Joel Embiid’s Uncertain Form: A Cause for Concern in Philadelphia
Introduction
Philadelphia 76ers standout Joel Embiid’s recent struggles have intensified, prompting coach Nick Nurse to bench the former NBA MVP in the final quarter of Saturday’s heart-wrenching loss to the Brooklyn Nets. The 76ers’ valiant comeback attempt from a 17-point deficit ultimately fell short, as Nic Claxton’s buzzer-beating tip-in sealed a 105-103 victory for Brooklyn.
Nurse’s Justification
Nurse defended his decision to keep Embiid on the sidelines, explaining that the players who remained on the court had developed a strong rhythm and feel for the game. "That group was just playing so well together and had good feel for the game at that point, and just wanted to let them roll with it," Nurse told reporters.
Embiid’s Lingering Injuries
Embiid, who has been plagued by various injuries throughout the season, declined to comment after the game. The 28-year-old has openly admitted that his left knee continues to cause him discomfort, a year after undergoing surgery for a torn meniscus.
Impact on Embiid’s Performance
Embiid’s ongoing knee issues have noticeably affected his performance on the court. After signing a lucrative three-year, $193 million contract extension in September, Embiid recently acknowledged that his level of play has diminished since his surgery. "The way I was playing a year ago is not the way I’m playing right now," Embiid said last week after a loss to the Celtics. "I probably need to fix the problem, and then I’ll be back at that level."
Nurse’s Assessment
Saturday’s benching served as further evidence of Embiid’s current struggles. "He’s not himself, we all know that," Nurse said. "He’s not certainly the guy we’re used to seeing play at a super high level. But I commend him for giving us what he can."
Concerns for the 76ers
Embiid’s diminished form is a major concern for the 76ers, who rely heavily on his dominance in the paint. His inability to play at his previous level could significantly hamper their chances of contending for the championship.
Outlook
It remains unclear when Embiid will regain his full fitness and return to his All-NBA form. The 76ers management and medical staff will need to carefully manage his recovery and ensure that his knee is fully healthy before he can fully contribute to the team’s success.
Conclusion
Joel Embiid’s current struggles represent a significant setback for the Philadelphia 76ers. His nagging knee injury and subsequent decline in play have raised concerns about the team’s long-term prospects. Embiid’s recovery and return to form will be crucial for the 76ers’ aspirations of reaching the NBA’s pinnacle.
