Author: Tom Moore, Bucks County Courier Times

Big games by the Philadelphia 76ers’ James Harden and Joel Embiid have turned this into a best-of-three NBA playoff series vs. the Miami Heat.

James Harden had 26 points, nine assists and nine rebounds as the Sixers used a big second half to top the Knicks and move to 3-0 with Harden.

James Harden didn’t disappoint in his first game for Philadelphia, finishing with 27 points and 12 assists in a 133-102 road win over Minnesota.

Doc Rivers responded after an ESPN report cited Ben Simmons’ apparent frustrations with the coach and the Sixers organization.

Joel Embiid was back after missing nine games with COVID-19 that he said resulted in trouble breathing and “headaches worse than a migraine.”

Dealing a disgruntled Charles Barkley didn’t work out so well for the Philadelphia 76ers. That was also the case with Moses Malone and Markelle Fultz.

Philadelphia 76ers forward Tobias Harris is much more assertive and consistent in the NBA playoffs, as evidenced by his numbers across the board.

The top-seeded Sixers are in control of their first-round series with a 3-0 lead, but they aren’t looking past the Wizards.

The death of longtime Temple coach John Chaney on Friday left former players like Mike Vreseswyk reeling.

All-star J.T. Realmuto is seeking a big-money, long-term contract. The Phillies have budget concerns, but two potential suitors signed other catchers.