NBA roundup: Embiid shines with 31 points in return, Maxey records first career triple-double

Joel Embiid of Philadelphia made a significant impact in his return to the court, scoring 31 points and securing 12 rebounds during the 76ers' 108-100 victory against Chicago on Sunday.

This performance came after he had missed seven games due to a left knee injury and personal matters, following a loss to Memphis on November 20. During his absence, the 76ers recorded a 4-3 record.

The Cameroonian center, who donned a left knee brace, also contributed four assists and two blocked shots in 33 minutes of play, marking only his fifth game of the season. "He caught fire there," remarked 76ers coach Nick Nurse, highlighting Embiid's influence on the team's confidence.

In addition, Philadelphia guard Tyrese Maxey achieved his first career NBA triple-double, finishing with 25 points, along with personal bests of 14 assists and 11 rebounds. "It was good," Maxey stated. "The offense flowed really well. The pick and roll was effective, allowing me to involve everyone, including Joel and myself."

Nurse praised Maxey's performance, noting, "He turned on the jets and got to the rim at some pretty opportune times." Embiid's presence on the court was invaluable for the 76ers.

"He creates so much space for us on the floor and draws attention," Maxey explained. "I didn't see a single pick and roll double team for the first time in a long time."

On the opposing side, Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 30 points, while no other player on the team exceeded 13 points.

In another matchup, Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Milwaukee Bucks to a 118-113 victory over the Brooklyn Nets in New York, scoring 34 points and grabbing 11 rebounds.

Damian Lillard contributed 15 points and 11 assists, while Bobby Portis added 23 points and Gary Trent Jr. scored 20 points off the bench for Milwaukee. Dennis Schroder of Germany was the standout for the Nets, leading his team with 34 points.

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