a 110-104 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday night.
The win marked the first time this season the Sixers have secured back-to-back victories, improving their record to 5-14.
Tyrese Maxey added 21 points, including eight clutch points in the final 30 seconds, to seal the victory for Philadelphia. Jared McCain contributed 17 points off the bench, and Kelly Oubre chipped in 14 as the Sixers showed signs of improvement, closing out their NBA Cup Group A play with a 2-2 record.
Hornets Fight Back
Despite the loss, Charlotte’s Brandon Miller was electric, finishing with a game-high 34 points, including seven three-pointers in the second half. Nick Richards also made a strong impact with 22 points and 14 rebounds, continuing to impress in his return from injury. However, the Hornets’ efforts fell short as they wrapped up their homestand winless at 0-5, dropping to 6-15 on the season.
Rookies Tidjane Salaun and K.J. Simpson offered glimpses of potential for Charlotte. Salaun posted his first career double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Simpson contributed eight points, nine assists, and six rebounds. Their performances underscore the Hornets’ investment in youth development amid their struggles.
Late-Game Heroics
Philadelphia held a double-digit lead for much of the game, but Charlotte mounted a furious rally late in the fourth quarter. Miller drained his seventh three-pointer of the half to give the Hornets a brief lead with 1:32 left on the clock. However, Maxey responded in crunch time, slicing through the defense for a go-ahead layup with 29.7 seconds remaining.
Maxey then delivered the dagger with four clutch free throws and a transition layup, showcasing his composure under pressure. Meanwhile, Miller’s missed floater in the closing moments sealed Charlotte’s fate.
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Takeaways
76ers: Philadelphia is finding its rhythm, with the team winning three of its last five games. The offense showed improved ball movement, creating open looks and capitalizing on Charlotte’s defensive lapses. George’s efficiency, going 10-for-16 from the field and 6-for-9 from deep, was pivotal in setting the tone.
Hornets: While the loss stings, Charlotte saw promising flashes from their young players. Salaun’s double-double and Simpson’s all-around contributions provide hope for the future. On the downside, Mark Williams looked understandably rusty in his first game back in nearly a year, managing just four points and three rebounds in limited minutes.
Key Moment
The turning point came with less than a minute remaining. Trailing by two, Miller missed a floater that could have tied the game. Philadelphia quickly capitalized, with Maxey extending the lead on the other end.
Key Stat
Paul George’s sharpshooting played a critical role in the Sixers’ success. He finished the game shooting 10-of-16 from the field, including an impressive 6-of-9 from beyond the arc.
Up Next
The 76ers look to continue their momentum when they host the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night. The Hornets, on the other hand, hit the road to face the New York Knicks on Thursday, aiming to snap their five-game skid.
As the Sixers begin to round into form, their latest victory highlights the potential of a roster led by George and Maxey. Meanwhile, the Hornets face an uphill battle, but their young core offers a glimpse of what could be a brighter future.
