Joel Embiid SAVING The 76ers FIRES UP Gil's Arena

Joel Embiid, despite returning from an emergency appendectomy, demonstrated MVP-level dominance in Game 5 against the Celtics, scoring 31 of his 33 points in the final three quarters. However, his playoff history shows a pattern of underperformance in critical Game 7s, with an 0-3 record and poor shooting percentages, leading to questions about his ability to consistently elevate his team to conference finals.

Embiid had 33 points and 8 assists in 39 minutes in Game 5, scoring 31 in the final three quarters. He is 30-31 in playoff games, 0-5 in semifinals, and 0-3 in Game 7s, with notable poor performances (e.g., 8 turnovers vs. Hawks, 6/18 FG vs. Raptors, 5/18 FG vs. Celtics).

The Celtics' strategy heavily relies on three-point shooting, averaging nearly 47 attempts per game in the postseason. While effective when hot (42% in wins), this strategy makes them vulnerable to extreme cold spells (27% in losses), as seen in Game 5 where they shot 3 for 22 in the fourth quarter and missed their last 16 field goal attempts, allowing the 76ers to rally.

Celtics shot 3 for 22 in the fourth quarter of Game 5, missing their last 16 field goal attempts. They average 47 three-point attempts, shooting 42% in wins and 27% in losses. Tatum and Brown combined for 0 for 8 with only two points in the final frame.

Jalen Brunson is the clear offensive leader for the Knicks, capable of extraordinary performances that rally the team. His ability to score efficiently and carry the offense, especially in crucial home games, is paramount. However, this reliance highlights a perceived lack of consistent aggression from Karl-Anthony Towns, who often defers, making the team's offensive flow dependent on Brunson's individual brilliance.

Brunson exploded for 39 points and 8 assists on 15 for 23 shooting in Game 5. He took 23 shots, while the next highest on the team was 8 (Josh Hart and OG Anunoby), and Karl-Anthony Towns took only 7 shots.

Victor Wembanyama's unique blend of size, defensive prowess, and versatile offensive skills (including three-point shooting and passing) has led to him being called the 'first perfect big man.' While his defensive impact is undeniable and historic, some argue his current game still exhibits 'goofiness' and lacks the physical dominance in the post that traditional big men like Shaq or Embiid possess, suggesting he needs to gain more weight and refine his post-game to fully realize his potential.

Wembanyama had 17 points, 14 rebounds, and 6 blocks in Game 5, becoming the first player since Hakeem Olajuwon in 1997 with consecutive games of 10+ rebounds and 6+ blocks. He is the only player in a group with David Robinson, Alonzo Mourning, and Tim Duncan to hit threes in his first four playoff games. Shaq called him the 'first perfect big man.'