Because the 2024-25 NBA season will get going, two Philadelphia 76ers stars discover themselves watching from the sidelines.
Joel Embiid’s ongoing left knee points and Paul George’s bone bruise have saved each veterans off the court docket.
For Embiid, his absence provides one other chapter to a profession marked by spectacular play together with frequent damage setbacks.
Whereas followers develop stressed together with his delayed return, former NBA participant Joakim Noah just lately got here to his protection.
“Joel Embiid wants to be out there. And just the workload is too much. He goes for MVP, he gets the MVP, well, he’s on one leg at the start of playoffs,” Noah stated, by way of The Younger Man And The Three. “That’s a real question. As the owner of the Sixers, I’m having that conversation with my star player. ‘What do we do to keep you healthy so that you’re playing your best basketball in June?’”
“Trust me, Joel Embiid wants to be out there. And it’s just the workload is too much. He goes for MVP, he gets the MVP, well he’s on one leg at the start of the playoffs.” — @JoakimNoah on load administration within the NBA. pic.twitter.com/dYAVxq3EtV
— TheYoungManAndTheThree (@OldManAndThree) November 1, 2024
Noah, whose personal profession was lower brief by accidents, highlighted a brand new phenomenon within the league: star gamers starting the season with DNPs.
Drawing from private expertise, he emphasised the significance of frank discussions about participant well being and longevity.
Final season’s playoffs function a stark reminder of the toll on Embiid’s physique, as he battled by vital ache.
For the 76ers to interrupt their second-round playoff ceiling — a barrier they’ve hit regardless of seven consecutive postseason appearances — these conversations about participant administration are essential.
The offseason acquisition of George to play alongside Embiid and Tyrese Maxey alerts their championship ambitions.
The trio, when wholesome, may place the 76ers because the East’s strongest challenger to the defending champion Boston Celtics.
Whereas the present cautious strategy with Embiid may draw criticism, it may show very important for the group’s long-term success.
In spite of everything, a completely wholesome Embiid within the playoffs may very well be the difference-maker the 76ers have been looking for.
NEXT:
Paul George Reveals What Is Holding Him Again From Return
