Over the past few years, Joel Embiid, the standout player for the Philadelphia 76ers, has encountered numerous health problems. As the 76ers aim to manage his well-being in preparation for the playoffs, Embiid appears to have his own agenda for the regular season.
In a recent interview with ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, Embiid disclosed that he has no intentions of playing in back-to-back games for the remainder of his basketball career.
“If I had to guess, I would probably never play back-to-backs the rest of my career,” Embiid said to Bontemps of ESPN.
The 76ers’ president of basketball operations, Daryl Morey, has a similar plan for Embiid. Morey stated, “We’re going to be smart about it. Part of being smart about it is having both Paul and Joel probably not play many back-to-backs, if any.”
The 76ers are facing higher expectations after signing star player Paul George in the offseason. Morey and Embiid’s Statements indicate that the main concern for the 76ers is George and Embiid’s availability during the playoffs.
Embiid Reflects On His Mindset Throughout Injury Challenges
Embiid suffered a s left knee injury during a game against the Golden State Warriors on February 1, 2024. This resulted in him missing multiple games and having to wear a brace on his left knee. Although Embiid feels uncomfortable wearing the brace, he mentioned that it won’t stop him from dominating the league.
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“It’s the right thing to do, and the right thing that’s going to give me the support for the rest of my career. For me, it’s a mental thing. I hated it. [But] I started telling myself, ‘OK, I have to do it, that’s the only way they’re going to let me play. …It might not look as good as it used to, with the jab or the pull-up and all that stuff, but it’ll still work.” Embiid said to Bontemps of ESPN.
Embiid experienced Bell’s palsy, a neurological disorder, during last season’s playoffs. Despite this, he averaged 33.0 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists in 6 games during the 2024 playoffs. As the new NBA preseason gets underway, fans are eagerly anticipating Embiid’s continued good health throughout the season.
Also Read: Joel Embiid Signs A Massive Three-Year Contract Extension With 76ers
