From Joel Embiid's aggression as a driver to Paul George's role versatility and late-game heroics, a look back at how the Sixers' two highest-paid players carried the load with Tyrese Maxey out on Friday.

Now 31 and again attempting to work his way back to health, Philadelphia's superstar center is learning what he's still capable of.

Joel Embiid steps up to lead the Philadelphia 76ers past the Indiana Pacers at home on Friday night.

Joel Embiid inched closer to a return to his All-Star form with a 39-point night in a win, and 76ers star Tyrese Maxey loved it.

Philadelphia 76ers coach Nick Nurse evaluates the Joel Embiid and Paul George minutes in their win over the Indiana Pacers.

A younger Embiid would've been motivated by the legend of dominating in return from a three-month basketball hiatus. This Embiid finds value in rhythm, in stacking days.

Joel Embiid grabbed the offensive rebound and, before tumbling to the floor, muscled the put-back through contact and into the basket. And as the 76ers’ center stepped to the line to shoot the and-1 free throw,

Joel Embiid scored 39 points to lead Philadelphia and the Pacers fell apart down the stretch in a 115-105 loss.

“Big Blue,” “The Bombardier from Baton Rouge,” “Bombardier,” “Dixie Dandy” and “Slim.” I can’t think of a much cooler nickname for a scorer than Bombardier. Happy birthday, Bombardier!

Here is the complete injury report for Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers as they take on the Atlanta Hawks on the road on Sunday.