The Philadelphia 76ers ought to think about shutting down middle Joel Embiid for the remainder of the season after his newest harm information.
On Sunday, ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania reported the 76ers, Embiid and medical doctors are contemplating “various choices” on his knee, because the harm has proven little indicators of enchancment.
Embiid has solely performed 19 video games this season and has not regarded like his outdated self. He has averaged 23.8 factors, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per sport. In 39 video games final season, he logged 34.7 PPG, 11 RPG and 5.6 APG.
Embiid, the 2022-23 MVP, not too long ago admitted that his knee remains to be bothering him, and he might have surgical procedure to repair it.
“The way in which I used to be enjoying a 12 months in the past, it is not the way in which I am enjoying proper now. It sucks,” Embiid mentioned, by way of Derek Bodner of PHLY Sports activities. “However I imagine … I most likely want to repair the issue after which I will be again at that degree, however it’s exhausting to have belief whenever you’re not your self. It is robust. You already know you are able to do a lot extra.”
In 2024, Embiid helped Crew USA win a gold medal on the Paris Olympics, despite the fact that he underwent surgical procedure on a torn meniscus in early February. He could have returned too early, contributing to his drop-off this season.
A wholesome Embiid most likely could not carry an underwhelming Philadelphia squad to the NBA Finals anyway. The 76ers are 20-36 and can most likely miss the playoffs.
Tanking with out Embiid might assist Philadelphia. The Sixers’ first-round choose within the 2025 NBA Draft is owed to the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder, however it’s top-six protected.
Letting Embiid sit for the remainder of the season appears smart for Philadelphia.
