Sixers hold off timberwolves, embiid returns with a roar

Published on 04/04/2026 16:31 in sports • Jessie Sale

Philadelphia’s Joel Embiid, battling illness, delivered a crucial performance Friday night, powering the 76ers to a 115-103 victoryover the Minnesota Timberwolves. The win, punctuated by a dominant third quarter, keeps Philadelphia firmly in the playoff hunt, while Minnesota’s hopes for home-court advantage in the West face a challenge.

Embiid

Embiid's presence shifts the momentum

While Anthony Edwards struggled to find his rhythm, shooting a dismal 8-for-15, Embiid’s return after missing Wednesday’s game proved pivotal. The reigning MVP tallied 19 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists, but it was his influence in the third quarter that truly separated the teams. The Sixers unleashed a 42-24 scoring barrage, fueled by Embiid’s assertive play and a scoring burst from Tyrese Maxey.

The Timberwolves, led by Randle and Hyland’s 21 points apiece, kept within striking distance. But Minnesota’s offense sputtered, particularly with Edwards’ inefficiency from beyond the arc – a 0-for-7 night from three-point range. The Sixers’ defense capitalized, forcing turnovers and converting them into fast-break points, a sequence capped by Quentin Grimes’ consecutive layups that propelled Philadelphia to an 83-71 lead heading into the fourth.

Paul George contributed 23 points, while Maxey and Kelly Oubre Jr. added 21 each, providing crucial scoring support. Oubre’s clutch three-pointers late in the game effectively sealed the victory, pushing the Sixers’ lead to a commanding 17 points before Minnesota mounted a final, albeit brief, rally.

The Timberwolves' struggle highlights the dependence on Edwards' consistent performance. With five games remaining, the pressure mounts for Minnesota to solidify their position in the Western Conference standings. Philadelphia, holding the sixth seed in the East, will look to maintain their momentum as they prepare to face Detroit on Saturday. The Sixers’ path to the playoffs remains tight, but Embiid’s return offers a significant boost to their chances.