The Philadelphia 76ers’ 2024-25 NBA season has been anything but smooth. A team that entered the season with championship aspirations now finds itself tied for the worst record in the league at 2-11. Injuries, chemistry issues, and underwhelming performances have plagued the Sixers, forcing the team to look hard in the mirror. Following a 106-89 loss to the Miami Heat on Monday, a crucial team meeting in Miami shed light on the roster’s frustrations.
The meeting, reportedly called by veteran guard Kyle Lowry, became an open forum for players to voice concerns. Rising star Tyrese Maxey raised an important issue, addressing Joel Embiid’s habit of being late to team activities. Maxey stressed that Embiid’s lateness affects everyone, including teammates and coaches, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Tyrese Maxey reportedly called out Joel Embiid for always being late 😳, per @ShamsCharania
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 19, 2024
“In the meeting, Maxey challenged Embiid to be on time to team activities, calling out the former league MVP about being late ‘for everything’ and how it impacts the locker room, from… pic.twitter.com/ZHpadOGtRI
“Tyrese loves Big Fella’, but this is the elephant in the room,” someone who attended the meeting shared. Despite the blunt nature of the feedback, Embiid reportedly took it well. He also expressed his frustrations, admitting he felt “confused about what the 76ers are trying to accomplish on the court.” This confusion mirrors the team’s overall struggles, as they currently rank last in the league in offensive efficiency.
Maxey’s leadership has been evident even while sidelined with a hamstring injury. Many in the organization see him as a young leader, and his decision to hold Embiid accountable shows his dedication to the team. With Maxey expected to return soon, the Sixers will finally have the chance to see him, Embiid, and offseason acquisition Paul George play together—a combination that hasn’t been possible yet this season due to injuries and absences.
Tyrese Maxey And Joel Embiid Focus On Team Dynamics And Improvement
The Sixers’ meeting went beyond individual accountability and player relationships, such as those between Maxey and Embiid. Players reportedly asked head coach Nick Nurse to push them harder, while the coaching staff encouraged players to show more focus and commitment during practice. Nurse highlighted the need for offensive improvement, explaining that injuries and a lack of chemistry have held the team back.
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“There’s a lot of good things happening defensively, even considering we’re playing at such a disadvantage,” Nurse said after Monday’s game. “Offensively, moving the ball, staying with execution… those are things we need to improve on.”
For Embiid, the struggles have been both personal and collective. In just three games this season, he has averaged a career-low 14.7 points on 32.4% shooting, which he admitted feels “extremely rusty.” Despite these challenges, Embiid has shown a willingness to accept feedback and grow, which is a positive sign for a team aiming to turn its season around.
Philadelphia’s preparation to face the Memphis Grizzlies next makes this meeting potentially important. With rookie Jared McCain performing impressively and Maxey’s return on the horizon, there’s still hope for the Sixers to revive their season. However, achieving this will require dedication and accountability from everyone—starting with their leaders.
Also Read: 76ers Star Joel Embiid Claps Back At Recent Criticism That He Doesn’t Want To Play
