The Philadelphia 76ers entered the season as the likeliest candidate to take down the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference, at least on paper.
Now, they’re 2-8 after ten games.
All of their Big 3, even Tyrese Maxey, have missed time this season.
Joel Embiid finally made his season debut in the NBA Emirates Cup in a loss to the New York Knicks on Tuesday night.
He had previously claimed that he was done playing back-to-backs, “probably” for the remainder of his career.
Even so, it seems like he’s changed his mind.
As Legion Hoops reported (via David Aldridge and James L. Edwards), the former MVP wants to suit up on Wednesday night to face the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Joel Embiid wants to play tonight vs. Cavs, despite saying he’ll no longer play in back-to-back’s:
“It’s not my decision. If I can, I’ll be out there.”
(via @davidaldridgedc, @JLEdwardsIII) pic.twitter.com/l1w4QOWN0T
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) November 13, 2024
He argued that if it were up to him, he’d definitely play, but it’s not his decision.
Embiid’s conditioning seemed to be an issue in his first game back.
He had to check himself out of the game early in the first quarter, and he needs more time to get his legs back under him.
Even so, he still managed to foul-bait Karl-Anthony Towns multiple times and got to the free-throw line eight times.
Embiid finished the game with 13 points, three rebounds, five assists, and one block.
He missed nine of his 11 shots, including four of five three-pointers.
Still, the Sixers are a much better team when he’s out there.
With the losses piling up, they may abandon their initial plan and roll with their star big man.
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Fans React To Darius Garland’s Big Performance On Monday
