Game One is now in the books as the Sixers suffered a 128-124 loss to the Atlanta Hawks. The Hawks were exactly as expected and a 35-point performance and barrage of other three-pointers ultimately sunk the Sixers’ chances. Against what is usually a stingy Philadelphia defense, the Hawks made it look easy to make the extra pass and secure an open shot.
While he was game-time decision leading right up until game-time, Joel Embiid was able to suit up and started for the Sixers. This loss was far from on his shoulders as there were stretches of the game were Embiid was willing the Sixers to stay in.