Joel Embiid’s Long-Awaited Return Falls Flat

Joel Embiid finally made his season debut for the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday night, but it was a rough outing as he struggled to find his rhythm against the New York Knicks.

The Knicks came out on top with a 111-99 win in NBA Cup play, while Embiid, visibly rusty, contributed 13 points, three rebounds, five assists, and a block in 26 minutes. Although he showed moments of effort, he went just 2-for-11 from the field, scoring most of his points at the free-throw line.

Embiid’s conditioning was clearly a factor; he signaled for a break only a few minutes into the game. Having missed the first nine games of the season, six for knee management and three due to suspension, his return to NBA action after competing in the Summer Olympics took a toll on his stamina.

His lone field goal in the first half came as a three-pointer in the third quarter, but beyond that, he couldn’t get into a rhythm. On the other end, Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns seemed more than ready, delivering an impressive performance that ultimately widened New York’s lead in the fourth.

Klay Thompson Returns to Golden State, But Curry Steals the Show

In his first return to the Bay Area since signing with the Dallas Mavericks, Klay Thompson was met with nothing but love from the Golden State fans. Dubbed “Salute Captain Klay” night, the Warriors honored him with a tribute video and gifted fans white captain hats to celebrate his iconic boat rides to games.

Thompson matched his season-high with 22 points, adding four rebounds and three assists, but the night belonged to Stephen Curry, who pulled off a solo 10-0 run late in the fourth quarter, clinching the Warriors’ 120-117 victory.

Reflecting on his years in Golden State, Thompson expressed gratitude but emphasized that he’s fully focused on his new journey with the Mavericks.

While not all players receive such warm receptions upon returning, it’s clear Thompson’s legacy is alive and well in the Bay.

Pelicans’ Injury Woes Continue

In a season already beset by injuries, the New Orleans Pelicans are facing another setback as guard Jose Alvarado will be sidelined for six weeks due to a hamstring strain. The injury, which occurred in Monday’s loss to the Brooklyn Nets, adds to the Pelicans’ list of unavailable players, including Zion Williamson, Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum, Herb Jones, and Jordan Hawkins. Currently on a five-game losing streak, New Orleans sits at 3-8.

Alvarado has been a bright spot for the Pelicans, averaging 15.0 points, 5.0 assists, and 1.7 steals this month while shooting nearly 42% from three-point range. His recent back-to-back 20-point games underscored his impact on the team’s backcourt. Despite his season average of 10.7 points, Alvarado’s play has been a crucial piece of New Orleans’ rotation, especially as they’ve navigated injuries across the roster.

All Clear for Anthony Davis

After an eye injury scare against the Raptors, Lakers’ star Anthony Davis has been cleared to suit up for the team’s upcoming matchup with the Grizzlies. Davis left Sunday’s game after taking a hit to the eye while blocking a dunk, resulting in a couple of scratches and some serious redness.

With a blistering season average of 31.2 points and 10.4 rebounds per game, Davis’ return will undoubtedly be a relief for Lakers fans, who have seen him set the tone as an MVP candidate early on.

Erik Spoelstra Takes the Blame for Heat’s Costly Mistake

Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra was quick to take accountability for a late-game blunder that cost his team a 123-121 loss to the Detroit Pistons. Spoelstra quickly and angrily stormed onto the court and called for a timeout that Miami didn’t have with just 1.1 seconds left in overtime, handing the Pistons a technical free throw that Malik Beasley sank to secure the win. Spoelstra, a two-time NBA champion and Olympic gold medal coach, labelled it as a horrendous mistake, explaining that it was an emotional reaction.

His error overshadowed Tyler Herro’s incredible 40-point game, where he hit 10 threes and gave the Heat a 121-119 lead with just under two seconds left. But the Pistons’ last-second lob play to Jalen Duren sent the game to overtime, and ultimately, Spoelstra’s quick timeout call sealed Miami’s fate.

Caitlin Clark’s Golfing Dreams Remain Just a Dream for Now

WNBA star Caitlin Clark recently clarified that her playful comments about becoming a professional golfer were just that, playful. Known for her competitive spirit on the court, the Indiana Fever’s Rookie of the Year is set to tee off in Wednesday’s pro-am event at The Annika, playing alongside golf greats Nelly Korda and Annika Sörenstam.

While Clark’s no stranger to sports stardom, she admits her golf game could use some refinement, describing herself as an average golfer with a 16 handicap.

While basketball remains her priority, Clark enjoys the challenge golf provides. This isn’t her first pro-am event either; she previously participated in the 2023 John Deere Classic, where she was paired with fellow Iowan Zach Johnson.

For Clark, the point is a chance to step outside, enjoy some friendly competition, and take her competitive spirit from the court to the course, if only for a day.

That’s all for today, thanks for reading.

We’ll see you tomorrow!

— The Players Unlimited Team