PORTLAND, Ore. — Jerami Grant scored 27 points and the Portland Trail Blazers took advantage of reigning NBA MVP Joel Embiid’s absence to beat the Philadelphia 76ers 130-104 on Monday night.
Malcolm Brogdon added 24 points and nine assists for the Blazers, who had lost four of their previous five games. Rookie Scoot Henderson had 22 points.
“I think every time we step out there we’re getting better and better,” said Jabari Walker, who led all players with 12 rebounds. “It’s exciting to see.”
Kelly Oubre Jr. had 25 points for the 76ers, who lost their third straight as Embiid watched from the bench with a sore left knee. Philadelphia was also without Tyrese Maxey.
Matisse Thybulle’s 3-pointer put Portland up 98-78 as Philadelphia struggled without Embiid, who was out for a second consecutive game. At one point the Blazers went on a 19-4 run and led by 31 points in the final quarter.
It was Portland’s largest margin of victory this season — and it came on the second night of a back-to-back. Portland fell to the Bulls 104-96 on Sunday.
“I just think our guys are starting to get some synergy with each other,” Blazers coach Chauncey Billups said. “They’re starting to get to know each other and it’s fun to watch. We just keep talking about moving it, moving it, moving it. I don’t know who’s shot it’s going to be.”
Philadelphia 76ers guard Patrick Beverley, left, dribble past Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons, right, during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Portland, Ore., Monday, Jan. 29, 2024. Credit: AP/Steve Dykes
Embiid, who is averaging 36 points and 11.4 rebounds a game, also sat out of the 76ers’ game against Denver on Saturday. He appeared to injure the knee last Thursday against Indiana.
It was Embiid’s 12th missed game this season. He can only miss five more to remain eligible for the league’s awards, including MVP, which he won last year.
Maxey missed a second straight game because of a sprained left ankle.
“Had…
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