Nicolas Batum scored 20 points and 5 rebounds for the Philadelphia 76ers in the play-in against the Miami Heat. "Batman" largely contributed to the close victory of his teammates (105-104) which guaranteed them a place in the first round of the playoffs against the New York Knicks.
The French international especially shone in the second half, after seeing Miami go in front at the break (51-39), due in particular to an out-of-form Joel Embiid (10 points and 2/8 shooting at this point). time). "I think I looked a little too hard for Joel at first. And afterwards, I took my responsibilities," explained Batum after the meeting. 'He is the reason why we won, he took big shots and defensively, he was even better,' admitted the American pivot. The 76ers will need an equally efficient Batum if they want to overcome the obstacle of the New York Knicks, 2nd in the regular season, from April 20.