Sixers-Raptors observations: Joel Embiid’s constant issues, Kawhi Leonard’s continued domination

The Toronto Raptors defeated the 76ers, 101-96, in Game 4 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series Sunday at the Wells Fargo Center.

Here are some observations and best and worst awards:

- Joel Embiid can’t shake health distractions. This time, the two-time All-Star center was hampered with a cold and headache and had to receive an I.V. in the morning. He dealt with gastroenteritis in Game 2 and has been bothered by left-knee tendinitis all season. He even appeared to aggravate his knee on his first of only two made baskets Sunday.

- Ben Simmons showed some improvement from the foul line late in the regular season. However, he’s been unable to keep the momentum going in the playoffs. The Sixers point guard is 0-for-2 from the foul line in the conference semifinal series and 14-for-27 overall (51.8 percent) in the postseason. That’s worse than last year’s postseason, when he shot 70.6 percent.

- Kawhi Leonard continues to remind Sixers fans of why the franchise tried desperately to trade for the small forward last summer. After scoring 39 points Sunday, he’s averaging 38 with ease in the series. He had 45 points in Game 1, 35 in Game 2, and 33 in Game 3.

- Best performance: This was easy. Leonard scored his points on 13-for-20 shooting, including 5-for-7 on three-pointers. He also finished with a game-high 14 rebounds to go with five assists.

- Worst performance: This goes to Sixers backup center Greg Monroe. He had more fouls (three) than points (two).

- Best defensive performance: Even though Embiid was subpar on offense, he had a game-high two blocks as well as two steals.

- Worst statistic: This goes to the Sixers’ shooting just 23.8 percent in the fourth quarter.

- Best statistic: I have to give this to Leonard for making 71.4 percent of his three-pointers.