Sixers Get Win They Needed, As Tyrese Maxey, Paul George Erupt vs. Hornets

Tyrese Maxey and Paul George each erupted for 40 and 33 points, respectively, powering the Philadelphia 76ers to a 121-108 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Monday night.

Maxey and George were lights out from beyond the arc, combining to shoot 12 of 21 from three-point range. Their offensive firepower helped the 76ers overcome the absence of Joel Embiid, who was sidelined with a sinus fracture.

Kelly Oubre Jr. also contributed with 19 points, and Andre Drummond made a significant impact, pulling down 15 rebounds in the starting role for Embiid.

Despite the offensive explosion from Maxey and George, it was the defense and team chemistry that kept the 76ers in control throughout the night.

For the Hornets, it was a bittersweet return for LaMelo Ball, who had missed the last seven games due to a strained calf. Ball posted 15 points and 11 assists in just under 26 minutes of action, but the Hornets could never fully recover from the loss of forward Brandon Miller.

Miller injured his left ankle midway through the final quarter and did not return, leaving Charlotte shorthanded in a game they were already struggling to control.

Miles Bridges was a bright spot for the Hornets, scoring 24 points, while Nick Richards added 19 off the bench. However, the Hornets’ starting unit, which was finally complete for the first time this season, never found its rhythm.

Charlotte also struggled from the foul line, finishing just 11 of 19 from the stripe, which contributed to their inability to close the gap.

The 76ers, improving to 8-16, will look to carry this momentum into their next matchup against the Hornets on Friday. The Hornets (7-19) will visit the Wizards on Thursday.

• More 76ers | All Hoops Wire coverage