Player grades: Sixers fall to Cavaliers at home in critical Group A loss

PHILADELPHIA-There was a lot on the line for the Philadelphia 76ers and the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday when they met at the Wells Fargo Center. Both teams needed a win to stay alive in the in-season tournament in Group A as both teams chase the …

PHILADELPHIA–There was a lot on the line for the Philadelphia 76ers and the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday when they met at the Wells Fargo Center. Both teams needed a win to stay alive in the in-season tournament in Group A as both teams chase the Indiana Pacers who are sitting atop the standings and they own the tiebreaker over both teams.

The Sixers had a nice start in this one, but the Cavaliers eventually overwhelmed Philadelphia with their size and walked away with a 122-119 victory in overtime. The Cavaliers held a 56-44 rebounding advantage and they looked to be a bit more energetic in this one than the Sixers.

The loss means Philadelphia cannot win their group. They are also likely out of the running for the wild card spot in the East unless they get some help from other teams.

Joel Embiid had 32 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists for Philadelphia, Tyrese Maxey had 30 points and six assists, Tobias Harris added 23 points, and De’Anthony Melton added 11 points and six rebounds. Nic Batum had five points and four rebounds.

Here are the player grades following the loss: