Joel Embiid (and his mask) returned Friday as the Sixers played with their food for a while before eventually beating the shorthanded Hornets.

The Sixers shouldn’t tank the rest of the 2024-25 season — and even if they wanted to, it’s not very practical.

Paul George and Tyrese Maxey both scored 30-plus points and the Sixers were able to get a much-needed road win in Charlotte Monday night.

The Sixers certainly didn’t make it easy, blowing a lead that was as large as 19, but Paul George dropped 29 as they finally won consecutive games vs. the Hornets.

The Sixers blew a 16-point lead and were forced to play overtime, but rookie Jared McCain bailed them out again and again in a desperately needed win over the Hornets Sunday.