Joel Embiid’s recent absence from the Philadelphia 76ers’ lineup due to illness stirred concerns about the team’s performance this season. Despite his late return to the starting lineup on Monday, the 76ers suffered a 106-89 defeat against the Miami Heat, extending their dismal record to 2-11, the worst in the entire NBA.
Following the loss, the team convened for a closed-door meeting where Tyrese Maxey pointedly criticized Embiid for not setting a stronger example for his teammates. While head coach Nick Nurse’s job appears secure for now, the meeting underscored deeper issues within the team.
This season has seen a notable decline in Embiid’s customary dominance. Historically, when on the court, he has propelled the 76ers to significant advantages; however, this year has not reflected that trend. In just three games, the team has been outscored by a staggering 38 points during his playing time, with a drop of 20 points per 100 possessions on offense. Moreover, Embiid has struggled to draw fouls, notably going over 31 minutes without attempting a free throw during the game against the Heat, a rarity in his career.
The alarming statistics and performance might suggest a rough start for Embiid, who mentioned to reporters that he often requires a few games to regain his rhythm. Yet, the 76ers are rapidly running out of time to turn their season around. Historically, teams that start 2-11 face significant challenges in making the playoffs, with only a small percentage succeeding over the years.
On a brighter note, the emergence of rookie point guard Jared McCain has provided a silver lining for the 76ers. Averaging 25.2 points in his last five games and demonstrating impressive shooting from beyond the arc, McCain has quickly become a valuable asset. Coach Nurse has increasingly relied on him as the team navigates a difficult start, with other key players also working on their recoveries.
After the recent defeat, Embiid acknowledged the need for increased urgency within the team. He expressed a desire to adapt his playing style to better contribute to the team’s success amid the challenges they are facing, indicating potential for growth and improvement in the remaining games.
In summary, while the 76ers encounter significant hurdles early in the season, there is hope that players like Embiid will find their footing, and McCain’s emergence may help propel the team forward. As they strive to recover and improve their standing, there remains an opportunity for a turnaround in Philadelphia.