Sixers’ Joel Embiid says he’s feeling good after 39-point eruption

Joel Embiid looked every bit like a former Most Valuable Player again Friday, torching the Pacers for 39 points as the 76ers pulled away for a 10-point win over Indiana.

Philadelphia coach Nick Nurse said the performance was the result of steady work and a body that is finally responding, according to Tony Jones of The Athletic.

Nurse pointed to Embiid’s recent practices, individual workouts, and a willingness to attack off the dribble as signs that things are trending in the right direction.

“I’ve always said that he’s best when he’s driving,” Nurse said. “He drove a lot to draw fouls early. The best thing was the variety. The 39 points were great, but they came through a lot of different schemes.”

For Embiid, the progress is tied to patience and spacing out his appearances. After dealing with knee issues, he said the current plan of playing a game and then taking two days off has allowed him to stay consistent and productive.

“I feel good,” Embiid said. “I’ve been able to do the same thing over and over again this week and not have to take a break. That’s the big thing.”

That approach has kept Embiid on the floor and effective, which is exactly what Philadelphia needs as it looks to build momentum.

There were other encouraging signs for the Sixers as well. Nurse has increasingly leaned on Paul George as a point forward, a move that has paid off. George has totaled 13 assists over the past three games, per Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer, while continuing to grow more comfortable handling the ball.

“I’m comfortable with the ball,” George said. “It’s about trusting my body and gaining confidence on the floor. I’m just adding to that confidence and building toward the season.”