It took just one game for VJ Edgecombe to immortalize him in not only Philadelphia 76ers history, but the NBA’s as well.
Edgcombe poured in 34 points against the Boston Celtics in his rookie debut – the third-highest scoring debut in NBA history and most ever by a 76ers rookie, surpassing Allen Iverson.
His efforts helped the 76ers (1-0) edge the Celtics (0-1) 117-116 at TD Garden on Wednesday night. This win marks the first time Philadelphia is above .500 since April 14th, 2024 and the first time it has won a season-opener since the 2021-22 campaign. Edgecombe’s historic outing was one of many pivotal observations in the 76ers’ first victory of the new year.
Inside Edgecombe’s excellence
Edgecombe recorded his first NBA score less than six minutes into the first quarter as he drove off the catch en route to an emphatic dunk, which signified the masterclass to come.
His mix of burst and athleticism served him well offensively, especially when attacking the rim. He had no problem shredding defenders one-on-one, often using swift penetration to create space. This shined most in transition where Edgecombe continually broke down Boston’s unset defense for high-percentage layups.
If that wasn’t convincing enough, he shot 5-13 from deep and led the 76ers in attempted threes. Many were concerned that Edgecombe’s floor-spacing could detriment Philadelphia’s offense, but more often than not, he capitalized off spot-up opportunities and made Boston pay for ignoring him.
He concluded the night with 34 points on 13-26 shooting from the field, seven rebounds, and three assists.
Embiid played basketball
Joel Embiid followed up his encouraging preseason performance with an equally disappointing regular season debut. A minutes restriction limited him to 20 minutes where he notched just four points on 1-9 shooting from the field, six rebounds, and two assists.
Embiid was less impactful on both ends of the court compared to his lone preseason outing. He was late to rotate, especially when closing out on Xavier Tillman or providing interior help. The Celtics prevented him from finding his footing offensively as Jaylen Brown guarded him, which allowed a help defender to roam from the weak-side to double nearly every time Embiid touched the ball.
Given Embiid’s volatile recovery from his arthroscopic procedure on his left knee, it’s natural for him to endure highs and lows. Philadelphia must remain patient as Embiid listens to his body.
Other important stuff
Edgecombe was so impressive that Tyrese Maxey (40 points and six assists) was nearly an afterthought. Like the rookie, Maxey found great success attacking in early offense – drilling above-the-break threes and seeking the interior off the dribble. The two guards epitomize the 76ers’ desire to push tempo.
However, Philadelphia’s halfcourt offense left much to be desired. The 76ers’ lack of spacing encouraged the Celtics to pack the interior as Maxey and Edgecombe were the only players to nail more than two threes. Philadelphia’s offense lacked structure in non-transition scenarios and its lack of point guard play was evident in non-Maxey and Embiid minutes.
With Paul George (knee) and Trendon Watford (hamstring) sidelined, Nick Nurse started Domick Barlow and he seized the moment. Barlow posted 13 points on 4-8 shooting from the field, eight rebounds, and five assists. He continues to do the little things such as rebounding, making connective passes, and providing constant energy.
The 76ers will face the Charlotte Hornets (1-0) in their home-opener on October 25th at 7:30 p.m. EST.