CLEVELAND Joel EmbiidHis own actions caused a lot of destruction. But the Cavaliers believed that the big man received unwarranted help.
J.B. Bickerstaff, Cleveland coach, was harshly critical of the officiating following Embiid’s 44-point performance and 20 free-throw attempts in Philadelphia’s 112-108 victory over the Cavs.
Bickerstaff stated, “That game was taken away from us.” “We deserved it to win it.”
Embiid also added 17 rebounds. James HardenAs the Philadelphia 76ers secured a playoff spot, he had 21 points and 10 rebounds as well as 10 assists.
Embiid came into the game with a sore foot and it was questionable if he would play. The 7-footer was able to play and scored 12 points in the fourth quarter.
He made 17 free throws, had five blocks, and made three 3-pointers.
Bickerstaff was not denying Harden or Embiid anything, but he was unhappy with the discrepancy in fouls. In a game of playoff intensity, Cleveland was called for 28 fouls to Philadelphia’s 19.
Bickerstaff stated, “The only thing you can’t defend it is the free throw line and that’s absurd,” referring to the Sixers 42 attempted foul shots (35 which they made). “Our guys deserve way more than what they got tonight.
He said Philly’s All-Stars are “great players and they know how to play through all the rules.” They are able to understand the rules. These guys are not to be criticized. However, the game must be consistent on both sides of the floor. We tried to find that consistency, but it was not there.
Darius GarlandScored 23 Caris LeVertAnd Lamar StevensThey had 18 each for the Cavs, who were able to play without their injured 7-footers Evan MobleyAnd Jarrett AllenHowever, he fought to the final against one of the East’s most formidable teams.
Cleveland is trying to hold on to the No. 7 play-in spot was within 107-106, when Bickerstaff felt that Garland had drawn contact from Embiid. However, Embiid missed a layup with 15.2 seconds remaining.
Bickerstaff claimed that Darius was fouled. “He did his job, got to a spot, and was fouled. There was no whistle.
This report was compiled by the Associated Press.