CAMDEN, N.J. — The Philadelphia 76ers have their star big man back in the lineup. Joel Embiid returned in a big way on Monday. He had 33 points, 10 rebounds and five assists while leading the Sixers to a much-needed 100-88 win over the Phoenix Suns.
In the win, Paul Reed provided some really good defensive minutes against Phoenix’s big man, DeAndre Ayton, as the backup center. Reed and the Sixers held him to 1-for-5 shooting in the critical fourth quarter.
After the win, coach Doc Rivers revealed the backup center spot will be decided on a night-to-night basis between Reed and Montrezl Harrell.
“It’s just what it is,” said Rivers. “I love Paul’s defense and his energy, and we’re also gonna play him at the 4 at times. Trez has his moments as well. I think you guys have seen that. So that’s the good thing. We’ve really not run into anyone size-wise that has overwhelmed us when those two guys have been in. It’s not that many bigs that can do that. Usually, Joel would match up with.”
Reed, who has been through this often to begin his career, understands that this is nothing new and he has found a way to embrace this situation. He keeps his head down and continues to work on his game.
“At first, it was a little challenging,” Reed added. “I kind of prepared my mind mentally to be able to handle it and it’s been working for me.”
The young big man knows he has to be ready for anything considering the backup center situation at the moment. Reed stays mentally ready by understanding where he is and knowing that if he puts the work in, he will be rewarded in the long run.
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