Getty Image / Steven Ferdman
Philadelphia 76ers superstar center Joel Embiid has had to carry a big load for the team the last few years. When he’s on the court, his usage rate is so high and he’s probably more important to his team’s success than any other players in the league.
But, in year’s past, Embiid has battled injuries and worn down as the season has gone on and hasn’t been at his best in the playoffs. He knows that needs to change, and spoke about that on Thursday.
Embiid was limited to just 39 games in the regular season last year after suffering a meniscus injury in early January. He was back in time for the playoffs, but was inconsistent and definitely out of shape against the New York Knicks in the team’s first-round loss in the Eastern Conference Playoffs.
The Sixers made a huge offseason acquisition in the form of Paul George, and after not having enough firepower last year to seriously contend, adding George to Embiid and Tyrese Maxey makes them top-tier contenders once again.
But, Joel Embiid knows that he needs to be healthy and rested for the team to capture its first title in over 40 years. That may mean resting when the 2023 NBA MVP doesn’t want to sometimes.
Joel Embiid on balancing his desire to play with managing his workload:
“They know that if they have to punch me and slap me or take my stuff away from me for me not to get on that court, they’re gonna have to do it.”
Tyrese Maxey interjects: “Oh yeah, that’s me. My job.” pic.twitter.com/HTXUKZ1PtD
— Sam DiGiovanni (@BySamDiGiovanni) October 3, 2024
Now, Embiid and the Sixers just need to follow through on that plan.