PHILADELPHIA -- The Philadelphia 76ers are struggling this season, sitting at 9-16, which is below expectations for the franchise. This predicament is largely attributed to the limited availability of star center Joel Embiid, who has only played seven out of the 25 games so far. And as it turns out, his absence significantly affects the team's performance.
When Embiid takes the court, the 76ers' style changes dramatically. The pace quickens, and players have to adjust to his presence. Tyrese Maxey, for one, has noted this transition all too well. After scoring consistently against the Charlotte Hornets, Maxey acknowledged the adjustments he had to make when sharing the floor with his teammate.
"I think it was a couple of times I did forget he was out there, so I threw it to him and like went to go cut, and he was standing at the top of the key, like, what are you doing?" Maxey recounted following the Sixers’ recent victory. "It’s great having Jo out there. It’s amazing." His remarks reflect the adjustment to the offensive rhythm when Embiid, who scored 34 points against the Hornets, successfully plays alongside him.
This teamwork has paid off already; during the game against Charlotte, Maxey managed to shoot 4-for-5 from three-point range, crediting his star colleague's heavy gravity on the court for creating open shots. For the Sixers, Embiid’s presence can transform games and open opportunities, which fans hope will smooth the rocky patches of the current season.
Meanwhile, as the injuries pile up this season, the pressures on Embiid continue to mount. He faces not only on-court challenges but also the weight of expectations. The all-star talent endured significant injuries throughout his career, including broken bones, torn ligaments, and even bouts with Bell's palsy. Now, following the latest stint with debilitating head and sinus issues, he’s taken on therapy to help cope with the mental strains of being sidelined.
"It’s kind of hard when you get in those moments where it's hard not to feel bad about yourself," Embiid expressed candidly. "One lesson I learned is to try and stop feeling bad about myself and just live day by day." His experience echoes the journeys of other high-profile athletes who have faced mental health struggles, showcasing how vulnerability is often tightly intertwined with elite performance.
Accompanied by All-Star Tyrese Maxey and nine-time All-Star Paul George this season, Embiid's trio is expected to challenge for Eastern Conference dominance. Unfortunately, they’ve played just two complete games together—a frustration for teammates and fans alike. After the recent win over the Hornets, George noted, "He does make the game so easy... A lot of stuff was just plays we weren't in sync on. We'll get there as we’re on the court more." This sentiment highlights the remaining promise of the team, if they can keep their stars healthy.
The 76ers completed their latest win against the Hornets, which not only boosted their morale but also solidified their record against them at 4-0 this season. Yet, after each promising game, the question continues to loom: what will the potential of the Sixers look like when Embiid is fully healthy and available to play 80 games each year?
Looking forward, Embiid has acknowledged the importance of managing his health. "I just want to improve every day," he said. His commitment to self-care reflects his desire to not only maintain his physical presence but also improve his mental well-being. The team appears poised to center its hopes on Embiid's return to form as they battle through the struggles of the season.
His recent performances suggest he’s determined to find his rhythm again. “It’s all about making the days manageable until I feel close to 100% for the playoffs,” he said. From pushing through pain to rallying support from family, Embiid remains committed to finding balance. “That's what keeps me going,” he added. “You can never get enough of the support. It’s hard to feel bad about yourself when you’ve got such good people around you.”
Through ups and downs, the dynamic between Maxey and Embiid remains pivotal for the team’s success moving forward. Their interplay, defined by mutual support, showcases the potential for exciting basketball—if they can remain healthy and vibrant. The city of Philadelphia is hopeful as they eye the rest of the season, eager for more notable performances from their roster, particularly from Embiid.
