Officials in Florida have pinpointed where they will sink a famous ocean liner that spent nearly three decades docked in Philadelphia. Okaloosa County officials announced Tuesday that the historic liner will be scuttled off the Gulf Coast early next year, creating the world’s largest artificial reef. After being towed south earlier this year, the SS United States now awaits its final voyage. For years, the ship was the subject of repeated failed restoration efforts while docked indefinitely at the Camden Waterfront. With a court order pressuring stewards to relocate the ship, it was sold to the Florida county and later taken to Mobile, Alabama. The ocean liner’s February departure created a spectacle, luring thousands to the shores of the Delaware River to watch the ship pass by. A sinking date was not announced in Okaloosa County’s latest update on the project. Originally, officials expected to scuttle the ocean liner by the end of the year. County officials said it will be sunk about 22 nautical miles southwest of Destin East Pass and 32 nautical miles southeast of Pensacola Pass. The SS United States remains docked in Alabama as workers prepare it for deployment. Okaloosa County purchased the ship last year for about $1 million, part of a roughly $10 million project. The project includes $1. 5 million in contributions from Pensacola tourism officials and Florida’s chapter of the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA). Visit Pensacola, a marketing organization for Pensacola, Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key, is contributing $1 million, while the CCA provides the remaining $500,000, Okaloosa officials said. “This collaboration will foster amazing adventures for generations of visitors and create a tourism economy that will benefit the state and the entire Northwest Florida region,” Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon said in a statement. “The contributions will be used for the deployment of the SS United States as an artificial reef, with a portion being used for a multi-year marketing campaign to promote the SS United States as a worldwide premier diving destination,” he added.
https://www.nj.com/news/2025/11/thousands-watched-this-ship-leave-philadelphia-it-is-about-to-get-a-surprising-second-life.html
Tag Archives: philadelphia
Nuggets Make Final Nikola Jokic Decision vs Timberwolves
Coming off his big game against the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday, Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic was downgraded on the injury report for Saturday’s matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves. According to the official NBA injury report, Jokic is dealing with a left wrist sprain. The Nuggets initially listed him as questionable when they revealed his status on Friday night.
### Nuggets Reveal Nikola Jokic’s Playing Status vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
Although the Nuggets left the door open for a potential night off for Jokic, the veteran center has been officially cleared for action.
When the Nuggets hit the road for a trip that began in Sacramento on November 11, Jokic started the stretch strong with a 35-point, 15-rebound double-double. The Nuggets secured a 122-108 victory over the Kings.
In the following game against the LA Clippers, Jokic logged 33 minutes and once again contributed to a double-double. He scored a season-high 55 points on an impressive 78 percent shooting and pulled down 12 rebounds. The Nuggets won 130-116, extending their winning streak to six games.
The Nuggets are currently on the hunt to become the third team to notch 10 wins in the NBA this season. Their biggest threat at the moment, the Oklahoma City Thunder, holds a 12-1 record, placing them atop the Western Conference.
On the other side of the league, the Detroit Pistons improved to 11-2 after extending their winning streak to nine games with a victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday.
### Jokic Continues MVP-Level Performance
For the Nuggets, Jokic is once again looking like a potential frontrunner for the league’s MVP award. He has won the honor three out of the last five seasons and finished second in the two years he didn’t.
Last year, Jokic averaged 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.8 assists per game. This season, he is putting up 28.8 points per game while shooting 68 percent from the field and 41 percent from three-point range. Additionally, he is pulling down a career-high 13.1 rebounds per game and producing a career-best 10.9 assists per game.
Jokic will get a chance to continue building on another MVP-caliber campaign on Saturday night against Minnesota.
https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nba/nuggets-make-final-nikola-jokic-decision-timberwolves-11054310
Dolphins’ beleaguered defense facing injury issues vs. Buffalo
Miami Dolphins Injury Update and Team News Ahead of Sunday’s Game vs. Buffalo
Defensive Injuries Cloud Dolphins’ Upcoming Matchup
Miami Dolphins cornerback Rasul Douglas (foot/ankle) appears unlikely to play in Sunday’s game against the Buffalo Bills, according to head coach Mike McDaniel. Edge rusher Chop Robinson (concussion) is also expected to miss the game. Both players are projected starters, with Robinson expected to fill the role left by Jaelan Phillips, who was traded to Philadelphia.
The Dolphins’ defense, currently ranked 24th in the league, allowing 343.7 yards per game, could face further challenges depending on the availability of safeties Iffy Melifonwu (thumb/foot) and Ashtyn Davis (quadricep). Additionally, wide receiver and kickoff returner Dee Eskridge (shoulder) is confirmed out for the game.
Douglas, the Dolphins’ most consistent cornerback, sustained his injury during last week’s 28-6 loss to Baltimore. Coach McDaniel said he is preparing “as though he won’t” play but left the door open for a possible return. Should Douglas be sidelined, Ethan Bonner is likely to start in his place.
Similarly, McDaniel noted Robinson is in the same uncertain situation. While “prepared for him not to play,” the coach is not ruling out his participation. If Robinson cannot suit up, veteran Matthew Judon might step into the lineup.
Dolphins’ Defense Faces Tough Test Against Bills
Miami’s defense must contain Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen, the reigning league MVP, and running back James Cook—who attended Miami Central High School and is currently dealing with an ankle injury. The Bills have beaten the Dolphins in seven consecutive games, making Sunday’s contest a critical challenge for Miami.
Tanner Conner May Return Amid Roster Moves
Tight end Tanner Conner was released on Thursday; however, McDaniel hinted there is a strong chance Conner could rejoin the team. “There’s a couple of things at play that we’re working on,” McDaniel stated, suggesting additional roster moves may be forthcoming.
Players Remove Pop-A-Shot and Card Table from Locker Room
On Thursday, Dolphins players decided to remove the Pop-A-Shot arcade-style basketball game and a small card table from their locker room. These had previously been popular gathering spots, and just a few weeks ago, players did not see them as distractions. The shift in opinion led to their removal.
Coach McDaniel was not made aware of this decision beforehand, noting that the locker room is considered the players’ domain. “It was not something that was told to me before it happened, and that’s their space… However they do that, I’m cool with it,” McDaniel explained.
Interestingly, the 2022 Dolphins experienced a rollercoaster relationship with their ping pong table, removing it twice during the season. The team posted a 6-2 record without it in the locker room and 3-7 with it. Coincidentally, last week the Baltimore Ravens also removed their ping pong table before defeating Miami 28-6.
Organizational Insights and Performance Metrics
Champ Kelly Earns High Praise from Dolphins Staff
Offensive coordinator Frank Smith, who previously worked alongside interim general manager Champ Kelly in Chicago (2015-17), spoke highly of Kelly’s leadership and communication skills. Kelly served as director of pro scouting and assistant director of player personnel, while Smith was the tight ends coach.
Smith described Kelly as “high energy, great communicator, proactive, just a very great teammate,” adding, “he wants to be a part of solving problems.” Smith also sees strong potential in Kelly for a full-time general manager role, highlighting his excellent communication and proactive approach.
Defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver echoed this sentiment, calling Kelly “extremely knowledgeable” and “very personable.” Weaver praised Kelly’s consistency and transparency, saying “you know exactly what you’re going to get every day.” Both coaches believe Kelly would excel if appointed GM permanently.
Dolphins Struggle Significantly with Turnover Margin
Coach McDaniel regards turnover margin as one of the most telling NFL statistics. The Dolphins currently hold a minus-8 turnover margin, ranking 31st league-wide. They have committed 15 giveaways—including 11 interceptions and four lost fumbles—while generating only seven takeaways (one interception and six fumble recoveries).
Under McDaniel’s tenure, the turnover margin has been particularly troubling: minus-18 overall. The Dolphins were minus-7 in 2022 (tied 29th), improved to plus-2 in 2023 (tied 12th), and are presently minus-5 in the 2024 season (tied 20th).
Special Teams Coordinator Uses ‘Not Top 10’ Video as Teaching Tool
Special teams coordinator Craig Aukerman produces a weekly “Not Top 10” video featuring notable special teams errors from around the league. This serves both as a form of incentive and a teaching aid to encourage the Dolphins players to avoid similar mistakes.
“On Saturday nights I have what’s called a ‘Not Top 10’ that I show to the players,” Aukerman explained. “It’s just, ‘Hey guys, this is the stuff that’s going on around the league. Don’t be on it.’”
Aukerman and his staff review every special teams snap from each NFL game. If they identify mistakes worthy of highlighting, they include them in these videos. Unfortunately, the Dolphins have appeared multiple times in these segments this season, signaling room for improvement.
Looking Ahead
As the Dolphins prepare to face a strong Bills team without key defensive starters, the injury situation and recent roster developments add to the uncertainty surrounding Sunday’s game. Meanwhile, efforts to improve communication, reduce turnovers, and tighten special teams performance remain priorities for Miami’s staff and players alike.
Frail-looking Joe Biden spotted dining at Virginia Italian eatery ahead of Election Day
Former President Joe Biden was spotted dining out in Northern Virginia on Sunday with his former Pentagon chief, Lloyd Austin.
Biden, 82, was accompanied by Secret Service agents as he made his way through the outdoor patio of Carbonara, an Italian restaurant in Arlington, Virginia. Video posted on social media captured surprised diners gasping and applauding when Biden entered the restaurant.
Inside, Biden was seated across from Austin and an unidentified woman. According to local outlet WUSA9, the former president enjoyed dishes including shrimp wrapped in bacon, capellini pasta, and tiramisu.
Biden recently completed a weeks-long course of radiation therapy for Stage 4 prostate cancer at Penn Medicine Radiation Oncology in Philadelphia. He turns 83 later this month and was diagnosed in May with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that had metastasized to the bone.
During his first public outing since announcing his treatment last month, observers noted that Biden appeared noticeably frail as he headed to the dinner table. Conservative influencer Paul Szypula commented on X, “His walking was lurchy and arms barely swung,” adding that Biden’s appearance was a reminder of media claims about his ability to continue serving.
Other social media users chimed in, with one tweet stating, “Everyone who said this man could serve 4 more years should be endlessly ridiculed.” Another video circulating on X appears to show Biden taking a slight misstep as he entered the restaurant’s patio, prompting a user to comment, “The very definition of FEEBLE! And he almost tripped over NOTHING.”
Former Secret Service agent Rich Staropoli weighed in on X, expressing the opinion that taxpayers should not be responsible for Biden’s security detail. He wrote, “It’s a shame that the Secret Service has to waste resources providing a protective detail to this buffoon. He needs a nurse, not a Secret Service detail. He stole enough money let him pay for his own security.”
Biden’s dinner with Austin comes just days after the House Oversight Committee released a report claiming that members of the former president’s “inner circle” took steps to “meticulously stage-manage” his public appearances, lighten his private workload, and block lawmakers from interacting with him. The report concluded that dozens of Biden’s executive actions “cannot all be deemed his own,” as advisers “went to great lengths to prop up” the 46th president during his physical and cognitive decline in office.
https://nypost.com/2025/11/04/us-news/frail-looking-joe-biden-spotted-dining-at-virginia-italian-eatery-ahead-of-election-day/
Union start fast, extinguish Fire to clinch best-of-3 series
The start couldn’t have been much worse Saturday night for the Chicago Fire. Three first-half goals by the Philadelphia Union, including two by Tai Baribo, and a missed Fire penalty led the Union to a 3-0 win. The top seed in the Eastern Conference clinched the best-of-3 first-round series in just two games.
The Union now await the winner of the series between No. 4 New York City FC and No. 5 Charlotte. Charlotte survived a tense penalty shootout on Saturday to push their series to a decisive Game 3. With the international break approaching, the Union will be off until November 22 or 23.
This win marks just the second road playoff victory in club history for the Philadelphia Union, joining their Game 2 win in the 2023 best-of-3 series in New England. The Union’s all-time road playoff record now stands at 2-5-1. Fortunately for them, they won’t have to leave Subaru Park for the remainder of the postseason.
Saturday’s game was effectively over early on, arguably as soon as Fire goalkeeper Chris Brady was ruled out due to an injury suffered in training during the week. Jeffrey Gal had to step in as Brady’s replacement.
The scoring got underway in the 8th minute when Tai Baribo intercepted a ball off Gal’s foot at the top of the box and calmly rolled it into an open net. Baribo doubled the lead in the 16th minute by heading home a corner delivered by Kai Wagner, beating former teammate Jack Elliott to the spot.
Baribo is now just the second Union player to score multiple goals in a playoff game, joining Jack Elliott who did so in the 2022 MLS Cup final.
The scoreline reached 3-0 in the 31st minute. Milan Iloski pressured Gal while he was in possession, deflecting a pass straight to Bruno Damiani, who one-timed a volley into the open goal. That goal basically sealed the match.
There were a few notable moments despite the one-sided score. In the 29th minute, Jack Elliott was pulled down inside the box by Jovan Lukic, leading to a penalty kick. Brian Gutierrez stepped up to take it but sent a weak shot directly into the arms of Union keeper Andre Blake.
For Blake, this was his first penalty save in open play since the start of the 2023 Leagues Cup and his first stop against an MLS opponent since July 3, 2022.
Three minutes after the missed penalty, Damiani’s goal proved to be the backbreaker for the Fire.
Early in the second half, Gutierrez appeared to have scored when he charged down a Blake goal kick and nudged the ball into the net, but the goal was disallowed as it hit his arm. Referee Jon Freemon immediately waved off the goal.
Besides the goalkeeper change, Chicago Fire adjusted their formation from a back three—used successfully for more than 60 minutes in Game 1—to a back four. Midfielder Romingue Kouame was forced off with an injury in the 26th minute.
The Fire also had to deal with a change in venue. Instead of playing at their usual home of Soldier Field, the team played at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, a stadium they vacated as full-time tenants in 2019 and where they have played only five games this year. Soldier Field was unavailable due to being booked for an international rugby match.
The second half saw little action on the field but was twice interrupted due to homophobic chants from some Fire fans. These incidents required coach Gregg Berhalter and players to appeal directly to the supporters’ section to stop the inappropriate behavior.
https://www.mcall.com/2025/11/01/union-start-fast-extinguish-fire-to-clinch-best-of-3-series/
Giants RB Cam Skattebo’s nasty injury leaves teammates ‘distraught’
Just two weeks after knocking off the Philadelphia Eagles back in New York, the Giants were back in Philly to take on their division rival in the second leg of the season series on Sunday in Week 8.
Unfortunately for New York, things took a turn for the worse in the first half. Running back Cam Skattebo, who has become a fan favorite as well as a key contributor during his rookie season, went down with a gruesome right leg injury after catching a pass in the second quarter.
An Eagles defender fell on the back of his leg, and it quickly became clear that something was seriously wrong. Skattebo’s teammates immediately reacted, dropping to a knee in prayer and showing their concern.
He was carted to the locker room with what is likely a serious, long-term injury. This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/new-york-giants/giants-news-cam-skattebo-nasty-injury-teammates-distraught
Andre Drummond drops ‘sick’ take on 76ers’ aggression to start season
The Philadelphia 76ers have kicked off the new NBA season with back-to-back wins and appear poised for a strong bounce-back campaign. Veteran center Andre Drummond recently credited an intense offseason as a major factor behind the Sixers’ early 2-0 record.
“This offseason has been hard for us,” Drummond told Tony Jones of The Athletic after Philadelphia’s 125-121 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday. “We were scrimmaging without calling fouls. No calls. Guys were just out there, hooping. We’ve been sick of playing against each other. It’s been good to go out there and take some aggression out on other teams.”
The 32-year-old has averaged 3.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 9.5 minutes over the first two games of the season. Drummond has provided valuable relief for the 76ers as the team works through health issues and manages Joel Embiid’s playing time restrictions.
“I’m thrilled that he was able to play so well,” said 76ers head coach Nick Nurse. “And now, I’m kind of wondering why I didn’t use him earlier. I knew that I would eventually have to use him again, because Joel was down to just a few minutes in the second half. I was trying to find some spark, and he gave it. All of a sudden, the rebounding got a lot easier. We got some extra possessions. He made some good contributions.”
Philadelphia has also been bolstered by the impressive play of rookie VJ Edgecombe. After dropping 34 points in the season opener against the Boston Celtics, the 20-year-old followed up with 15 points, six rebounds, and eight assists in the win over Charlotte.
The 76ers will look to build on their hot start when the Orlando Magic visit the City of Brotherly Love on Monday night.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/philadelphia-76ers/76ers-news-andre-drummond-take-phillys-aggression-start-season
Television and radio – Oct. 26, 2025
ON THE AIR
Listings are for Spectrum and Hawaiian Telcom analog/digital.
*-premium station. **-retelecast. ***-delayed.
Check your TV guide for latest updates.
TODAY
| Time | TV | Ch | HT | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 a.m. | KHON | 3 | 3 | NFL: 49ers at Texans |
| 7 a.m. | KGMB | 7 | 7 | NFL: Bears at Ravens |
| 10:25 a.m. | KGMB | 7 | 7 | NFL: Cowboys at Broncos |
| 2:20 p.m. | KHNL | 8 | 8 | NFL: Packers at Steelers |
| 8 a.m. | KHNL | 8 | 8 | Auto Racing: NASCAR Cup Xfinity 500 |
| 8:30 a.m. | KITV | 4 | 4 | Formula One Mexico City Grand Prix |
| 3 p.m. | SPCSN | 23/218 | 69 | Basketball: NBA Lakers at Kings |
| 3 p.m. | FCSNSC | 31/228 | 82* | Basketball: NBA Trail Blazers at Clippers |
| 1 p.m. | ESPN2 | NA/224 | 74 | College Men’s Basketball, Exhibition: Duke at Tennessee |
| Midnight | GOLF | 30/216 | 86 | Golf: DP Genesis Championship*** |
| Midnight | ESPN2 | NA/224 | 74 | Golf: Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship (cont.) |
| 7:30 a.m. | GOLF | 30/216 | 86 | Champions: Simmons Bank Championship |
| 10:30 a.m. | GOLF | 30/216 | 86 | PGA: Bank Of Utah Championship |
| 7 a.m. | NHLN | NA/240 | 93* | Hockey: NHL Avalanche at Devils |
| 1 p.m. | FDSW | 20/226 | 81* | Hockey: Kings at Blackhawks |
| 7 a.m. | TENNIS | NA/243 | 84* | Pickleball: PPA Las Vegas, Championship Sunday |
| 11 a.m. | ESPN2 | NA/224 | 74 | Pickleball: PPA Las Vegas, Championship Sunday |
| 2 a.m. | CBSSN | NA/247 | 83 | Soccer: Scottish Hearts vs. Celtic |
| 3:55 a.m. | FSP | NA/231* | NA | Soccer: Italian Calcio Padova vs. Juve Stabia |
| 4 a.m. | CBSSN | NA/247 | 83 | Soccer: Italian Sassuolo vs. Roma |
| 4 a.m. | USA | 29/555 | 123 | Soccer: English Aston Villa vs. Manchester City |
| 5 a.m. | ESPN2 | NA/224 | 74 | Soccer: Spanish Real Madrid vs. Barcelona |
| 6:15 a.m. | BEIN | NA/229 | NA | Soccer: French Rennes vs. Nice |
| 6:30 a.m. | USA | 29/555 | 123 | Soccer: English Everton vs. Tottenham Hotspur |
| 8 a.m. | FS2 | NA/241 | 76* | Soccer: Canadian Forge vs. Atletico Ottawa |
| 9:45 a.m. | BEIN | NA/229 | NA | Soccer: French Olympique Lyonnais vs. Strasbourg |
| 10 a.m. | TNT | 33/553 | 125 | Women’s Friendly: United States vs. Portugal |
| 11:30 a.m. | FS1 | NA/214 | 75 | MLS Playoffs: Philadelphia Union vs. Chicago |
| 3 a.m. | TENNIS | NA/243 | 84* | Tennis: ATP Basel, Vienna finals |
| 5 p.m. | TENNIS | NA/243 | 84* | Tennis: ATP Paris; WTA Jiujiang, Hong Kong, Chennai |
| 6 a.m. | ACC | NA/251 | 261 | Volleyball: College Women Stanford at Georgia Tech |
| 7 a.m. | SEC | NA/220 | 262* | Volleyball: College Women Auburn at Oklahoma |
| 7 a.m. | ESPN | NA/222 | 70 | Volleyball: College Women Florida at Arkansas |
| 7 a.m. | BIGTEN | NA/248 | 79* | Volleyball: College Women Rutgers at Iowa |
| 9 a.m. | ESPN | NA/222 | 70 | Volleyball: College Women Louisville at North Carolina |
MONDAY
| Time | TV | Ch | HT | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 p.m. | KHON | 3 | 3 | MLB World Series Game 3: Blue Jays at Dodgers |
| 4:30 p.m. | SPCSN | 23/218 | 69 | NBA: Trail Blazers at Lakers |
| 3 p.m. | ESPNU | NA/221 | 73 | College Men’s Basketball: Arkansas at Memphis |
| 12:30 p.m. | ESPNU | NA/221 | 73 | College Women’s Basketball: Vanderbilt at Memphis |
| 2:15 p.m. | KITV | 4 | 4 | NFL: Commanders at Chiefs |
| 2:15 p.m. | ESPN | NA/222 | 70 | NFL: Commanders at Chiefs |
| 2:15 p.m. | ESPN2 | NA/224 | 74 | NFL: Commanders at Chiefs (Peyton and Eli) |
| 9 a.m. | GOLF | 30/216 | 86 | Golf: College East Lake Cup |
| 1 p.m. | NHLN | NA/240 | 93* | Hockey: NHL Blues at Penguins |
| 6:55 a.m. | BEIN | NA/229 | NA | Soccer: Turkish Gazisehir Gaziantep vs. Fenerbahce |
| 12:30 p.m. | FS1 | NA/214 | 75 | MLS Playoffs: Cincinnati vs. Columbus |
| 3 p.m. | FS1 | NA/214 | 75 | MLS Playoffs: Minnesota United vs. Seattle |
| Midnight | TENNIS | NA/243 | 84* | Tennis: ATP Paris; WTA Jiujiang, Hong Kong, Chennai |
| 5 p.m. | TENNIS | NA/243 | 84* | Tennis: ATP Paris; WTA Jiujiang, Hong Kong, Chennai |
RADIO
| Time | Station | Program |
|---|---|---|
| 7 a.m. | 92.7 FM / 1420 AM | NFL: Bills at Panthers |
| 7 a.m. | 1500 AM | NFL: 49ers at Texans |
| 7 a.m. | 990 AM | NFL: Dolphins at Falcons |
| 10:05 a.m. | 1500 AM | NFL: Buccaneers at Saints |
| 10:25 a.m. | 92.7 FM / 1420 AM | NFL: Titans at Colts |
| 2:20 p.m. | 1500 AM | NFL: Packers at Steelers |
| 3 p.m. | 990 AM | NBA: Lakers at Kings |
| 5 p.m. | 92.7 FM / 1420 AM | Men’s Basketball: Chaminade at Hawaii (exhibition) |
| 2 p.m. | 92.7 FM / 1420 AM | MLB World Series, Game 3: Blue Jays at Dodgers |
| 2:15 p.m. | 1500 AM | NFL: Commanders at Chiefs |
| 4:30 p.m. | 990 AM | NBA: Trail Blazers at Lakers |
https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/26/sports/television-and-radio-oct-26-2025/
Philadelphia 76ers Already Making ‘Silly’ Excuses for Joel Embiid
In their opening game of the season, the Philadelphia 76ers secured a much-needed victory over the Boston Celtics. After a disappointing campaign last year, the 76ers were desperate to start this season on the right foot. Thanks to stellar performances from VJ Edgecombe and Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia began the year with a promising 1-0 record.
However, the game’s spotlight on Joel Embiid was less encouraging. The star center made only one of his nine shots, finishing with just four points in 20 minutes of play. Still managing his workload as he recovers from a lingering leg injury, Embiid appeared to be a shadow of his usual dominant self.
Despite earning $55.2 million this season, the 76ers are not overly concerned about his slow start—for now.
### Philadelphia 76ers Make Excuses for Joel Embiid
Embiid was initially not expected to play on opening night. Having missed the majority of the preseason, it seemed he was rushed back into action prematurely. Many argue it might have been wiser to allow him to fully recover, especially considering the team is currently attributing his poor performance to injury and “rust.”
Even after a lackluster outing, Embiid still received some praise. Head coach Nick Nurse said, “I’m super happy he was out there. I think that he played good. I know that’s going to sound silly, one for nine. He just didn’t shoot it very good. I thought he transferred the ball good. I thought he made some good decisions. I thought he took good shots. I thought he protected the rim.”
While Nurse may be content with Embiid’s effort, the numbers tell a different story. Embiid recorded a plus/minus of -16, which is rare in a winning effort. Though he avoided turnovers, his shooting was undeniably poor. Defensively, his impact was minimal—the Celtics shot 46.2% when he was on the floor and 47.3% when he was off, a negligible difference.
Despite the subpar performance, Nurse quickly offered excuses. “He hasn’t done much, right?” the coach remarked. “He’s kind of played a scrimmage and a preseason game, and I think there’s some rust there, but I thought he was moving good and made good decisions, which is really positive.”
### Philadelphia 76ers Need Embiid at His Best
Joel Embiid remains one of the greatest players in Sixers history. When healthy, his dominance is unquestionable. Yet, despite his stardom, the 76ers have never advanced past the second round of the playoffs, even while sharing the court with elite talent.
This season, the 76ers are fully committed to Maxey, Embiid, and Paul George. With the addition of Edgecombe, after just one game, Philadelphia looks poised to be among the NBA’s top teams. They have always been competitive but have yet to take that crucial next step toward championship contention.
The hope is that Embiid will soon regain his full form and lead the team to greater success in the months ahead.
https://heavy.com/sports/nba/philadelphia-76ers/joel-embiid-injury-news-nick-nurse/
Giants veterans tell Jaxson Dart to ‘stick close’ in Philadelphia debut
The New York Giants face one of their most important games of the season in Week 8. New York heads to Philadelphia with a chance to sweep their division rival in front of the Eagles’ home crowd.
Giants veterans are making sure that rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart is ready for his first road game in Philadelphia. Giants receiver Darius Slayton warned that Dart is about to receive some hate from Eagles fans this weekend.
“Yeah, I mean, if he didn’t have any haters, he’ll find where they all live,’’ Slayton said, as reported by Paul Schwartz of The New York Post. “He’s about to get introduced to all of ’em.’’
Tight end Daniel Bellinger also advised Dart to “stick close” to his teammates when playing in Philly. “You know you got to stick close to your brothers in the locker room, just kind of stay as tight as one group because that team and that fan base, they’re going to get a little gritty on the sidelines,’’ Bellinger added. “I would tell him, ‘Listen, focus on you, focus on the team and stick together and not worry about the outside noise.’”
The Giants at Eagles matchup is expected to be one of the best games on the Week 8 slate.
### Jaxson Dart Looking Forward to Playing the Villain in Philadelphia
Despite the warnings from New York’s veterans about the hostile environment, Dart is undeterred. The rookie quarterback expressed excitement about taking in the “hostility” when playing in Philly this Sunday.
“Yeah it’s going to be intense for sure,” Dart said on Wednesday, according to ESPN’s Jordan Raanan. “I can’t wait to go out there and compete and kind of feel like the hostility in the air. The rivalry between the two organizations—it’s going to be really cool.”
Dart also admitted he is looking forward to embracing the villain role this weekend in Philadelphia.
“Yeah I think a little bit,” Dart concluded. “I think anybody finds it enjoyable when you’re able to win games on the road. That’s something that we haven’t done yet, so we’re still chasing that and I’m just excited for the environment.”
Now, the question becomes whether Dart will end up eating his words.
The Giants at Eagles game kicks off at 1 PM ET on Sunday.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/new-york-giants/giants-news-ny-veterans-jaxson-dart-stick-close-philadelphia-debut